Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

makoto · May 8, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Asian Development Bank: inflation measures needed

....Kuroda indicated that Japan will not greatly reduce its official development assistance in the wake of the natural disaster in March.
He says he hopes Japan will continue its level of assistance, though that will be decided by the Japanese people and government.

Saturday, May 07, 2011 03:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_01.html

Government to assist auto parts makers

The Development Bank of Japan is planning to work with an auto parts organization to extend funding to its members. The bank wants to help manufacturers get back on their feet after the natural disaster in March....

Saturday, May 07, 2011 03:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_02.html

ASEAN discusses disaster management

Indonesia's president has urged the leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to immediately set up disaster management measures following the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan....

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_15.html

Crown Prince and Princess visit evacuee shelter

Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako have visited a shelter where evacuees from Hirono town in Fukushima Prefecture are staying. It is their second visit to meet the survivors of the March 11th disaster....

Saturday, May 07, 2011 22:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/07_20.html
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Yomiuri online

Scant progress in repairing water, power lines

Nearly two months after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, many disaster-stricken areas have made little progress in repairing water, electricity and other vital lifelines, causing stress and physical hardship to survivors.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110506005043.htm

Foreign volunteers active in Tohoku

Aided by Japanese nongovernmental organizations, foreign volunteers have been working actively in areas affected by the March 11 disaster.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110506004332.htm

Bodies identified by cell phone info

Cell phones found on people killed by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami have helped identify 279 victims of the disaster, Miyagi prefectural police said......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110506002849.htm
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Asahi com

Hokkaido town seduces Tokyoites with cool summer climate

A Hokkaido town is touting its cool climate and lack of rolling blackouts to lure sweat-drenched Tokyoites who will be toiling this summer in sweltering offices due to the air conditioners set at around 30 degrees to conserve energy.....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105060059.html

Mechanisms from earlier tsunami seen in March 11 disaster

The March 11 tsunami may have shared mechanisms of both the 1896 Meiji-Sanriku tsunami and the 869 Jogan tsunami, creating a monster wave that caused such widespread devastation, researchers said. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105060061.html

'Voluntary' restraint may be anything but in times of disaster

When disasters, the deaths of major figures or other sad news hits Japan, Japanese tend to express their respect for the victims by voluntarily restraining from holding or attending festive events. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105060045.html

Local newspapers met the challenge when disaster struck

Fishing boats are overtaken by the tsunami while emitting black smoke that signal their engines are at full throttle. Massive fields of rubble from shattered villages flow from the right and from the left. ...

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105060043.html

Imperial couple visits disaster-stricken Iwate

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko on May 6 visited Iwate Prefecture in their second tour to the region devastated by the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105060287.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Many foreign residents wish to stay in Japan despite disaster: survey

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- More than 90 percent of foreigners studying or working in Japan expressed willingness to continue staying in the country despite the March 11 disaster, according to a recent online survey by a supporting group for them......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/07/20110507p2g00m0dm010000c.html

Couple from tsunami-devastated town dons fox makeup to get 'married' at festival

UBE, Yamaguchi -- Noses dabbed black and whiskers painted on cheeks, a young couple from tsunami-devastated Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, played the part of a happy fox bride and groom at a festival here on May 5.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/07/20110507p2a00m0na009000c.html
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Jiji press

Panel Eyes Nationalizing Private Land in Disaster Areas

Rikuzentakata, Iwate Pref., May 7 (Jiji Press)--Japan should consider nationalizing private land in areas hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami to help facilitate reconstruction, the head of a government reconstruction panel suggested Saturday. ....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011050700341
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Sankei news

volunteer' tent at Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 9, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Concert hall rebuilt in Italy with Japanese aid

Restoration of a concert hall has been completed with financial aid from Japan in L'Aquila, central Italy, where an earthquake killed about 300 people in April 2009......

Sunday, May 08, 2011 06:51 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/08_05.html

Japanese firms move up rechargeable battery sales

Japanese electronics firms are moving up their schedule for sales of home-use rechargeable batteries, expecting power shortages in the summer linked to the nuclear plant accident.....

Sunday, May 08, 2011 12:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/08_09.html

White carnations laid in tsunami-hit Iwate towns

In the tsunami-hit region of Japan, people laid white carnations for their lost ones on Mother's Day.....

Sunday, May 08, 2011 14:56 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/08_13.html

Japan grateful for Taiwan's disaster support

A group of Japanese lawmakers has expressed gratitude to the people of Taiwan for their support after the March 11th disaster.....

Sunday, May 08, 2011 23:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/08_16.html
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Asahi com

Woman who survived 1933 tsunami kept calm on March 11

YAMADA, Iwate Prefecture--For 88-year-old Nobu Suzuki, who lived in the Osawa district of this coastal town, the words of wisdom her father told her 78 years ago saved her life on March 11. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105070147.html

Crises spur push for relocating capital from Tokyo

The nuclear crisis, power shortage and aftershocks following the Great East Japan Earthquake have re-energized proponents of relocating the capital from Tokyo. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105080124.html

Cambodian weavers repay Japanese aid with donation

Help for disaster survivors is arriving from Cambodians who once were on the receiving end of aid from Japan.....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105080267.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

M5.7 quake jolts Iwate Pref., vicinity

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 5.7 jolted Iwate Prefecture and its vicinity early Sunday, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/08/20110508p2g00m0dm001000c.html

Tsunami, wildfires triggered by quake ravaged over 1,600 hectares of forest

Fires and the tsunami triggered by the March 11 earthquake ravaged over 1,600 hectares of forests in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures, it has been learned......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/08/20110507p2a00m0na015000c.html

Sauce manufacturer with 200-year history recovers key ingredient after tsunami disaster

RIKUZENTAKATA, Iwate -- A long-established soy sauce manufacturer here pledges to continue producing its traditional taste after losing everything but a small amount of "moromi," the key to the product's taste, to the March 11 disasters.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/08/20110507p2a00m0et021000c.html

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Sankei news

Hitachi city, Ibaraki pref

makoto · May 11, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Anime fans in Argentina raise funds for Japan

In Argentina, fans of Japanese anime dressed up as their favorite characters held a charity walk for survivors of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan.....

Monday, May 09, 2011 09:52 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/09_11.html
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Yomiuri online

Evacuees longing for hot meals

SENDAI--Nearly two months after the March 11 disaster, many evacuees are growing frustrated with the constant menu of cold meals, with some suffering health problems due to the bland diet......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110508002322.htm

With no car, road to recovery rough / Aged and ill robbed of mobility; workers face grueling commutes by bicycle

SENDAI--A shortage of automobiles is making it difficult for survivors of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami to get to work, visit health care facilities, stay in contact with loved ones and pursue other activities crucial to rebuilding their lives....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110508002265.htm

Film to show Ishinomaki residents' spirit

SHINOMAKI, Miyagi--An American man who helped popularize manga in the United States has gone behind the camera to make a film about Ishinomaki residents' efforts to help their city rebound from the March 11 disaster.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110508002533.htm

Boat left on roof by tsunami to be removed, scrapped

KAMAISHI, Iwate--The Kamaishi municipal government has dashed hopes that a sightseeing boat swept up by the March 11 tsunami and deposited precariously on the roof of a family inn be turned into a disaster memorial, as it has decided to demolish the boat. .....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110508002567.htm

'Green curtains' block heat, save energy

A growing number of people are turning to nature to help them save electricity this summer, creating so-called green curtains of climbing plants......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110509004046.htm

Long-term view on cleanup process urged

Research bodies are urging disaster-hit areas to sort debris according to material type to simplify the later processes of recycling and disposal, although locals say cleaning up as quickly as possible should be the top priority.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110509004261.htm

Exhibition highlights rescue, relief workers

A special exhibition highlighting the efforts of rescue and relief workers after the Great East Japan Earthquake is currently under way at the Museum of Maritime Science in Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110509003956.htm

Scenic area to host waste plant / Matsushima chosen for facility to dispose of debris from disaster

SENDAI--The Matsushima area of Miyagi Prefecture--known as one of Japan's three most scenic spots--will likely host a waste-disposal plant to help deal with the huge amounts of debris created by the March 11 disaster, according to the prefectural government.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110509004267.htm

manami story http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110331005873.htm
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Asahi com

Tsunami debris to hit West Coast, Hawaii in a few years

LOS ANGELES--Floating debris from the March 11 tsunami will reach the North American West Coast in three years and hit Hawaii twice, leading to potential environmental and economic damage, U.S. researchers said......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105090148.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Clinics to be set up in all temporary housing districts

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- The health ministry has decided to set up clinics at all clusters of temporary housing estates to be built for evacuees from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in the three hardest hit prefectures of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima, ministry sources said Sunday....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/09/20110509p2g00m0dm004000c.html

Tsunami-ravaged town starts accepting applications for relief money

OTSUCHI, Iwate -- Many residents lined up in front of the temporary office building of this tsunami-ravaged town on May 9 as the municipality started to accept applications for relief money for victims of the March 11 disaster.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/09/20110509p2a00m0na003000c.html

Bridge and gate survive tsunami but mini-shrine vanishes

MIYAKO, Iwate -- A bridge and gate here that had been lost multiple times in the past to rough ocean waters survived the giant tsunami on March 11, while a small-shrine that had always made it through in the past was lost......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/09/20110509p2a00m0na005000c.html

Inkstone manufacturers, volunteers search through rubble for materials

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- Traditional inkstone manufacturers and volunteer workers here are searching for materials washed away by the March 11 tsunami in an effort to rebuild the local industry......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/09/20110509p2a00m0na007000c.html

Quake-hit city suspends food rationing over lack of fairness fears

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- The city government here suspended its program to ration food and basic necessities on May 8, threatening to further distress some local residents battling to survive the harsh aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/09/20110509p2a00m0na011000c.html

'Lonely deaths' feared in temporary houses as areas struggle to maintain community spirit

The central and local governments have been working against the clock to build temporary housing for local residents in northeastern Japan who were displaced by the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis, but such efforts could prove insufficient to help maintain community spirit and prevent "lonely deaths.".....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/09/20110509p2a00m0na016000c.html

DPJ deputy head for quake task force resigns for playing golf

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Hajime Ishii, vice president of the ruling Democratic Party of Japan, stepped down Monday as deputy head of the party's task force to deal with the March earthquake-tsunami disaster amid criticism he played golf during his official visit to the Philippines earlier this month......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2g00m0dm001000c.html

South Korean city redirects Japan quake donations over territorial row

SEOUL (Kyodo) -- Officials of a city in northern South Korea collected 5 million won (about $4,560) in donations for victims of Japan's March 11 earthquake and tsunami but used the money for a scholarship instead due to a row over Japanese school texts, Yonhap News Agency said.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2g00m0dm003000c.html

27 percent of evacuees say they have no prospects of making a living: poll

More than a quarter of evacuees who replied to a Mainichi poll one month after the Great East Japan Earthquake say they have no prospects of earning a living.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2a00m0na009000c.html

Man left to raise baby son alone after tsunami keeps searching for wife

Firmly grasping his 1-year-old son Yuhi, 26-year-old Junichi Kozuchi walks through the rubble-filled city of Rikuzentakata, Iwate Prefecture, searching for his missing 24-year-old wife Yuka. Nearly two months have passed since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that devastated the city and other areas of northeastern Japan, but nearly 10,000 people are still missing......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2a00m0na007000c.html

University spin-off to make low-cost, high-output solar power units

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A start-up firm spun off from a University of Tokyo research center said Monday it will begin making a low-cost solar power system in June in Miyagi Prefecture, with an eye on selling it worldwide in the future.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2g00m0dm036000c.html

Kogakuin University plans permanent housing for evacuees

Engineering school Kogakuin University and materials company MonotaRO are teaming up to build permanent housing in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, for evacuees from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2a00m0na013000c.html

Major opposition parties snub Kan's quake recovery efforts

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Major opposition parties on Tuesday told the ruling coalition led by the Democratic Party of Japan that they would not take part in a bipartisan framework sought by Prime Minister Naoto Kan to discuss measures to rebuild areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2g00m0dm071000c.html

