Day 4

Hello everybody in The States! I hope all is well back home, because things are definitely going perfectly here in Kitaibaraki, in the Ibaraki Prefecture in northern Japan. As of now, we have spent three full days in Japan, and two days in Ibaraki. However, we are still left in as much shock and awe, blissfully lost in translation, as we were when we had first arrived. This country is truly a breathtakingly beautiful place; where nature and industry collide, the traditional and the contemporary fit perfectly side by side. Here in Kitaibaraki, we are currently staying at Toshimaya Ryoukan, or traditional Japanese inn and enjoying its many customs, such as bathing in an onsen, or wearing yukata. While some of these traditions take some getting used to, they are all enjoyable and an opportunity to experience Japan more intimately.

For those who don’t know, the Ibaraki Prefecture is one of the regions that have been impacted the most by last year’s 3.11 Great Earthquake and Tsunami. Both the land and its people have been shaken up quite badly, but are still making an impressive effort to recover. However, there are still traces of the disaster that remain. It is painfully clear that the great quake and tsunami has left its mark on Ibaraki, especially upon seeing Otsu Port, and getting a first hand look at how the disaster has altered the region. Often times, we must remind ourselves to be sensitive toward their struggles and their pain.

Today, our group met with Ibaraki’s Fire Chief who discussed with us the extent of the damage dealt by the great quake, as well as measure being taken to recover from the disaster, as well as prevent a future event. He reminds us that people must carry a switch within their hearts that sparks the will to survive. Safety measures only come so far, but when it comes down to it, it’s self-preservation that determines who will still be here to see the next day.

Lastly, we were able to visit the Izura Institute of Arts and Culture to learn from, connect with students and representatives of Ibaraki University. Together, we examined Ibaraki’s cultural assets, such as various works of art and architecture, and how many have been either damaged or destroyed by the disaster. Efforts are currently being made to restore these assets back into their original state.

Overall, our stay in Japan has been surreal, adopting an almost dream-like quality to it. I feel as I have been thrust into a different universe with it’s own rules and manners, and we are just beginning to scratch the surface. There is still so much left here to explore and enjoy. There are eleven days left, and I will be here, enjoying every minute of it. This is Jaison Cabebe, over and out. Stay classy, San Francisco.