Life goes on

January 2, 2014

Fukushima survivors celebrate coming of age

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20140102_20.html

Young men and women who fled a village in Fukushima Prefecture in northeastern Japan nearly 3 years ago celebrated their "Coming-of-Age Day" on Thursday.

The former residents of Katsurao have held the ceremony outside the village since they left their homes, which are close to the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

13 new adults held a moment of silence to pay respect to the victims of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, and those still considered missing.

Village mayor Masahide Matsumoto encouraged them to be proud of their hometown.

Moemi Watanabe represented the new adults. She said they will never forget Katsurao, where nature is abundant.
She added as adults, they will do everything to contribute to society.

Another woman said she felt a sense of maturity as the ceremony unfolded. She said she wants to be a caregiver who can support disadvantaged people.

The residents traditionally hold the ceremony on January 2nd, when young people return from cities to enjoy New Year's Day with their families.

Japan designates January 13th as "Coming-of-Age Day."

Japanese are legally considered adults when they turn 20.