Loan of buses to clinic saves lives of 170 dialysis patients in tsunami-hit city

TAGAJO, Miyagi -- For at least 170 dialysis patients in this tsunami-ravaged city, the kindness of strangers hasn't just meant new clothes and hot meals; it's meant survival itself, in the form of four buses to ferry them to hospitals for treatment......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2a00m0na017000c.html

Japanese community's quake relief T-shirts prove popular in Papua New Guinea

A total of 1,600 T-shirts that members of a Japanese residents' association in Papua New Guinea produced to support quake- and tsunami-ravaged northeastern Japan sold out in only one month......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/10/20110510p2a00m0na020000c.html

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Jiji press

7,000 Runners Join Japan Charity Event in Central Park

New York, May 8 (Jiji Press)--Some 7,000 people took part in a running event in New York's Central Park on Sunday for charity to help victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that devastated northeastern Japan.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011050900268

Japan Finalizes Cut in SDF Troops in Disaster-Hit Areas

Tokyo, May 9 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa decided Monday to reduce the number of Self-Defense Forces troops deployed to the areas hit by the March 11 quake and tsunami......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011050900395

3 DPJ Lawmakers to Resign for Playing Golf after Disaster

Tokyo, May 9 (Jiji Press)--Three lawmakers of the Democratic Party of Japan, including Hajime Ishii, deputy chief of the ruling party's task force to cope with the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, offered on Monday to resign from their respective party or parliamentary positions over their golfing in the Philippines earlier this month.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011050900825

Govt, Firms Expand Volunteer Service Leave after Quake

Tokyo, May 10 (Jiji Press)--The central and local governments in Japan as well as private companies are expanding their programs that grant paid leave to employees joining volunteer work in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051000333

Japan Govt OKs Bill to Delay Digital TV Shift in Quake-Hit Areas

Tokyo, May 10 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government on Tuesday adopted special legislation to put off for up to one year the planned full shift to digital terrestrial television broadcasts in three northeastern prefectures hit hardest by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051000347

Key Oppositions Refuse to Join Japan Reconstruction Task Force

Tokyo, May 10 (Jiji Press)--The Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito agreed Tuesday that the key opposition parties will not join a planned government task force that will implement programs for reconstruction from the March 11 quake and tsunami in northeastern Japan.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051000518

Quake Relief Volunteers Total 80,000 during Golden Week

Tokyo, May 10 (Jiji Press)--The number of volunteers who worked in three northeastern Japan prefectures hit hardest by the March 11 quake and tsunami totaled about 80,000 during the Golden Week holiday period, the government said Tuesday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051000627

INTERVIEW: S&P Economist Warns of Fiscal Dangers in Japan

New York, May 9 (Jiji Press)--Japan's fiscal conditions will reach a "dangerous level in the next couple of years" mainly because the ratios of the country's fiscal deficit and outstanding government debt to gross domestic product are high, David Wyss, chief economic at Standard & Poor's, said Monday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051000735

Consumers' Self-Restraint Easing 2 Months after Japan Disaster

Tokyo, May 10 (Jiji Press)--There are indications that Japanese consumers' self-restraint in leisure and entertainment activities is easing two months after a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami that hit the northeaster part of the country.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051000919

24,826 Dead or Missing from Japan Disaster

Tokyo, May 10 (Jiji Press)--The total number of those dead or missing after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami stood at 24,829 as of Tuesday, the National Police Agency said the same day.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051001000

Kan Hopes to Submit Reconstruction Bill This Week

Tokyo, May 10 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan said Tuesday he hopes to submit a bill later this week to outline plans for reconstruction of areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051001084
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Sankei news

panorama photo

Save Japan Museum
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0508photo/

makoto · May 11, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Number of dead and missing unlikely to rise much

Two months have passed since the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. The disaster has left more than 24,000 people dead or missing.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 04:27 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_03.html

Auto firms plan weekend production in summer

Japanese automakers will open production lines on weekends this summer and close them on Thursdays and Fridays in an effort to conserve electricity....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 07:33 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_08.html

Survivors' lives two months on

Survivors of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan say they still face difficulties in their daily lives 2 months on.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 09:43 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_10.html

Toyota supply chain improving

Toyota Motor is making progress in dealing with the supply disruptions caused by the March 11th earthquake, having secured 80 percent of the missing components....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 11:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_17.html

Japanese thank Americans in US newspaper

A group of Japanese has run a message in a Washington newspaper expressing gratitude to Americans for their support after the March 11th disaster.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 12:08 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_13.html

Japanese actor organizes US celebrities' messages

Japanese actor Ken Watanabe has posted a video message on the Internet with the help of Hollywood stars to encourage survivors of the March 11th quake and tsunami.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 16:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_22.html

Key Japanese economic index posts largest decline

A key Japanese economic index marked a record monthly fall in March due to the major earthquake and tsunami.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 17:30 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_26.html

SDF to scale down relief efforts in disaster zone

Japan's Self-Defense Forces plan to scale down their relief efforts in areas hit by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami, now that 2 months have passed since the disaster.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 18:39 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_27.html

Services observed 2 months after quake and tsunami

On Wednesday, exactly 2 months after the March 11th earthquake and tsunami hit eastern Japan, people across the affected region held a moment of silence for the victims.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 19:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_28.html

Nearly 25,000 dead or missing in March disaster

Two months after the March 11th earthquake and subsequent tsunami, the number of dead or missing stands at 24,834....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 19:50 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_32.html

80% of survivors feel mental and physical strains

An NHK survey shows that nearly 80 percent of the survivors of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami are suffering sleeplessness, tiredness or other forms of mental or physical disorders....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 19:15 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_24.html

Imperial couple visits disaster-hit Fukushima

Japan's imperial couple has visited Fukushima Prefecture to encourage people who evacuated due to the earthquake and tsunami disaster and radioactive contamination from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 20:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_25.html

Prime Minister offers thanks for international aid

Prime Minister Naoto Kan invited foreign ambassadors in Tokyo to an event to express his gratitude for the support extended by their countries to the people affected by the March 11th earthquake.....

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 22:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/11_35.html
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Yomiuri online

Teachers loyal to disaster-area kids

Primary school teachers in disaster-hit areas continue to make extraordinary efforts on behalf of their young students......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110510005196.htm
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Asahi com

How to live happily with pets in evacuation centers

For pet lovers, the idea of living without their dogs, cats or parrot is simply unimaginable--the creature is every bit a part of the family, just like a son or a daughter.....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105100145.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Kan mulling Cabinet reshuffle after current Diet session

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Naoto Kan is considering reshuffling his Cabinet immediately after the current parliamentary session ends June 22, aiming to bolster his efforts for reconstruction work in areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and ensuing tsunami, sources close to him and executives of the ruling party said Tuesday.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/11/20110511p2g00m0dm003000c.html

Emperor, empress visit disaster-hit Fukushima to encourage evacuees

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko visited Fukushima Prefecture on Wednesday to give their support to evacuees who have been forced to flee their homes due to the catastrophic March 11 earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant...

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/11/20110511p2g00m0dm049000c.html

Disaster-struck town to set up makeshift stores in tent

YAMADA, Iwate -- A local business association is set to open makeshift stores using a large tent provided as a relief item in a bid to revitalize the area devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/11/20110511p2a00m0na007000c.html

Decision to reopen businesses in tsunami-stricken city entangled in hope and fear

KAMAISHI, Iwate -- The temporary prefab headquarters of a shopping-district association here has been set up among still-remaining rubble, exemplifying the hopes of local business owners whose shops were destroyed in the March 11 quake and tsunami.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/11/20110511p2a00m0na011000c.html
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Jiji press

Japan Govt to Adopt Reconstruction Bill Fri.

Tokyo, May 11 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government intends to adopt on Friday a bill for reconstruction of areas hit by the March quake and tsunami for submission to the ongoing parliamentary session.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051100491

Police to Collect DNA Samples from Missing People's Families

Tokyo, May 11 (Jiji Press)--The National Police Agency will ask relatives of people missing in the March 11 quake and tsunami to provide DNA samples in order to step up identification of bodies, officials said Wednesday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051100606

INTERVIEW: Mission to Pass On Quake Experience: Japanese Doctor

Sendai, Miyagi Pref., May 11 (Jiji Press)--"It is my mission to continue passing on my experience" of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, said Japanese doctor Takeshi Kanno, who made Time magazine's annual list of the world's 100 most influential people. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051100612

Japan Pump Prices Down for 2nd Straight Week

Tokyo, May 11 (Jiji Press)--Retail gasoline prices in Japan dropped for a second straight week, a sign of an improvement after weeks of tight supply caused by the March 11 earthquake.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051101035

Japan's Imperial Couple Visits Fukushima Pref.

Fukushima, May 11 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Emperor Akihiro and Empress Michiko on Wednesday visited the northeastern Japan prefecture of Fukushima, hit hard by earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disasters. ....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051101088
________________________
Sankei news

Minamisanriku town, Miyagi pref

Otsuchi town, Iwate pref

kesennuma city, iwate pref
5/11 & 3/15

Natori city, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 13, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Thai tourists return to Japan

A Thai tour group is on its way to Japan, the first such visit from Thailand since the March 11th disaster......

Thursday, May 12, 2011 07:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/12_05.html

UN conference discusses Japan quake and tsunami

A UN-sponsored conference on disaster preparedness has agreed on the need to apply the lessons from the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in Japan to strengthen global systems for disaster risk management.....

Thursday, May 12, 2011 09:50 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/12_09.html

Current account surplus drops

Japan's current account surplus marked its first drop in 2 months in March.....

Thursday, May 12, 2011 16:09 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/12_24.html

Yosano: March disaster will slow down growth

The minister in charge of economic and fiscal policy says the March earthquake and tsunami will push down Japan's economic growth by about one percentage point this fiscal year....

Thursday, May 12, 2011 18:31 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/12_33.html
_____________________
Yomiuri online

Tokyo doctor to open clinic in Ishinomaki

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--At first, her intention was to volunteer. But after helping people in the Tohoku region following the Great East Japan Earthquake, doctor Naoko Ishii decided to relocate to the area to give consultations......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110511003850.htm

Etegami bring hope from quake-hit areas

A Tokyo artist has been exchanging etegami letters decorated with colorful depictions of everyday scenes with fellow enthusiasts of the genre in areas affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, saying the strength contained in the messages has inspired him.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110511004191.htm
__________________________
Asahi com

Tsunami continues to haunt Tohoku fishermen

Makoto Hatakeyama peered into the water near the wharf in Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, and saw 2-centimeter-long gobies. That was on April 8, and it was the first time he had seen creatures in the sea since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105110152.html
_______________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japanese Red Cross collects 174 bil. yen in quake relief donations

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japanese Red Cross Society said Wednesday it has received about 174 billion yen in donations for people affected by the March 11 quake and tsunami, the largest ever it has collected, and that 65 billion yen of the amount has been distributed to the governments of afflicted prefectures......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/12/20110512p2g00m0dm004000c.html

Kan's aid promise pleases foreign envoys at relief event

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Naoto Kan asked foreign diplomats during a reception Wednesday to help Japan's reconstruction by consuming food and liquor from areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, pleasing them by saying a full recovery will lead to increased aid......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/12/20110512p2g00m0dm006000c.html

Stone monument with lessons from 1933 tsunami recovered from rubble in Iwate town

OTSUCHI, Iwate -- A stone slab monument engraved with lessons learned from the 1933 Sanriku earthquake was discovered amongst the rubble here on May 11.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/12/20110512p2a00m0na008000c.html

Disaster survivors struggle to get over losing loved ones

Survivors of the deadly earthquake and ensuing tsunami that devastated coastal cities in northeastern Japan continue to suffer from the loss of their beloved ones two months after the disaster......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/12/20110512p2a00m0na014000c.html

2 boys who lost mother to tsunami express feelings through art

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- A volunteer here collecting children's tsunami-related compositions received a set of drawings from two boys who lost their mother to the March 11 tsunami that depicted their feelings through pictures and words......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/12/20110512p2a00m0na021000c.html

