Recovery from Great East Japan Earthquake

Over the last 9 years after the Great East Japan Earthquake, Japan has made significant progress on the recovery and reconstruction. People in the disaster-affected areas of Northern Japan (Tohoku region) have rebuilt communities and industries in order to enhance Tohoku’s regional charm.

The Tohoku region has been known as a leading rice-producer of Japan and is home to a vibrant fishing industry. Fruits and vegetables produced in the region are widely appreciated by consumers in Japan and abroad. Following the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant operated by the Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, some countries and regions placed import restrictions on Japanese agricultural, forestry, and fishery products. To ensure food safety and quality, the Japanese government has been conducting rigorous monitoring tests. Through the efforts of explaining the government measures and sharing of scientific data, many of these restrictions have been lifted or eased. Consumers around the world continue to enjoy safe, high-quality products from Japan.
This section provides scientific facts and data on the standards of Japanese food safety regulations and latest information on the reconstruction efforts in the Tohoku region.

1. Facts about the Current Situation in the Tohoku Region

The link provides an overview of recovery in the disaster-affected areas.

2. The Road to Recovery

Tohoku is currently undergoing the second phase of reconstruction. Learn about the long-term reconstruction guidelines and how the region aims to overcome its challenges.

3. Fukushima Revitalization Portal

The Portal created by the Fukushima prefectural government has latest news on the revitalization works and safety of food and water in Fukushima. Available in 10 languages.

4. New Tohoku 2020

The people of Tohoku strive to revive its cities, industries, and close-knit local communities. See projects and networks of supporters to realize this vision beyond 2020.

5. Videos

The videos describe continuing efforts for the reconstruction of Tohoku.
For more information, visit an official website of Japan’s Reconstruction Agency.

1. Reconstruction from Nuclear Disaster and the History of Revitalization of Fukushima (PDF)

This guidebook gives you a comprehensive overview of the current situation in Fukushima and its food safety based on scientific findings.

2. Commitment to Food Safety

In Japan, the world’s most rigorous standards are enforced in monitoring radiation levels in food products. Look at the IAEA Report and results of inspections on agricultural products, livestock products, fisheries, and more.

3. Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant

The decommissioning of the TEPCO’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station is underway. See the long-term decommissioning strategy and detailed analysis of its environmental impact.

4. Health Effects of Radiation

This link provides comparative analysis and impact of radiation, environmental monitoring, and assessments by international organizations.

5. Videos

Take a behind-the-scenes look at food safety inspection procedures. An UN radiation expert discusses Fukushima’s food safety standards.

6. Promotion of Japanese cuisine (Washoku) and Japanese Food Products Overseas

A collection of links provides information on Japanese food culture, special ambassadors of Japanese cuisine, and certification programs.

7. Graphic Explainer on the Safety of Food from Fukushima (Recommended for young students) (PDF)

This manga-style booklet provides scientific background of the protection measures against radioactive substances in Japanese food products.

1. Explore Tohoku

From cherry blossoms to summer festivals to local dishes, Tohoku has everything Japan has to offer.

2. Travel to Tohoku

National Tourist Organization has travel information, recommended places to visit, and local events.

Reference

• Reconstruction Agency (I. 1, 2, 4, 5 II. 1, 5 III. 1)
• Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery (II. 2, 6)
• Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (II. 3)
• Ministry of the Environment (II. 4, 7)
• Japan National Tourist Organization (III. 2)
• Fukushima Prefectural Government (I. 3, 5)