Ten years before the Great East Japan Earthquake, Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress visited the disaster-stricken areas of Iwate Prefecture online and talked with the victims.
This was the 10th anniversary of the earthquake, and was realized with the strong hope of Their Majesties. It was held on the afternoon of the 4th, connecting the Akasaka Imperial Residence where you live and the site via the Internet.
Their Majesties first received an explanation about the reconstruction situation from Governor Tasso of Iwate Prefecture, and then talked with the people affected by the disaster in Rikuzentakata City.
In this, the 57-year-old woman who lost her eldest son in the tsunami and then published a picture book to leave memories and lessons of the earthquake, said Her Majesty the Emperor, "It was really disappointing that my eldest son was lost." When she was spoken to, the Empress said, "I think it was really hard for me as a mother. Among them, I think it was strong that I started to move for posterity for other people." It was.
In addition, the 53-year-old man who rebuilt his life after having been evacuated with his wife and two children after his home was completely destroyed by the tsunami, said His Majesty the Emperor, "I think I have had a hard time until today. Is it okay for your child's mental problems? "
After that, Their Majesties also talked with the people who were affected by the disaster in Kamaishi City.
Among them, a 25-year-old woman who was in the third year of junior high school at the time of the earthquake and now works at a facility for tsunami transmission and disaster prevention learning said, "Watching over the child as one of the community like an adult who helped at that time. I want to be an adult who helps, "he said.
Finally, His Majesty the Emperor said, "I think there will be some difficulties in the future," and then said, "I pray for the further development of the town."
Their Majesties will visit the disaster-stricken areas of Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures online, and will also attend a government-sponsored memorial service on the 11th of this month, where Their Majesties will speak their words.