__________________________
Jiji press

Japan Wants 3-Way Summit Events in Disaster-Hit Areas

Tokyo, May 12 (Jiji Press)--Japan has sounded out South Korea and China about an idea to bring events related to their upcoming summit to areas hit by the March 11 quake and tsunami, it was learned Thursday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051200497

Lenders in Disaster Areas to Get Waiver on Public Fund Repayments

Tokyo, May 12 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Financial Services Agency plans to give shinkin banks and "shinyo kumiai" credit cooperatives in areas devastated by the March 11 disaster a waiver on the repayment of public funds they receive, informed sources said Thursday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051200748

INTERVIEW: Panel Eyes Reconstruction of Disaster Areas in 3-5 Years

Tokyo, May 12 (Jiji Press)--A Japanese government panel hopes to see areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami rebuilt in three to five years, Makoto Iokibe, the reconstruction panel's chair, said Thursday. ....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051201165

Japan Looks to Taiwan to Boost Tourism

Taipei, May 12 (Jiji Press)--The Japan Tourism Agency appealed to local media Thursday to make more effort to attract Taiwanese visitors to the country as tourist numbers have plunged due to the March 11 disaster and ongoing nuclear crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 power plant.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051201181
_________________________
Sankei news

Ofunato city, Iwate pref

Rikuzentakata city, Iwate pref

Otsuchi town, Iwate pref

rainbow at Kesennuma city, Miyagi pref

prayer at Okawa school at Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref
74 children and 10 teachers were carried away by tsunami
<iframe width="150" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.co.jp/maps?hl=fr&ie=UTF8&t=h&brcurrent=3,0x5f89ab93f48ee859:0x15737564300dfcc2,1&ll=38.546412,141.428354&spn=0.001259,0.001609&z=17&output=embed"></iframe><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.co.jp/maps?hl=fr&ie=UTF8&t=h&brcurrent=3,0x5f89ab93f48ee859:0x15737564300dfcc2,1&ll=38.546412,141.428354&spn=0.001259,0.001609&z=17&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">okawa school</a></small>

makoto · May 14, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Ban encourages Japanese students

UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon offered encouragement to Japanese high school students visiting New York for a mock UN conference after the March 11 disaster.....

Friday, May 13, 2011 13:34 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_17.html

Japanese automakers report quake-related losses

Japan's seven leading automakers posted losses totaling more than 3 billion dollars for the business year that ended in March, mainly due to the effects of the massive earthquake and tsunami on March 11th.....

Friday, May 13, 2011 13:17 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_21.html

Govt sets summer power-saving target at 15%

The Japanese government has decided to set its summer-time power-saving target at 15 percent for the service areas of the Tokyo and Tohoku power companies in eastern and northeastern Japan.......

Friday, May 13, 2011 14:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_18.html

Mixed reactions to power-saving target

Japanese industries are showing mixed reactions to the government's revised target for summer-time power-saving, down from the initial maximum 25 percent to 15 percent......

Friday, May 13, 2011 19:53 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_32.html

After-quake deaths top 500

NHK has learned that at least 524 survivors of the March 11th disaster have died -- many of them due to stress and fatigue.....

Friday, May 13, 2011 19:53 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_31.html

Death toll from earthquake tops 15,000

The death toll from the March 11th earthquake and tsunami and major aftershocks in northeastern Japan has surpassed 15,000.....

Friday, May 13, 2011 19:53 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_33.html

Wen Jiabao to visit Japan's disaster-hit areas

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao will visit areas affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami when he visits Tokyo to attend a summit with Japanese and South Korean leaders later this month......

Friday, May 13, 2011 20:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_35.html

Toyota to suspend production in Europe

Toyota Motor will suspend vehicle production at 5 of its European plants for several days from late April to early May due to a shortage of parts......

Wednesday, April 13, 2011 21:25 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/13_38.html
___________________
Yomiuri online

NPO appeals for donations of tote bags for quake survivors

A nonprofit organization in Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo, is calling for the public to donate handmade tote bags to elderly and handicapped people in areas hit by the massive March 11 earthquake and tsunami......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110512003735.htm

66% of mayors unsure about return to normal

Mayors of 27 municipalities in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima Prefectures that were hard-hit by the Great East Japan Earthquake do not know when regular life can be restored, according to a survey by The Yomiuri Shimbun......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110512002557.htm
__________________
Asahi com

Chinese, S. Korean leaders may visit quake-affected areas

The leaders of China and South Korea may visit areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami of March 11 during their trilateral summit meeting, set for Tokyo on May 21-22. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105120184.html

Yosano urges coalition but sees slim chance

Japanese economics minister Kaoru Yosano said on May 12 the country's triple disasters provided an opportunity to create a coalition that would break a deadlock in parliament, but added that the chances of that happening were at present small. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105120437.html

Chinese visit Onagawa with a gift of appreciation

ONAGAWA, Miyagi Prefecture--Even though she saw the news footage on TV, Chinese broadcasting executive Zhang Liling still was struck speechless when she visited Onagawa, Miyagi Prefecture, on April 20 and saw the scope of the devastation. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105120155.html

Imperial couple console quake victims in Fukushima

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko completed their first round of visits to the disaster-stricken Tohoku region May 11, visiting evacuation centers in Fukushima Prefecture and consoling evacuees forced from their homes due to the accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105120187.html
______________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Ministry to let workers wear T-shirts, jeans under 'Super Cool Biz'

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Ministry of the Environment decided Thursday to allow its workers to dress extremely casually this summer, such as in aloha shirts and jeans, under its new "Super Cool Biz" summertime energy-conserving campaign......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/13/20110513p2g00m0dm002000c.html

Dalai Lama urges tsunami, quake survivors in Japan to 'look forward'

NEWARK (Kyodo) -- The Dalai Lama said Thursday that Japan should "look forward" as it strives to recover from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disaster that devastated its northeastern region......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/13/20110513p2g00m0dm003000c.html

Tokyo Electric to expand power supply capacity in late Aug.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. plans to raise its power supply capacity to 56.2 million kilowatts at the end of August, up from the previously planned 50.7 million kw, through measures such as restoring operations at thermal power plants, according to a draft of a government plan to deal with anticipated electricity shortages in the summer obtained by Kyodo News on Thursday......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/13/20110513p2g00m0dm005000c.html

Gov't submits Diet bill on increasing Cabinet members

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government on Friday submitted a bill to the Diet to raise the number of Cabinet members by three in the hope of speeding up reconstruction of areas devastated by the catastrophic March 11 earthquake and tsunami......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/13/20110513p2g00m0dm024000c.html

Police begin collecting DNA from kin of quake missing for database

SENDAI (Kyodo) -- Police in Fukushima, Iwate and Miyagi prefectures began collecting on Friday DNA samples from relatives of people who remain unaccounted for following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, in a bid to compile a database to speed up their identification......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/13/20110513p2g00m0dm025000c.html

City in Iwate to hire private firm to remove rubble in bid to speed up restoration

OFUNATO, Iwate -- The municipal government here is set to consign the disposal of rubble and debris from the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami to a private business in a bid to accelerate the restoration of the city.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/13/20110513p2a00m0na003000c.html

______________________
Jii press

Japan Govt Adopts Reconstruction Bill

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government adopted a bill for postquake reconstruction at a cabinet meeting Friday, seeking cooperation from opposition parties for the passage of the bill during the current parliamentary session. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300163

Japan to Extend Fund Injection Application Period by 5 Yrs

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government plans to extend by five years the period in which financial institutions can seek public fund injections for recapitalization, Financial Services Minister Shozaburo Jimi said Friday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300442

Tokyo Electric Ups Output Capacity Estimate for Aug.

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Friday that it will likely be able to supply 56.2 million kilowatts of electricity at the end of August, up 5.5 million kilowatts from the previously estimated level. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300537

Japanese Students Thank U.N. Chief for Quake Relief

New York, May 12 (Jiji Press)--Ten Japanese high school students expressed their gratitude to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon Thursday for the support extended by the international community to Japan after the March 11 quake and tsunami......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300619

Japan Environment Ministry to Promote "Super Cool Biz"

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Environment Minister Ryu Matsumoto said Friday his ministry will promote a "Super Cool Biz" campaign from June to encourage office workers to dress more lightly and casually than under the conventional Cool Biz initiative......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300705

Japan Mulls Long-Term Tsunami Prediction

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--A Japanese government panel plans to launch discussions on starting long-term forecasting for tsunami, officials said Friday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300732

Tsukiji Market to Launch Quake Relief Charity Sale on Sun.

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo's Tsukiji fish market will launch a charity sale Sunday to support fishermen and farmers in areas hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300815

Japan Govt Adviser Wants Foreign Workforce Tapped in Disaster Areas

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--Japan needs to consider promoting the employment of foreign workers in order to revive agriculture and fisheries sectors in areas hit by the March 11 disaster, the chief of a government advisory panel on reconstruction said Friday. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300870

Death Toll from Japan Quake, Tsunami Tops 15,000

Tokyo, May 13 (Jiji Press)--The death toll from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami has topped 15,000, the National Police Agency said Friday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051300906

Visas Issued to China Group Tourists Visiting Eastern Japan

Shanghai, May 13 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese consulate-general in Shanghai on Friday issued group tourist visas to Chinese people planning to visit eastern Japan, the first since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. ....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051301165

China Premier Wen Plans to Visit Disaster-Hit Areas in Japan

　Beijing, May 13 (Jiji Press)--Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao told the head of Japan's largest business lobby Friday that he plans to visit areas affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in eastern and northeastern Japan.......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051301299
_______________________
Sankei news

Natori city, Miyagi pref

Shinchi town, Fukushima pref http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shinchi,_Fukushima

Minamisanriku town, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 15, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Lloyd's projects 4th largest insurance payout

Lloyd's of London says the insurance payout for the March 11 earthquake and tsunami will be its fourth highest ever. The world's largest insurance market is projecting its losses at close to 2 billion dollars.....

Saturday, May 14, 2011 06:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/14_03.html

Cherry trees planted in New York

Cherry trees have been planted in New York's Central Park to commemorate victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami......

Saturday, May 14, 2011 06:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/14_06.html

Gov't outlines bill on reconstruction measures

The Japanese government plans to designate some prefectures hit by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami as special zones to promote reconstruction.....

Saturday, May 14, 2011 09:55 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/14_09.html

Major banking groups' lending exceeds 2.6 tril yen

Japan's major banking groups have lent more than 2.6 trillion yen, or 30 billion dollars, since the March 11th disaster.....

Saturday, May 14, 2011 16:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/14_17.html
_________________________
Yomiuri online

FROM SQUARE ONE / How past govts dealt with major disasters

Two months have passed since the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami devastated coastal areas of the Tohoku region, and reconstruction work is slowly making headway. .....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110513005141.htm

Drummers rally to save Iwate Pref. festival

RIKUZEN-TAKATA, Iwate--A drummer from Aichi Prefecture is rallying fellow performers to continue the tradition of the Zenkoku Taiko Festival, a national drum festival usually held each autumn in disaster-hit Rikuzen-Takata, Iwate Prefecture......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110513003904.htm

Reconstruction bills submitted

The government on Friday submitted to the Diet two key bills concerning reconstruction after the Great East Japan Earthquake, including one stipulating the creation of a government headquarters for that purpose......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110513005811.htm

15% power-saving goal made official

The government on Friday decided its official plan for coping with predicted electricity shortages in eastern Japan during summer, with the central goal being a 15 percent cut from last year's electricity consumption by companies and households.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110513006046.htm
________________
Asahi com

Government wants eastern Japan to cut electricity use 15% this summer

The central government is calling for everyone in eastern Japan to reduce electricity use by 15 percent this summer due to expected shortages at Tokyo Electric Power Co. and Tohoku Electric Power Co. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105130197.html
___________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

U.N. chief encourages visiting Japanese students in wake of quake

NEW YORK (Kyodo) -- U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki Moon on Thursday encouraged Japanese students visiting New York for a mock U.N. program to collaborate in their endeavors, especially in the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that hit the northeastern part of their country........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/14/20110514p2g00m0dm003000c.html

Cherry trees planted in N.Y.'s Central Park for Japan quake victims

NEW YORK (Kyodo) -- A total of eight cherry trees were planted in New York's Central Park on Friday to remember the victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disaster in Japan......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/14/20110514p2g00m0dm005000c.html

Former Tokyo principal sets up summer study program for disaster area students

A former Tokyo principal is set to provide a free summer school program to junior high school students in a tsunami-ravaged city in northeastern Japan to make up for classes lost because of the disaster.......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/14/20110514p2a00m0na008000c.html

Young father pledges to carry on after body of wife claimed by tsunami discovered

RIKUZENTAKATA, Iwate -- A man here who lost his wife to the tsunami that tore through this city on March 11 is pledging to get over the tragedy and move forward with their young son......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/14/20110514p2a00m0na010000c.html

Serious inequalities emerge in disaster relief donation distribution in 3 prefectures

Serious inequality has emerged in the allocation of citizens' donations for the surviving family of those who died in the March 11 quake and tsunami because the range of relatives entitled to payments is different in the three hardest-hit prefectures......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/14/20110514p2a00m0na015000c.html
________________________
Jiji press

Japan to Spur Recycling of Waste Wood in Quake, Tsunami Rubble

Tokyo, May 14 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese environment ministry plans to encourage municipalities to boost the recycling of wood in the rubble left by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami..........

