Kesennuma, in Miyagi prefecture (Japan), was one of the sea-side cities that was completely devastated by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Triggered by an M9 earthquake off the East coast of Japan, an unimaginable deluge swept through this once peaceful and picturesque fishing town, drowning its life and soul under water and debris. One of the haunting symbols of this destruction – the remains of Koyo High School – has been retained by the city to ensure that future generations never forget what happened and in some way or the other, learn how to save more lives and possibly reduce the potential damage.
Over the last weekend, I spent some time in Kesennuma and also visited the school, which has now been converted into the Kesennuma City Memorial Museum. Here are some photos of the ruins.
気仙沼市 東日本大震災構･伝承館
Address:
9-1 Hajikamisemukai, Kesennuma-shi, Miyagi-ken
Phone Number: 0226-28-9671
Business Hours: 9:30AM~5:00PM (9:30AM~4:00PM from October~March)
Admission: 600 yen
Regular Holidays: Mondays (closed the following day in the event of public holidays)