On January 21, 2026, I met with Professor Tomohiro Kariya from Tohoku University and Professor Tomoko Matsushita from Fukushima University at "FUTAHOME" in Futabamachi.

This is the second report on that occasion.

Both of them are active in a local research space jointly established by Tohoku University and Fukushima University on the second floor of FUTAHOME.

Here, they are stationed, serving as a local base for researchers and students from both universities to conduct research and other activities in the Hamadori region.

They are also implementing part of a commissioned project by the Fukushima International Research and Education Organization.

Interview scene.

In the front right is Professor Kariya. In the back is Professor Matsushita.

In the front left is me (with poor posture). In the back is Mr. Sasaki. Mr. Sasaki is engaged in activities to support the reconstruction of Futabamachi while serving as the chairman of the Land Information Center.

Their conversation

"When I saw the situation in Futaba, I sometimes feel the distance between the residents who have returned and those who have come from other areas, so a neutral university is holding a monthly meeting called 'Futahome' to create a shared space. In the midst of negative images about the reconstruction of this area, we are creating a constructive discussion space to draw out positive opinions."

"I think the policy of utilizing the plans and resources created by Futabamachi is good. Change can be seen from utilizing what remains and vacant land. Small businesses are starting. We want to show the changing landscape. Rather than deciding on a plan and securing a budget, I think it’s better to gradually expand from what can be done."

"I feel there are countless things that can be done compared to general regions. I want to show what richness means in this place. There is potential, but sharing that richness is still difficult, sometimes awkward, and it doesn't reach the right people. I want to do something about that."

Mr. Sasaki's group is also planning projects for reconstruction by renting land, but it seems they are struggling to gain understanding from landowners.

"I am thinking of conducting a survey on the intentions of landowners. I want to hear from landowners about the history of the land, their experiences during the earthquake, and how they think about their hometown from afar. I believe it would be good to ask what they want to do with the land in that flow, as if you suddenly ask them what they want to do with the land, they might stop thinking because there are too many things they want to say."

Listening carefully to the stories of those who have evacuated is very important. There are things that are hard to say to the administration, and both of them have a very soft and good listening impression. I hope the interview can be realized. Let's look forward to it.