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051400325
_______________________
Sankei news

temporary burial area at Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

panorama photo

"hope pine tree" at Rikuzentakata city, Iwate pref
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0514rikuzentakata/ 5/10

http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0429rikuzen_matsu/ 4/28

http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0405rikuzen/ 4/2

before disasters, 70000 pine trees

5/14

makoto · May 15, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Oyster farming resumes in disaster-hit Oh-funato

In disaster-stricken Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, oyster farmers have begun rebuilding rafts destroyed by tsunami on March 11th.....

Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/14_20.html

Event to promote study in Japan

A group of Japanese universities has held an event in Indonesia to inform prospective students that Japan is recovering from the devastating quake and tsunami and that it is a safe place to study......

Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/14_24.html

Car production back to normal by end of year

Japanese automakers say they will resume normal operation levels by the end of the year, as they now see promising developments in securing enough parts......

Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/15_02.html

Almost 24,500 dead or missing from March disaster

As of Friday, the number of dead or missing in the March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami stands at 24,524.....

Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/15_06.html

Crafts of disaster-hit areas to be promoted abroad

An expert panel has urged the government to help reconstruct disaster-hit areas in northeastern Japan through overseas promotion activities for traditional crafts of the region.....

Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/15_07.html

Disaster affects 1Q GDP

Private research firms expect Japan's gross domestic product for the January-to-March period to shrink for a 2nd consecutive quarter.....

Sunday, May 15, 2011 23:29 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/15_20.html
______________________
Yomiuri online

Special zones eyed for quake-hit areas

The government plans to allow local authorities in areas hit hard by the Great East Japan Earthquake to set up special zones offering relaxed regulations and preferential taxation treatment......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/20110514dy01.htm

Evacuees want more time in tub

MINAMI-SANRIKUCHO, Miyagi--Residents at more than 30 percent of evacuee shelters are able to take a bath only once per week, according to a survey by the Cabinet Office.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110514002398.htm

Disaster hits elderly with dementia

Life as evacuees from the Great East Japan Earthquake has been extremely hard for elderly people with dementia, many of whom appear to be deteriorating as a result of stress......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110514001816.htm

Fishing boat back from 750-km journey

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--Believing his 13-ton fishing boat had been lost forever in the March 11 tsunami, fisherman Hatsuo Kimura was stunned when it turned up nearly a month later and more than 750 kilometers from its home port.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110514002256.htm

Day care centers kept kids safe

More than 300 day care centers were damaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami--including at least 28 that were destroyed or swept away--but none of the children or staffers there died in the disaster, The Yomiuri Shimbun has learned.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110514002562.htm

Free fish meals a treat for earthquake-hit town

KESENNUMA, Miyagi--An association of owners of long-distance fishing boats provided 2,000 donburi bowls topped with bonito and tuna to victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake in Kesennuma on Saturday.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110514002525.htm
________________________
Asahi com

Chinese premier to visit quake-affected areas this month

BEIJING--Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao announced May 13 that he will visit areas worst-hit by the March 11 tsunami. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105140160.html
___________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

10-year-old 'bus department chief' an inspiration to fellow disaster refugees

YAMADA, Iwate -- A fifth-grade boy at an elementary school-turned-evacuation shelter here is lending inspiration to his fellow disaster refugees by taking charge of getting everyone on buses to the closest temporary bathhouse......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/15/20110514p2a00m0na019000c.html

Family of historian who died in tsunami to donate war research materials to gov't

KAMAISHI, Iwate -- The family of a local historian who died in the tsunami triggered by the March 11 earthquake has decided to donate his research materials to the city government in the hope of passing the tragic history of war to younger generations......

Gov't reconstruction panel to make proposals in 8 areas

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A key government panel on reconstruction from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami sorted out issues for which it will make proposals in eight areas in a meeting Saturday......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/15/20110515p2g00m0dm002000c.htmlhttp://

Rikuzentakata city, Iwate pref

Wakabayashi ward, Sendai city

____________________
Sankei news

Ofunato city, Iwate pref

makoto · May 16, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Wen Jiabao to visit Fukushima

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao will make a two-day visit to Japan from Saturday. His stay will include a visit to disaster-hit Fukushima Prefecture.....

Monday, May 16, 2011 07:03 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/16_07.html

About 24,000 dead or missing in March disaster

As of Sunday, the number of dead or missing in the March 11th earthquake and tsunami stands at 24,178.....

Monday, May 16, 2011 07:03 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/16_08.html

Machinery orders rise despite disaster in March

Japan's core private-sector machinery orders rose in March, despite the massive earthquake and tsunami that occurred during the month.....

Monday, May 16, 2011 11:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/16_16.html

Fukushima prosecutor chief transferred

The top district prosecutor in Fukushima has been replaced over the release of crime suspects by his office in the aftermath of the March 11th disaster in eastern Japan......

Monday, May 16, 2011 14:13 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/16_20.html

Work resumes at Sharp LCD plants

Major electronics maker Sharp has resumed production of liquid crystal displays at 2 factories in western Japan that were suspended after the March 11th earthquake....

Monday, May 16, 2011 14:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/16_22.html

Kan cabinet approval rate stands at 28%

The latest NHK poll shows that the approval rate for Prime Minister Naoto Kan's cabinet was 28 percent, up one percentage point from the previous month.....

Monday, May 16, 2011 19:49 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/16_29.html
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Yomiuri online

Pets of evacuees 'trapped' in cars

FUKUSHIMA--Forced to live in their owners' cars for two months, pets of people at evacuation centers in Fukushima Prefecture are suffering from stress and at risk of serious health problems......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110515002345.htm

Focus on local firms slows debris removal

More than two months after the Great East Japan Earthquake, piles of debris created by the ensuing tsunami remain untouched throughout disaster-hit areas......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110515002516.htm
_________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

2nd quake recovery budget not to be ready until Aug., Kan suggests

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Naoto Kan suggested Monday that the second extra budget for fiscal 2011 to secure additional funds for reconstruction of areas ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami will not be ready by at least August......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/16/20110516p2g00m0dm041000c.html

Child models from Fukushima hit the catwalk in Tokyo for charity fundraiser

Children from nuclear crisis-stricken Fukushima Prefecture paraded down the catwalk during a charity fashion show in Tokyo on May 15......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/16/20110516p2a00m0na027000c.html

Only 4 percent of fishing boats in coastal town in useable condition after tsunami

RIKUZENTAKATA, Iwate -- Only around four percent of fishing boats in this town are useable without needing repairs after the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, it has been learned....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/16/20110516p2a00m0na032000c.html

Tokyo restaurant group to hold sake tasting event to support disaster area

A Tokyo restaurant association will hold a tasting event on May 21 for restaurant operators featuring high-quality sake brands from the disaster-hit northeastern Tohoku region in an effort to support Tohoku sake makers.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/16/20110516p2a00m0na039000c.html

___________________________
Jiji press

SDF Reserves End Disaster Relief Mission

　Tokyo, May 16 (Jiji Press)--Self-Defense Forces reserves have completed their relief mission in areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa said Monday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051600320

Japan Sees Surge in Disaster Area Donations Using Tax Break System

Tokyo, May 16 (Jiji Press)--Individual donations to prefectures and municipalities hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami using a tax break scheme are increasing sharply reflecting donators' desire to support the reconstruction of affected areas. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051600496

Used Vehicle Demand Surges in Disaster-Devastated Prefectures

Tokyo, May 16 (Jiji Press)--Sales of used vehicles soared in April in two of the three Tohoku northeastern prefectures that were most severely hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, though the overall sales plunged to the second lowest level on record for the month, industry data showed on Monday. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051600525

1,000 Fishing Boats Repairable after March Disaster Damage

Tokyo, May 16 (Jiji Press)--Some 1,000 small fishing boats damaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in the Tohoku northeastern Japan region could be used again after minor repairs to holes or engine replacements, land ministry officials said Monday. ....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051600845

YouTube Showing Firms, Shops in Japan Disaster Areas

Tokyo, May 16 (Jiji Press)--Google Inc.'s Japanese unit said Monday that it has launched videos and information services on its YouTube site to support companies and stores damaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. ...

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051600874

Japan to Clear Debris in Disaster-Hit Areas by End of FY 2013

Tokyo, May 16 (Jiji Press)--Japan aims to dispose of the debris left by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that ravaged northeastern Japan by the end of fiscal 2013, the Environment Ministry said Monday. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051600883
_____________________
Sankei news

panorama photo

Shizugawa port at Minamisanriku town, Miyagi pref
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0516minato/

Cardinal Sarah at Matsushima town, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 17, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Quake debris disposal to take 3 years

Japan's Environment Ministry says it will take 3 years to dispose of massive amounts of debris left in northeastern Japan by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami......

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 09:59 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/17_12.html

Schoolchildren plant rice in quake-hit Iwate

Schoolchildren have planted rice in a paddy field together with farmers in the hope of rebuilding quake- and tsunami-stricken areas of northeastern Japan.....

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 13:59 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/17_24.html

Smart phones upgraded to receive quake bulletins

Japanese mobile phone companies plan to offer new smartphones that can receive earthquake bulletins, which have been in high demand since the March 11th disaster.....

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 17:13 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/17_28.html
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Yomiuri online

Gift of gloves reignites dreams

HIGASHI-MATSUSHIMA, Miyagi--Dealing with the loss of his grandparents and home in the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, a local youth almost gave up on baseball and his dream of playing in the national high school championships......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110516004103.htm

Disaster base hospitals fail quake test

About 40 percent of hospitals nationwide designated as hubs to provide post-disaster medical services have not been fully quake-proofed--including a number in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures damaged in the Great East Japan Earthquake, a Yomiuri Shimbun survey has shown......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110516004923.htm

Disaster areas need teachers / Even with govt help, prefectures still need over 100 replacements

Disaster-hit Iwate and Miyagi prefectures need more than 100 additional teachers despite the education ministry's planned dispatch of teachers to help children catch up with their studies and provide them with counseling after the Great East Japan Earthquake.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110516004941.htm
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Asahi com

Teens open time capsule that survived tsunami

YAMAMOTO, Miyagi Prefecture--Graduates of a local elementary school gathered recently to open--two years early--a time capsule that survived the terrifying tsunami on March 11. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105150229.html

Great disaster prompts more women to seek marriage

A growing number of singles, particularly women in urban areas, are scrambling to find marriage partners after the country's worst natural disaster in postwar years has forced them to think about their lifestyles and the future. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105150172.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Nearly 3,000 taken to hospitals by ambulances from quake shelters

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Nearly 3,000 evacuees living in shelters in three of the northeastern Japan prefectures worst affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami have been taken to hospital by ambulance, according to a Kyodo News survey released Tuesday......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/17/20110517p2g00m0dm009000c.html

_______________________
Jiji press

Japan Eyes 2nd Extra Budget for Current Diet Session

Tokyo, May 17 (Jiji Press)--The government and the ruling Democratic Party of Japan are considering submitting a second supplementary budget for fiscal 2011 to the current regular Diet session, informed sources said Tuesday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051700762

Japan's Regular Worker Numbers Down 530,000 in Jan.-March

Tokyo, May 17 (Jiji Press)--The average number of regular workers in Japan, excluding three prefectures hit hard by the March 11 disaster, stood at 31.64 million in January-March, down 530,000 from a year before, the internal affairs ministry said Tuesday. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051700785

BOJ to Provide 74.1 B. Yen in 1st Batch of Disaster Area Loans

Tokyo, May 17 (Jiji Press)--The Bank of Japan said Tuesday that it will provide 74.1 billion yen to financial institutions in the first batch of loans under its new program aimed at supporting the reconstruction of areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051700799
___________________________
Sankei news

panorama photo

Natori city, Miyagi pref
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0517yuriage/

San Juan Bautista, "St. John the Baptist" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_warship_San_Juan_Bautista
miyagi san juan bautista museum http://www.santjuan.or.jp/

Emily · May 18, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

http://wwwsoc.nii.ac.jp/tga/disaster/articles/e-contents14.html
Holocene tsunami deposits associated with earthquakes along the Pacific coast, northeast Japan
The 2011 East Japan Earthquake Bulletin of the Tohoku Geographical Association
29 April, 2011

"The results in this article had been previously presented at American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting 2009, 14-18 December, Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco."

makoto · May 18, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

DPJ to submit tsunami protection bill

Japan's governing Democratic Party has drafted legislation aimed at decreasing the damage from tsunami.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 01:50 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_02.html

Leaders of China, S, Korea to visit Fukushima

The leaders of China and South Korea plan to visit areas devastated by the March 11th quake and tsunami to encourage local residents. Japan's Prime Minister will travel with them on Saturday......

