In the wake of the devastating earthquake and tsunami which struck north-eastern Japan on 11 March, compounded by the subsequent problems stemming from the disaster, the region was in great need of upliftment.  It was therefore decided as long ago as 26 April that the famous annual Tanabata Festival (Star Festival) would go ahead as usual, with the memorable theme of 'Recovery and Remembrance'.  This decision galvanized business people and other citizens associated with the main commercial area of the city. Although still struggling with the aftermath of the catastrophe, they lost no time in putting up the traditional colourful decorations in a bid to show how their community could flourish in adversity.

The Festival took place over the three days of 6 – 8 August.  Words of encouragement and support, including around 25,000 personal prayers on colourful strips of paper, as well as numerous origami cranes, were received from various parts of Japan and around the world.  Displayed on the grassy strip in the centre of the main street, Jozenji-dori, they attracted the keen attention of the throngs of visitors. The event featured Tanabata craft lectures and collections of personal prayers on the internet.  Moreover, around 80,000 of the city’s schoolchildren worked together to produce decorations.  While the Tanabata Festival traditionally provides a means for people to convey their personal supplications to the stars, the hallmark of this year’s event was its focus on 'Recovery and Remembrance'. 

Much goodwill was generated by the Festival.  The warm-hearted participation of so many people from far and wide will surely give impetus to the process of revival and rebirth that is under way in the region.

SENDAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY