Japan quake-hit community holds traditional festival in hope of lifting spirits
HIKAWA, Kumamoto -- A festival dedicated to praying for children's health and well-being was recently held in this town, which was hit by an earthquak
HIKAWA, Kumamoto -- A festival aimed at praying for the health and well-being of children was recently held in this town, which was struck by a powerful earthquake on July 28. The community, still on the road to recovery, found solace in the event. On August 24, children joined hands in prayer before a stone jizo Buddhist statue adorned with fruit, manju, and other offerings in the Nishi Amido district.
Sixth grader Narumi Matsuyama expressed her belief that the annual ritual brings reassurance, hoping for a swift return to normalcy. Community council member Yuji Higashi noted the festival's tradition dating back to the Edo period, emphasizing its continued significance. Despite damage from flooding in August 2025 and an earthquake causing building collapse and irrigation disruption, the festival proceeded as scheduled.
Higashi highlighted the importance of maintaining the tradition, especially during challenging times, to provide a small ray of hope for the community.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