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 02:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_03.html senseless idea

Balkan Chamber Orchestra performs for Japan

An orchestra with members from the former Yugoslav republics has given a performance to remember the victims of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in Japan......

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 08:27 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_13.html

NY children make picture book for survivors

A group of elementary school children in New York City have made a picture book to encourage children in Japan who have been affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 08:49 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_12.html

Japanese doctors speak in NY about disaster

A group of Japanese doctors is in New York to speak about their work in areas affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 12:11 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_16.html

Filmmaker focuses on home & family

Award-winning Japanese filmmaker Naomi Kawase is calling on directors around the world to create and contribute short videos focusing on the value of families and the home.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 11:58 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_20.html

Japan disaster hits US auto output

The US Federal Reserve says production of auto and related parts in the United States in April fell nearly 9 percent from the previous month. A major factor in the decline was the impact of the March 11 disaster in Japan, which disrupted parts supplies......

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 12:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_23.html

Drinking water supplied from Russia's Far East

In Russia's Far East, a beverage maker has offered to provide drinking water to people in areas devastated by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 16:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_26.html

Scholarship for disaster sufferers set up

A scholarship foundation has been set up for children who lost parents in the March 11th earthquake and tsunami that devastated eastern Japan.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 17:45 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_28.html

New condo offerings fall 27% in April

The number of new condominiums for sale in the Tokyo metropolitan area plunged nearly 30 percent last month compared to a year ago. The decline is attributed to postponed sales and promotions following the March 11th disaster......

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 18:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_30.html

New national park planned for tsunami-hit coast

Japan's Environment Ministry says it will combine parks in three prefectures affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami into a new national park that symbolizes the area's reconstruction.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 18:44 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_32.html

Unemployment doubles in quake-hit areas

Japan's labor and welfare ministry says more than 100,000 people have lost their jobs in the 3 prefectures that were hardest hit by the earthquake and tsunami on March 11th.....

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 19:39 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/18_34.html
＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿
Yomiuri online

On road to recovery, but nowhere to park

RIKUZEN-TAKATA, Iwate--The shortage of parking spaces in disaster-hit coastal areas in Miyagi and Iwate prefectures is so serious that people staying in shelters or makeshift housing often have to queue 30 minutes to park their car in nearby lots......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110517006029.htm

Forced into communal living / 360 people crowd into 20 homes in devastated fishing community

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--Two months after the March 11 tsunami swept away houses and the designated evacuation center, about 360 residents of the Kobuchihama district of Ishinomaki are still sharing cramped quarters in about 20 houses and other buildings that survived the disaster......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110517004965.htm

Govt to give SDF big boost in disaster pay

The government plans to increase the daily allowances for Self-Defense Forces personnel assigned to recovery work in the wake of the March 11 disaster to a maximum of 42,000 yen, according to government sources.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110517004948.htm

Orphans, other quake victims to get cash

The Miyagi prefectural government will give 500,000 yen to each child whose parents died in the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami, using donations it has received in the wake of the disaster, prefectural officials said......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110517005960.htm

Govt wants shelters closed by Sept.

Debris left by the Great East Japan Earthquake is to be cleared and emergency evacuation centers closed by the end of August, according to a draft government plan to support disaster survivors......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110517005146.htm
__________________________
Asahi com

Vatican cardinal prays for victims of disaster

Roman Catholic Cardinal Robert Sarah visited quake-stricken Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture, on May 16, offering a prayer for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105170148.html

Town largely ignored tsunami warnings of community leader

IWAKI, Fukushima Prefecture--Few people here took seriously the constant warnings of Tokuo Suzuki. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105170141.html

Google opens new website for 'lost towns' in quake

Google Japan Inc. on May 16 launched a website service to enable online users to view photographs and video footage--contributed by Google users--of the quake-devastated areas before the Great East Japan Earthquake. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105170149.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

3-5 yrs needed for reconstruction to take shape: panel head

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Rebuilding of communities and businesses in northeastern Japan, devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, is likely to take shape in around three to five years, according to the head of a key government panel tasked with drawing up a blueprint for post-disaster reconstruction......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/18/20110518p2g00m0dm004000c.html

Quake damage might cost 450,000 to 650,000 jobs in Japan: study

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Some 450,000 to 650,000 jobs could be lost throughout Japan as a result of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, according to a study released Tuesday by a private think tank......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/18/20110518p2g00m0dm005000c.html

Gov't eyes over 1 tril. yen extra budget to dodge criticism

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government and the ruling party led by Prime Minister Naoto Kan are considering creating an additional extra budget of more than 1 trillion yen ($12.2 billion) to finance reconstruction work following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, sources close to the matter said Tuesday.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/18/20110518p2g00m0dm006000c.html

Osaka to designate evacuation facilities for 850,000 people in case of large tsunami

OSAKA -- City officials here will designate facilities capable of temporarily holding 850,000 evacuees should a large tsunami strike the city, it has been announced......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/18/20110518p2a00m0na008000c.html

Levees need reinforcing to prevent tsunami damage, say researchers

Rivers overflowed following the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami after surging waters washed away the outer slope of levees, allowing concrete retaining wall to collapse, experts have concluded.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/18/20110518p2a00m0na010000c.html

Hospital doctor in town hit by tsunami brings message of care to homes

Ever since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, the deputy head of the only general hospital in the Iwate Prefecture town of Yamada has been making a special effort to visit patients at homes and shelters......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/18/20110518p2a00m0na016000c.html

Sanriku coast

________________________
Jiji press

Japanese, Chinese, S. Korean Leaders May Visit Quake-Hit Areas

Tokyo, May 18 (Jiji Press)--Japan, China and South Korea are arranging for a joint visit Saturday by their leaders to areas hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said Wednesday. ....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051800373

Active Use of Renewable Energy Eyed for Tohoku Rebuilding

Tokyo, May 18 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Environment Ministry on Wednesday called for actively introducing renewable energy in the Tohoku northeastern region, which was devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051800529

South Korean Cities Wooing Japanese Firms

Seoul, May 18 (Jiji Press)--South Korean cities are wooing Japanese companies that are considering moving production out of Japan in the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051800596

Diet Debates on Reconstruction Bill to Start Thurs.

Tokyo, May 18 (Jiji Press)--The ruling Democratic Party of Japan and the top opposition Liberal Democratic Party agreed Wednesday that Diet debates on draft basic legislation for the reconstruction of areas ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami will be launched on Thursday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051800713

Architect Ando, Nobel Laureates Launch Fund for Disaster Orphans

Tokyo, May 18 (Jiji Press)--Renowned architect Tadao Ando, Nobel laureates and other notable Japanese figures on Wednesday launched a scholarship foundation aimed at raising a total of one billion yen over 10 years to support children orphaned by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051800775

China, S. Korea Leaders to Visit Disaster-Hit Areas in Japan

Beijing/Seoul, May 18 (Jiji Press)--Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and South Korean President Lee Myung Bak will visit northeastern Japan areas affected by the March 11 disaster before attending a trilateral summit in Tokyo this weekend, it was learned Wednesday. .......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051800800

Lack of Users Hits Elderly Care Providers in Quake Areas

Kamaishi, Iwate Pref., May 18 (Jiji Press)--Elderly care service providers in areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami have been severely affected by large-scale evacuations of residents......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051800921
__________________________
Sankei news

Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 19, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Japanese language speech contest held in Shanghai

Chinese students expressed sympathy for Japan's March 11th disaster at an annual Japanese language contest in Shanghai on Wednesday......

Thursday, May 19, 2011 02:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_01.html

Seismology conference in Iran focuses on Japan

International seismologists are interested in how Japan will use its experience from the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in eastern Japan in its future disaster management measures......

Thursday, May 19, 2011 02:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_06.html

Imperial couple at concert for disaster survivors

The Emperor and Empress have attended a charity concert in Tokyo in support of people who survived the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.....

Thursday, May 19, 2011 07:51 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_10.html

Vienna Philharmonic holds Japan aid concert

Some 100 members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra volunteered for a concert to aid survivors of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami in Japan.....

Thursday, May 19, 2011 09:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_15.html

Govt aims to resettle evacuees by August

The Japanese government plans to finish removing debris near residential zones in the tsunami-devastated areas by the end of August.....

Thursday, May 19, 2011 12:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_16.html

GDP shrinks in quarter of quake

The Japanese economy shrank 0.9 percent in the January to March quarter, reflecting the broad economic impact of the March 11th quake and tsunami disaster.....

Thursday, May 19, 2011 10:59 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_20.html

Automakers shift production days to save power

Japanese automakers will open production lines on weekends and close them on Thursdays and Fridays this summer in their plants around the country......

Thursday, May 19, 2011 14:17 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_25.html

Honda to lay off 400 workers in Brazil

Honda Motor in Brazil says it will lay off 400 workers at its Sao Paulo plant and reduce output due to the short supply of automotive parts in the wake of the March disaster in east Japan......

Thursday, May 19, 2011 14:17 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_26.html

Japan to improve tsunami warning system

Japan's Meteorological Agency says it will set up an expert panel to learn from the lessons of the March 11th disaster and examine how to improve its tsunami warning system......

Thursday, May 19, 2011 17:37 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_33.html

Foreign travelers to Japan down 62% in April

The number of foreign tourists visiting Japan in April fell by more than 60 percent in the wake of the March 11th disaster......

Thursday, May 19, 2011 19:24 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_39.html

Disaster reconstruction bills debated

Japan's Diet has started debating bills to help reconstruct areas affected by the March 11th disaster....

Thursday, May 19, 2011 20:58 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_38.html

S.Korea raises $9 mil. for disaster-hit Japan

A South Korean welfare organization has raised about 9 million dollars in donations for survivors of the March 11th disaster.....

