Candle Lighting March 11 Remembrance Event in Kyoto

11 March 2012, Kyoto

First Anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami 

SWTJ organized the Kyoto part of a remembrance candle lighting event held 

simultaneously in Miyazaki, Kyoto, and in Kesennuma in the disaster district. 

From 6pm, organizers and visitors alike started to light the candles and to share a 

time of silence in remembrance of the victims of last spring's disaster.

Due to the cold wind and snow, we had to light the candles again and again. 

Finally, the candles expressed together what we all felt regarding the people in  the disaster area: 

"In Kyoto, we are with you, from the bottom of our heart!' (the candles shape a Chinese character meaning 'heart')

We would like to thank all those who participated, the visitors who joined us, and those who couldn't come but who were with us in thought or sent messages from afar. 

At this first anniversary, SWTJ confirms its strong determination to continue to support the disaster area over the long-term. 

We thank the many people who supported SWTJ so generously during the last year with their time, skills and donations! Thank you for your continuous support! 

Text: Watanabe Eiji@SWTJ

Candle lighting event:

Cooperation: Kyoto Kitayama Ward Citizens' Association

Thanks to: Kyoto Kitayama Retail Shops and Convenience Stores