JET Study Tour Feb,2014

　The 3^rd Study Tour was held over the weekend of February 22^nd and 23^rd.  On the 1^st StudyTour we visited the Aizu and Kitakata areas, and on the second we visited the Iwaki area. This time we traveled to the Soma area.

　Similar to the previous tours, we had not only the chance to learn about the effects of the disaster on Fukushima Prefecture, and the recovery efforts being made, but also had the chance to personally experience the rich history, culture, and nature of Fukushima, and enjoy it’s delicious foods.

　At the Decontamination Information Plaza in Fukushima City, we learned about the effects of radiation, and how the decontamination process works. Afterwards, moving to Soma, we learned about the trial fishing operations being carried out by the Matsukawaura Fishing Cooperative.

　Traveling through the Odaka District, which was struck by the tsunami and directly affected by the nuclear power plant accident, we were all left at a loss for words, and were given an idea of the sheer scale of the disaster, and the impact it has had on the lives of local people.

　At Minami Soma Agripark, we were introduced to one of Fukushima’s many projects aimed to implement the use of renewable energy throughout the prefecture.

　Also through visiting Soma Nakamura Shrine, the Daihisan Buddhist Stone statues, and the famous Hyakushaku Kannon(‘Great Buddha) we were given the chance to enjoy the rich history and culture Soma has to offer. Finally we were all able to enjoy Fukushima’s wonderful food including delicious seafood lunches and also Strawberry picking throughout the tour. Over two days we managed to travel around both Soma and Minamisoma and at the end of the tour we were left hungry for more, promising each other to return in the summer to see the famous ‘Soma no maoi’(Link).

　From now on we would like to introduce more of the tour through articles and messages written by tour participants. (The schedule of the tour can be found below)