Thursday, May 19, 2011 20:58 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/19_42.html
___________________________
Yomiuri online

Quake volunteers decrease sharply since Golden Week

IWAKI, Fukushima--The number of volunteers helping out in disaster-hit areas has decreased sharply since the end of the Golden Week holiday period, leaving volunteer centers wondering if they will have enough hands on deck as calls for help continue to pour in......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110518005162.htm
________________________
Asahi com

Earthquake challenges basic assumptions of seismology

Northeast Japan may be far more seismologically dangerous than previously thought, according to scientists investigating the Great East Japan Earthquake.......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105180154.html

Lawyers offering free legal helping hand to evacuees

To help those who have lost everything in the Great East Japan Earthquake, legal experts from across Japan are offering free legal counseling to those living in evacuation centers.....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105180155.html
___________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Kan, opposition leaders to hold Diet debate on June 1

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The ruling Democratic Party of Japan and the main opposition Liberal Democratic Party basically have agreed to hold a debate session between Prime Minister Naoto Kan and the leaders of opposition parties on June 1, lawmakers said......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/19/20110519p2g00m0dm080000c.html

Unstable ground threatens mudslides in northern prefectures after quake

Ongoing inspections of ground stability in five northeastern prefectures shaken badly by the Great East Japan Earthquake have uncovered deep cracks and unstable ground in 1,061 spots, it has been learned......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/19/20110519p2a00m0na020000c.html

__________________________
Jiji press

Japan Jan.-March GDP Down 0.9 Pct Qtr/Qtr

Tokyo, May 19 (Jiji Press)--Japan's seasonally adjusted gross domestic product for January-March fell 0.9 pct from the previous quarter in price-adjusted real terms, the Cabinet Office said in a preliminary report Thursday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051900116

Govt Eyes Pay Cuts for Ministers, SDF Staff

　Tokyo, May 19 (Jiji Press)--A planned pay cut for national public servants will cover not only employees at administrative ministries and agencies but also cabinet ministers and Self-Defense Force personnel, government officials said Thursday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051900383

Japan to Revise Down FY '11 Economic Projection

Tokyo, May 19 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government will revise down its economic projection for fiscal 2011 following the release of weak gross domestic product data for January-March, Economic and Fiscal Policy Minister Kaoru Yosano said Thursday. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051900498

41 Pct of Students in Disaster-Hit Areas Seek Local Jobs

Tokyo, May 19 (Jiji Press)--Some 40 pct of graduate and undergraduate students in prefectures hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami are hoping to work in the affected areas, a survey by job information provider Mainichi Communications Inc. showed Thursday. ....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051900596

Japan Reconstruction Cost May Top 30 T. Yen: DIR Chm. Muto

　Tokyo, May 19 (Jiji Press)--It may cost Japan over 30 trillion yen to rebuild the country following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, Daiwa Institute of Research Chairman Toshiro Muto said Thursday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051900631

Foreign Visitors to Japan Decrease 62 Pct in April

　Tokyo, May 19 (Jiji Press)--The number of foreign visitors to Japan in April slumped 62.5 pct from a year earlier to 295,800, the steepest drop on record, the Japan National Tourism Organization said Thursday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051900710

(Update) Visitors to Japan Fall Record 62 Pct in April

Tokyo, May 19 (Jiji Press)--The number of visitors to Japan in April fell 62.5 pct from a year before to an estimated 295,800, the steepest drop on record, the Japan National Tourism Organization said Thursday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011051900925
__________________________
Sankei news

Fujiwara Wharf
Miyako bay, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 21, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Longest period of foreign net buying of stocks

Foreign investors have been net buyers of Japanese shares for a record period of 28 weeks. Analysts say this may indicate they expect an economic recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake......

Friday, May 20, 2011 07:03 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20_05.html

Govt approves plan to resettle quake evacuees

The Japanese government has decided on a package of relief measures for evacuees of the March 11 disaster. They will be implemented over the next 3 months and funded by the recently-enacted extra budget.....

Friday, May 20, 2011 11:34 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20_14.html

March quake mechanism

A Japanese scientist says the March 11th earthquake and tsunami were caused by distinctive movements of nearby tectonic plates.......

Friday, May 20, 2011 12:15 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20_09.html

Brazil students send messages to tsunami survivors

A group of students in Brazil has sent messages written in Japanese to cheer up children affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami that hit northeastern Japan......

Friday, May 20, 2011 15:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20_23.html

Bank of Japan maintains easy monetary policy

The Bank of Japan has decided to maintain its easy monetary policy to help the country's economy recover from the March 11 disaster......

Friday, May 20, 2011 16:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20_24.html

Miyagi strives to save rice farming

Efforts to resume rice planting have begun in parts of Miyagi Prefecture that were ravaged by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.........

Friday, May 20, 2011 18:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20_29.html

Government picks 16 new conservation sites

The Japanese government will add 16 sites, including 2 beaches in quake-devastated Miyagi Prefecture, to the list of places to be conserved for their natural or aesthetic values......

Friday, May 20, 2011 18:55 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20_28.html

Japan PM strives to regain neighbors' confidence

The Japanese Prime Minister will try to show Japan's neighbors that tourism and food in the country are safe. South Korean President Lee Myung Bak and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao will visit areas hit by the March 11th earthquake.......

Saturday, May 21, 2011 02:44 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/21_01.html

Over 10,000 out of work in Iwate's coastal areas

More than 10,000 people are out of work in coastal areas of Iwate Prefecture since the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.......

Saturday, May 21, 2011 10:06 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/21_08.html

S.Korean, Chinese leaders arrive in Japan

South Korean President Lee Myung Bak and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao have arrived in Japan to attend a 3-way summit to be held on Sunday.......

Saturday, May 21, 2011 13:23 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/21_14.html

S.Korean, Chinese leaders visit Miyagi

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and South Korean President Lee Myung Bak visited disaster-stricken Miyagi Prefecture ahead of a 3-way summit in Tokyo......

Saturday, May 21, 2011 16:26 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/21_16.html

Wen thanks tsunami hero

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao has expressed gratitude for the acts of a Japanese man who saved several Chinese trainees from the tsunami disaster......

Saturday, May 21, 2011 17:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/21_17.html
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Yomiuri online

Job creation in disaster areas ineffective

The number of people in Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures who have lost jobs because of the Great East Japan Earthquake brings home yet again the serious employment and business conditions in disaster-hit areas.....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110519005279.htm

Sign language news for disaster victims on line

A Web site featuring sign language news related to the Great East Japan Earthquake has been launched for hearing-impaired disaster victims to provide them with information necessary to function after the disaster......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110519005178.htm

Quake survivors struggle to secure housing

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--Many of the people whose houses were destroyed in the March 11 earthquake and tsunami--more than 110,000 remain in evacuation shelters--cannot find rental housing, and many are building their own prefabricated houses in desperation......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110519004725.htm

Part of Ishinomaki Line back up

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--Train service resumed Thursday between Maeyachi and Ishinomaki stations, both in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, more than two months after it was halted by the March 11 disaster.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110519005366.htm

Jobless claims surge in Tohoku

Employment remains gloomy in Tohoku two months after the Great East Japan Earthquake, with the number of people filing for unemployment benefits in three prefectures since the disaster exceeding 106,000, according to a Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry tally. ....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110519005343.htm

Nishioka's article spurs moves to unseat Kan

Moves to oust Prime Minister Naoto Kan are gaining momentum within the ruling and opposition parties, spurred by a Yomiuri Shimbun article written by House of Councillors President Takeo Nishioka that openly demands Kan's immediate resignation......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110520005166.htm

Lopsided lighthouses, and worse

The March 11 earthquake and tsunami severely damaged nearly half the coastal lighthouses and other navigation signal facilities in disaster-hit areas, according to a regional coast guard office.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110520005021.htm

Over 2,000 safes brought to Miyagi police since quake

SENDAI--More than 2,000 safes have been turned into police in disaster-ravaged Miyagi Prefecture, but many remain unclaimed, it has been learned......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110520005330.htm
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Asahi com

Miyagi police traumatized by search for dead, missing

Dealing with the dead and searching for the lost have taken a terrible emotional toll on police in Miyagi Prefecture in the aftermath of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105190158.html

Banks grant 10,000 loan deferments to quake victims

Regional banks in disaster-hit Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures have granted more than 10,000 loan deferments to victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake, worth hundreds of billions of yen, an Asahi Shimbun survey showed. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105190168.html

Japan, China, S. Korea to agree expedite disaster relief

Japan, China and South Korea are expected to agree during the May 22 trilateral summit to create a framework for quicker acceptance of emergency rescue teams and relief goods. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105190165.html

U.S. academic Curtis blasts Kan, Japanese politicians

Gerald Curtis, a professor at Columbia University in New York, sharply criticized Prime Minister Naoto Kan's post-disaster performance during a speech in Tokyo on May 18. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105190368.html

Official: Tax hikes possible to fund post-quake reconstruction

Tax increases to finance rebuilding in the quake-ravaged Tohoku region are on the table, according to the chairman of an advisory panel to Prime Minister Naoto Kan tasked with reconstruction planning. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105190160.html

Jobless in the disaster-hit prefectures tops 100,000

A total of 106,461 people in three disaster-stricken prefectures were jobless as of May 13, according to a survey by the labor ministry. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105190162.html

Survey: 30% of disaster-hit fishermen in Miyagi Prefecture plan to leave industry

Nearly 30 percent of fishermen in disaster-hit Miyagi Prefecture plan to leave the industry, a move that could have a profound effect on the nation's supply of seafood, according to a survey. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105190167.html

Delegates assure tourism summit Japan safe to visit

LAS VEGAS--A large delegation from Japan appeared at the Global Travel & Tourism Summit to assure industry officials that travel to Japan is safe. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105200161.html

Record decline in visitors to Japan in April

The number of foreign visitors to Japan in April plummeted to 295,800, down a record 62.5 percent from a year earlier, according to data released May 19 by the Japan National Tourism Organization. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105200158.html

Upper House president's demand for Kan's resignation stirs controversy

Upper House President Takeo Nishioka's escalating calls for Prime Minister Naoto Kan to resign have gained support from some lawmakers, but others say he is simply a "lonely" politician desperate for some attention. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105200159.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Number of foreign visitors to Japan plunges 60 percent in April

The number of foreign travelers to Japan dropped by a record 60 percent in April from a year ago apparently due to safety concerns in the wake of the devastating March 11 earthquake and tsunami and amid the ongoing nuclear crisis in northeast Japan, it has emerged......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/20/20110520p2a00m0na004000c.html

Order up: Restaurateur couple serving hot meals, hope for recovery in disaster area

SHINCHI, Fukushima -- A couple operating a small restaurant here has pledged to stay in business even though their neighborhood has been reduced to rubble by the deadly earthquake and tsunami that hit northeastern Japan on March 11.......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/20/20110520p2a00m0na008000c.html

March 11 quake triggered dynamic overshoot of fault

The magnitude 9.0 earthquake on March 11 released enormous power along a plate in the focal area and caused a huge overshoot of a fault, according to analysis by a group of experts......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/20/20110520p2a00m0na011000c.html

Rice planting with compost to improve tsunami-damaged soil begins in Miyagi

SENDAI -- Rice planting tests using special compost designed to improve soil damaged by the March 11 tsunami began in the Miyagi Prefecture city of Ishinomaki on May 20.......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/20/20110520p2a00m0na016000c.html

Donations received by Japanese diplomatic missions top 6.7 bil. yen

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan has received about 6.74 billion yen in donations from foreign governments, private-sector groups and individuals to help reconstruction efforts in the country following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, the Foreign Ministry said........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/21/20110521p2g00m0dm006000c.html

Teachers post names of students who didn't donate quake relief money

ODATE, Akita -- Two junior high school teachers here came under fire after displaying the names of students who did not donate money for the victims of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami in their classrooms........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/21/20110521p2a00m0na013000c.html

China, S. Korea leaders tour devastated Japan region

NATORI, Japan (AP) -- The leaders of China and South Korea, in Japan for a weekend summit, toured Japan's devastated north Saturday to show their support for earthquake and tsunami recovery efforts.......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/21/20110521p2g00m0dm048000c.html

Chinese student returns to quake-hit Japan to contribute to international ties

While many foreigners have left or stayed away from Japan in the wake the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear disaster, one Chinese exchange student in the nation's disaster-hit northeastern region has returned to continue her studies and help build a bridge between Japan and China..........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/21/20110521p2a00m0na015000c.html

Struggling from lack of teachers, Miyagi Prefecture employs retired instructors

Facing a shortage of teachers due to the March 11 disasters, Miyagi Prefecture has employed retired teachers on a part-time basis, but is still short of help.........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/21/20110521p2a00m0na016000c.html

Signs of big quake emerged in February

Seismic activity began increasing in mid-February in an area about 50 kilometers north of the epicenter of the March 11 magnitude 9.0 earthquake, and shifted southward before the big quake, a study has found......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/21/20110521p2a00m0na020000c.html

________________
Jiji press

BOJ Keeps Interest Rate Target Unchanged

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--The Bank of Japan decided to keep its interest rate target unchanged at a two-day monetary policy meeting ended on Friday.
The central bank's nine-member board decided, by a unanimous vote, to hold its unsecured overnight call rate target at zero to 0.1 pct.......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052000402

Japan Offers to Host 2012 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--Japan has asked relevant countries to hold the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in Tokyo in October 2012, Finance Minister Yoshihiko Noda said Friday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052000442

Japan to Clear Housing Area Debris by End-Aug.

