FUKUSHIMA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Fukushima prefectural government announces the conclusion of a 'Memorial event to commemorate revitalization of Fukushima,' held on March 11, 2014 on the third anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake. At this event individuals and organizations from within and outside of Fukushima prefecture performed a variety of events including the "Great East Japan Earthquake Revitalization Memorial Ceremony," "Fukushima Concert: Sounds of Revitalization," and "Candle Night: 'Lights of Hope'."
Great East Japan Earthquake Revitalization Memorial Ceremony
At the Fukushima Prefecture Cultural Center in Fukushima-city participants offered a silent prayer at precisely 2:46 pm, coinciding with the time when the earthquake struck. This was followed by the Fukushima governor Sato Yuhei, reading aloud poems of remembrance composed by participants. In the latter half of the ceremony, Gagaku master Togi Hideki performed a memorial musical performance using ancient Japanese instruments. Gagaku is a type of Japanese classical music that has been performed at the Imperial Court for more than a millennium. In addition to mourning for those who lost their lives during the earthquake, a feeling of renewed new resolution towards revitalization was prevalent in the participants.
Fukushima concert: Sounds of Revitalization
In the following concert event, "Fukushima concert: Sounds of Revitalization," Togi Hideki, pianist Nishimura Yukie, and vocalist Oshima Hanako were joined by scores of children and young people from across the Fukushima region who unified as one to express their desire for Fukushima's revitalization. This gathering included volunteers from the orchestra of Fukushima University, the Aizu High School choir, and the Claps Cheerleaders. The venue was literally wrapped in the sounds of revitalization.
Candle Night: 'Lights of Hope'
"Candle Night: 'Lights of Hope'" events produced by candle artist 'Candle JUNE' were held. These events expressed the unique characteristics of each region in every venue in which these events were held around Fukushima prefecture. They were wondrous events in which many people could be seen offering prayers.
March 11th was a day marked by a myriad of people keeping the memory of the disaster alive and sharing the new resolution towards revitalization. Their wishes are a driving force in revitalization. We hope this shining beacon of hope drives people’s steps to the future.