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--Japan aims to clear debris in housing areas from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami by the end of August, the government said Friday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052000496

Edano Rises to 2nd Choice for Next Japan Leader: Jiji Poll

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano was picked as the second best choice to be Japan's next prime minister in a Jiji Press survey released Friday, up sharply from 11th two months earlier. ........

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052000651

Supply Chain Constrains to Ease around Early Autumn: BOJ Chief

　Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--Supply chain constraints posed by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, and ensuing power supply shortages are expected to ease around early autumn, Bank of Japan Governor Masaaki Shirakawa said Friday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052000690

Some 70 Pct of Japanese Want New Prime Minister: Jiji Poll

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--Nearly 70 pct of Japanese people want Prime Minister Naoto Kan to quit immediately or after dealing with the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami and the nuclear crisis, a Jiji Press opinion poll showed Friday. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052000706

Japan Female Workers at Record High in 2010

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--The number of female employees in Japan hit a record high of 23.29 million in 2010, due to a increase in nonregular workers, according to a government report released Friday. ......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052000843

Kan Eyes Diet Session Extension for Another Extra Budget

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan said Friday that his government may seek an extension of the current Diet session to submit another supplementary budget for postquake reconstruction......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052001031

LDP, New Komeito Eye No-Confidence Motion in Early June

Tokyo, May 20 (Jiji Press)--The Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito are considering jointly submitting a no-confifence motion against the cabinet of Prime Minister Naoto Kan in early June, sources close the opposition parties said Friday. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052001106

Obama, Kan to Meet in France on Thursday

Washington, May 20 (Jiji Press)--President Barack Obama is set to hold talks with Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan in Deauville, France, on Thursday afternoon, the White House announced on Friday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052100153

China, South Korea Leaders Encourage Japan Disaster VIctims

Natori, Miyagi Pref., May 21 (Jiji Press)--Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and South Korean President Lee Myung Bak on Saturday visited Miyagi Prefecture in the Tohoku region of northeastern Japan to encourage victims of the powerful earthquake and tsunami that ravaged the region on March 11. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052100198

U.S. Firms Supplying Allergy-Friendly Foods to Disaster-Hit Areas

New York, May 21 (Jiji Press)--U.S. food makers have started to supply allergy-friendly foods for free to Japanese victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that ravaged the northeastern part of the country. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052100307
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Sankei news

panorama photo

Natori city, Miyagi pref
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0520tera/

cleaning
Uo town, Ishinomaki city

makoto · May 22, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Recovering drifting boats

A crane ship has been returned its home port of Kamaishi in Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, after drifting at sea for 2 months since the quake and tsunami on March 11th.....

Sunday, May 22, 2011 01:15 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/21_21.html

Around 24,000 dead or missing after March disaster

The number of dead or missing as a result of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami, including subsequent aftershocks, as of Saturday stands at 24,027.....

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/22_01.html

Companies suffer heavy losses from March disaster

Japanese companies have suffered heavy financial losses as a result of the March 11th earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis......

Sunday, May 22, 2011 04:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/22_02.html

Wen invites young quake survivors to visit China

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao has invited 500 young Japanese survivors of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami to visit China. He said he wants to offer them a place to refresh themselves, both physically and mentally......

Sunday, May 22, 2011 17:08 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/22_15.html
____________________
Yomiuri online

1,400 residential areas at risk because of March 11 damage

More than 1,400 locations in residential areas are in danger of landslides and other accidents as a result of damage from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, according to the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110521002708.htm

180,000 participate in Shizuoka tsunami drills

SHIZUOKA--About 180,000 people participated in tsunami evacuation drills organized by the Shizuoka prefectural government on Saturday morning, more than 25 times the number that joined in similar drills last year......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110521003011.htm

High tides flooding quake-sunk land

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi--Flooding has been a regular occurrence in some neighborhoods in Ishinomaki recently, but it has nothing to do with torrential rains--high tides now inundate land that was sunk by the Great East Japan Earthquake......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110521002527.htm
_____________________
Asahi com

Iwate girl who lost her mother to tsunami performs in Tokyo

A high school girl who lost her mother and grandmother in the Great East Japan Earthquake was met with thunderous applause at a charity concert in Tokyo after performing the hit song "Makenaide" (Don't give up) on her trumpet. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105210139.html

Lee and Wen visit quake-hit area

The leaders of China and South Korea offered prayers for the victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake during visits to the disaster zone on May 21. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105210138.html
_____________________
Jiji press

Wen Hopes for SMAP Concert in China

Tokyo, May 21 (Jiji Press)--Visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with the five members of popular Japanese male pop group SMAP on Saturday night and said he will heartily welcome a SMAP concert in China.......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052200009
________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Rikuzentakata city, Iwate pref

makoto · May 23, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Japan, China, S.Korea hold business summit

Business communities in Japan, China and South Korea have agreed to work together to build a cooperative system on disaster management to learn lessons from the March 11th natural disaster.......

Monday, May 23, 2011 05:16 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/23_02.html

Boat washed ashore by tsunami moved back to sea

A fishing boat washed ashore by the March 11th tsunami has been moved by a floating crane to waters off Miyagi Prefecture.......

Monday, May 23, 2011 14:36 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/23_21.html
___________________
Yomiuri online

Diverse support given to earthquake victims

People and organizations from hundreds of kilometers away are extending their hands to survivors of the March 11 disaster, offering support to everyone from scholars to soccer players. ......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110522002907.htm

Living in damaged houses / Disaster victims endure unsafe structures, lack of utilities

Many people are continuing to live in homes severely damaged by tsunami in the March 11 disaster, despite the risk of collapse from aftershocks and in some cases a lack of water and electricity. .....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110522002543.htm

Understaffing stalls donations / Local govts need help to distribute money to disaster survivors

A manpower shortage is hampering the distribution of 84.3 billion yen donated at home and abroad for survivors of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. .....

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110522002943.htm

Only 30% of donations reaches victims

Only about 30 percent of money donated to help victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami has reached people in the hardest-hit prefectures of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima, The Yomiuri Shimbun has learned.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110522002795.htm
___________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan, S. Korea eye reviving economy, tourism of quake-hit areas

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Naoto Kan and South Korean President Lee Myung Bak agreed Sunday to join hands in helping Japan's northeast revive its economy and tourism as the Tohoku region and the rest of Japan continue to reel from the effects of the devastating March 11 earthquake and tsunami........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/23/20110523p2g00m0dm037000c.html

___________________
Jiji press

INTERVIEW: Japan Economist Seeks Consumption Tax Hike for Reconstruction

Tokyo, May 23 (Jiji Press)--Japan needs to raise the consumption tax rate to secure funds for reconstruction after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, and reforms of the nation's social security systems, Ryutaro Kono, chief economist at BNP Paribas Securities (Japan) Ltd., has said in a recent interview with Jiji Press......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052300317

Market Prices of Rice Soar after March 11 Disaster

Tokyo, May 23 (Jiji Press)--Spot market prices for rice cultivated in 2010 have soared in Japan due to concerns about possible supply shortages for this year's crop due to the impact of the March 11 disaster and the nuclear crisis.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052300697
______________
Sankei news

Yamamoto town, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 24, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

China opens door to foreign travel companies

The Chinese government says it is allowing three foreign companies to participate directly in the country's travel market for the first time.......

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 07:05 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_04.html

Student orchestra stages charity concert

A student orchestra staged a charity concert on Monday at a college near Tokyo, to support the reconstruction of areas hit by the March 11th disaster........

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 09:42 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_11.html

Placido Domingo offers donation to quake-hit Japan

Placido Domingo and the Los Angeles Opera company have donated 200,000 dollars to people in Japan affected by the March 11th quake and tsunami......

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 12:22 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_17.html

Metropolitan Opera holds charity concert for Japan

In New York, musicians from the Metropolitan Opera held a charity concert on Monday to support reconstruction in Japan after the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.....

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 16:36 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_24.html

Toyota's output to be 90% of pre-disaster level

Toyota Motor plans to raise its domestic output next month to about 90 percent of the pre-disaster level, moving up the maker's production recovery timetable.....

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 16:36 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_27.html

Yosano lowers 2011 growth forecast to 0.6 %

Japan's economic and fiscal policy minister says the nation's economic growth is likely to slow down significantly this fiscal year because of a decline in industrial production after the March 11th disaster......

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 16:36 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_29.html

Belgian artist opens charity exhibition in Tokyo

A Belgian artist known for his flower arrangements has opened a charity exhibition in Tokyo for victims of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.....

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 19:47 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/24_35.html
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Yomiuri online

Lone pine may be seed of forest's rebirth

MORIOKA--The terrifying force of the March 11 tsunami left only one tree standing from a forest of 70,000 in Rikuzen-Takata, Iwate Prefecture. Today, scientists are using that same tree in their efforts to bring back one of the nation's most beautiful sights.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110523003977.htm
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Asahi com

Knowledge held by seismologists should be used to change society

In 1997, Katsuhiko Ishibashi, professor emeritus of seismology at Kobe University, coined a phrase as a warning about the possibility of a complex disaster triggered by an earthquake striking a nuclear power plant. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105230125.html

Boat returns to sea after being landlocked by tsunami

KESENNUMA, Miyagi Prefecture--A longline tuna fishing boat returned to the sea on May 23, almost two-and-a-half months after it was swept ashore by the March 11 tsunami. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105230129.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

5-10% salary cuts agreed for central government employees

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government and a union representing central government employees agreed Monday to cut monthly salaries by 5 to 10 percent and bonuses by 10 percent to secure funds for the reconstruction of regions hit by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/24/20110524p2g00m0dm002000c.html

Record-low 91% of new university graduates get jobs in April

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The employment rate of new university graduates at the April 1 start of fiscal 2011 edged down 0.7 percentage point from the year before to match the record-low 91.1 percent recorded in 2000, as the March 11 quake and tsunami hit employers' sentiment, the government said Tuesday......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/24/20110524p2g00m0dm003000c.html

Tokyo metropolitan gov't to adopt summertime working hours from July

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Tokyo metropolitan government plans to introduce summertime working hours for its employees from July to help the capital's economy reduce electricity consumption and save energy, sources familiar with the matter said Monday......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/24/20110524p2g00m0dm009000c.html

Ex-Sri Lankan soldiers return favor from 2004 in helping restoration efforts in Japan

ISHINOMAKI, Miyagi -- Former Sri Lankan soldiers are engaging in restoration efforts here in return for the Japanese government's support following the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami........

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/24/20110524p2a00m0na002000c.html

Disaster hampers university students' job search amid the 'ice age' of employment

As the employment rate for new university graduates at the start of fiscal 2011 edged down 0.7 of a percentage point from the year before to match the record-low 91.1 percent recorded in 2000, many students are distressed over their bad timing or worried about their potential employers withdrawing their job offers.......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/24/20110524p2a00m0na010000c.html
______________________
Jiji press

Job-Securing Rate Matches Record Low for Japan College Grads

Tokyo, May 24 (Jiji Press)--The job-securing rate for Japanese college students who graduated this spring stood at 91.1 pct, matching a record low also marked in fiscal 1999 when the employment situation was severe in the wake of a financial crisis in the country, a government survey showed Tuesday.......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052400362

DPJ Tokyo Not to Seek Law to Cut Vending Machines' Power Use

　Tokyo, May 24 (Jiji Press)--Democratic Party of Japan members of the Tokyo metropolitan assembly said Tuesday they will not submit to a June session a bill to cut power use of soft drink vending machines........

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052400563

DPJ Accepts Opposition Proposal over Reconstruction Agency

Tokyo, May 24 (Jiji Press)--The government and the ruling Democratic Party of Japan on Tuesday accepted a proposal by opposition parties to revise legislation for reconstruction of areas devastated by the March disaster so that it can be enacted by parliament soon......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052400627
____________________
Sankei news

Osaka city officer at Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 26, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

Expert: March tsunami traveled at 20km/h in Sendai

An expert says a tsunami triggered by the March 11th earthquake traveled at a speed of 20 kilometers an hour in the Sendai Plain, northeastern Japan, making it difficult for people to escape after they saw the wave.....

Wednesday, May 25, 2011 01:09 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/25_01.html

Ambassador: Japan working to restore production

Japan's ambassador to the United States says his government is doing all it can to help normalize corporate production activities in the aftermath of the March 11th earthquake and tsunami......

Wednesday, May 25, 2011 10:21 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/25_11.html

Japan posts 1st trade deficit in 3 months

Japan registered a trade deficit in April for the first time in 3 months due to a sharp export decline following the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.....

Wednesday, May 25, 2011 14:08 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/25_22.html

Govt sets daytime summer power cuts

The Japanese government is to restrict power usage by factories and other major consumers this summer in areas covered by the Tokyo and Tohoku power companies.......

Wednesday, May 25, 2011 14:51 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/25_21.html

OECD forecasts Japan GDP to shrink 0.9% this year

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, or OECD, forecasts that Japan's economy will shrink 0.9 percent this year due to the devastating disaster in March....

Wednesday, May 25, 2011 20:02 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/25_36.html
________________________
Yomiuri online

Mentally disabled feel job pinch due to quake

MIYAKO, Iwate--The job market has been painfully tough for mentally disabled people in areas affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, as many of them have been laid off or seen markets for their products and services vanish due to tsunami-wrought destruction......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110524004419.htm
__________________________
Asahi com

Low-paying jobs give hope to quake victims

KESENNUMA, Miyagi Prefecture--A former drug sales company employee who lost his job after the March 11 disaster is happily clearing mud from victims' homes while earning 750 yen ($9.30) per hour for his hard work. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105240125.html

Fund allows investors to back disaster-hit companies

A Tokyo-based investment fund company has set up a special fund that hooks up individual investors directly with companies devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105240138.html

Government reaches quick agreement on pay cuts for civil servants

In an unusually expedient manner, the government and labor unions affiliated with Rengo (Japanese Trade Union Confederation) agreed May 23 on the rates of salary cuts for central government civil servants.....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105240149.html

Study: 210 evacuation centers in danger of landslides

Landslides are a threat to at least 210 evacuation centers in the three prefectures most affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake, a government land study has found. ....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105240132.html

Town official risked life to capture crucial moments

MINAMI-SANRIKU, Miyagi Prefecture--Dramatic images have emerged from the massive tsunami of March 11 from a town official who evacuated to the rooftop of a three-story building and kept taking photos until the wall of water engulfed him.....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105240147.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan envoy thanks U.S. for postdisaster help in Congress

WASHINGTON (Kyodo) -- Japan's ambassador to the United States thanked the country Tuesday for help in relief work following the catastrophic March 11 earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan during a congressional subcommittee session......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/25/20110525p2g00m0dm110000c.html

Miyagi gov't wants Tohoku region to carry out capital's crisis management functions

SENDAI -- The Miyagi Prefectural Government is set to urge the national government to relocate some of Japan's capital functions to the quake- and tsunami-hit Tohoku region in northeastern Honshu as part of its restoration plan, local government sources said.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/25/20110525p2a00m0na005000c.html

Divisions among Japan Post companies hobbling recovery efforts in disaster areas

Strict legal divisions between the smaller companies under Japan Post Holdings Co. have seriously hobbled the company's efforts to restore full postal services in disaster-struck northeast Japan......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/25/20110525p2a00m0na007000c.html

Gov't poised to ease mandatory summer electricity savings

The government is poised to ease mandatory electricity savings this summer for 30 types of businesses and institutions including hospitals, railroads, and semiconductor factories to minimize the impact on people's lives and corporate activity, it has been learned......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/25/20110525p2a00m0na010000c.html

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Jiji press

Japan Should Use Disaster to Fortify Economy: Envoy

Washington, May 24 (Jiji Press)--Japan should turn the devastation caused by the March 11 massive earthquake and tsunami into an opportunity to rebuild and strengthen its economy, Ichiro Fujisaki, Japanese ambassador to the United States, said Tuesday. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052500364

(Update) U.S. Official Sees Basis for Japan's V-Shaped Recovery

Tokyo, May 25 (Jiji Press)--A senior U.S. Treasury Department official said Wednesday that he sees the basis for a "V-shaped" recovery in Japan's economic activities over the summer after the slowdown caused by the March 11 catastrophic earthquake and tsunami. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052500561

Shirakawa Rejects Govt Bond Underwriting by BOJ

Tokyo, May 25 (Jiji Press)--Bank of Japan Governor Masaaki Shirakawa flatly rejected suggestions on Wednesday that the BOJ should underwrite Japanese government bonds to help public spending on reconstruction after the March 11earthquake and tsunami. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052500810

INTERVIEW: Keidanren Chief Criticizes Kan Govt

Tokyo, May 25 (Jiji Press)--The administration of Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan has been "very backward-looking" since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, Japan Business Federation Chairman Hiromasa Yonekura said in a recent interview......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052500854

OECD Cuts Japan Economic Outlook for 2011 Due to March Disaster

Tokyo, May 25 (Jiji Press)--Japan's economy is projected to fall 0.9 pct in 2011 in real terms, against a 0.8 pct rise estimated in April, due to the impact of the March disaster, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said Wednesday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052500904

Japan to Ease Power Limits for Hospitals, Railway Operators

Tokyo, May 25 (Jiji Press)--Japan's industry ministry decided Wednesday to ease mandatory limits on summer power consumption for hospitals and railway operators in areas covered by Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> and Tohoku Electric Power Co. <9506>. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052500989
___________________________
Sankei news

panorama photo

after 3 major earthquakes
Sakae, Nagano pref
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0524sakae1/
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0524sakae2/
*3/12　03:59 +6(JMA Seismic Intensity)
*3/12 04:31 -6
*3/12 05:42 -6

Sakae

makoto · May 27, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

BOJ to cut FY2011 growth forecast

The Bank of Japan is expected to revise downward its forecast of the nation's economic growth for this fiscal year as a result of the March 11th quake and tsunami. But it is likely to project a return to the recovery track as early as autumn.....

Tuesday, April 26, 2011 07:54 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/26_01.html

Prince and Princess Akishino encourages volunteers

Prince and Princess Akishino have offered encouragement to health care volunteers who are helping survivors of the March 11 disaster.....

Thursday, May 26, 2011 14:19 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/26_19.html

Survey of debris left by tsunami starts at port

Fisheries experts have begun examining debris left in the bottom of a bay in Iwate Prefecture after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.....

Thursday, May 26, 2011 15:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/26_22.html
__________________________
Yomiuri online

IN THE NEWS / New NHK anchor given big role in midst of crisis

Tomoko Kogo--the first woman to anchor NHK's lead news program since Miyuki Morita 12 years ago--had been on the job only a week when she was sent to cover the March 11 earthquake and tsunami on the ground......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110525005667.htm

Community ties link disaster-hit neighbors

MORIOKA--Many residents in tsunami-hit areas of Iwate Prefecture have opted to live in groups at houses in their neighborhoods rather than stay at shelters, preferring to ride out the tough times with acquaintances in communities they are familiar with......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110525004754.htm

Some power-cut goals eased / Hospitals, railways not subject to summer energy-saving targets

Hospitals, railways and about 30 other public services will be exempt from a 15 percent power-reduction order to be imposed on major electricity consumers serviced by Tokyo Electric Power Co. and Tohoku Electric Power Co. this summer, the government announced Wednesday......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110525006392.htm
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Asahi com

March 11 tsunami latest natural disaster for 88-year-old survivor

OFUNATO, Iwate Prefecture--Hitoe Yamazaki still finds a way to smile despite acknowledging that she seems to have been born under a bad sign......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105250362.html

Key sign in predicting major quake not detected on March 11

While the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11 was unexpected in many ways, it also had one very expected element for predicting an earthquake in the Tokai region that apparently didn't occur. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105250146.html
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Children finding it hard to study by themselves at evacuation shelters

HIGASHIMATSUSHIMA, Miyagi -- Children taking shelter in areas devastated by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami are having a hard time finding places to study by themselves after many schools resumed normal classes earlier this month following the "Golden Week" holiday period, instead of at the start of April......

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/26/20110526p2a00m0na004000c.html

Over 300 medical institutions in coastal areas hit by tsunami not operating

More than 300 medial institutions in coastal areas of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures have been forced to close or suspend their operations in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, it has been learned.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/26/20110526p2a00m0na012000c.html

Online clothing donations turn into fashion packages for disaster victims

A Tokyo resident has launched a project using the Internet that provides clothes catering to the individual tastes of women living in areas hit hard by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami free of charge.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/26/20110526p2a00m0na018000c.html
_____________________
Jiji press

Kan Thanks Obama for U.S. Postquake Support

Deauville, France, May 26 (Jiji Press)--All Japanese people deeply appreciate U.S. support following the March 11 catastrophic earthquake and tsunami, Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan told U.S. President Barack Obama here on Thursday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052700047

Japan April Corporate Service Prices Down 0.8 Pct

Tokyo, May 26 (Jiji Press)--Japan's corporate service prices fell 0.8 pct from a year before in April, the Bank of Japan said Thursday......

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052600123

Japan Sees Surging Demand for Energy-Saving Home Electronics

Tokyo, May 26 (Jiji Press)--Shipments of energy-saving home electronics are increasing sharply in Japan amid growing efforts among consumers to conserve electricity, industry officials said.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052600783
___________________________
Sankei news

Ishinomaki city, Miyagi pref

makoto · May 27, 2011

Re: Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

OECD Ministerial Council meeting ends

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has called on member nations to work for sustained economic recovery, citing the March 11th disaster in Japan as a new risk for the world economy.....

Friday, May 27, 2011 15:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_23.html

Japanese auto output dives 60% in April

Domestic vehicle production by Japanese automakers plunged in April, following the March earthquake and tsunami......

Friday, May 27, 2011 17:25 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/27_31.html
_____________________
Yomiuri online

Marine debris hampers fishing

Fishermen trying to resume their trade after the March 11 tsunami have been plagued by the massive amount of debris the disaster left in the sea, but cleanup efforts have been hampered by a lack of reliable information on both the amount and location of debris.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110526005611.htm

Miyagi areas devising restoration plans

Fifteen coastal towns and cities in Miyagi Prefecture battered by the Great East Japan Earthquake are formulating their own restoration plans, The Yomiuri Shimbun has learned.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110526006118.htm

Iwate Pref. OK's handover of unclaimed cars

The Iwate prefectural government will allow 12 municipalities in the prefecture to hand over to auto wreckers unclaimed vehicles damaged by tsunami following the Great East Japan Earthquake.......

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110526005174.htm
____________________________
Asahi com

Sichuan quake victims reciprocate for Japanese disaster aid

TAGAJO, Miyagi Prefecture--Survivors of the Great Sichuan Earthquake in 2008 will never forget the support they received from Japanese. ......

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105260177.html

Tumbler doll becomes symbol of resilient Tohoku region

AIZUWAKAMATSU, Fukushima Prefecture--A tumbler doll, a popular piece of folk art in the prefecture, is in great demand as a symbol of the tenacious mettle of locals and the reconstruction of the Tohoku region. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105260167.html

Sake maker to put out one last bottling from his devastated brewery

OSAKI, Miyagi Prefecture--A sake maker whose brewery was devastated in the Great East Japan Earthquake will make one last bottling of his coveted drink before its buildings are razed. .....

http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201105260170.html
__________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

GSDF member dies during disaster relief mission

SAPPORO (Kyodo) -- A Ground Self-Defense Force personnel died early Friday in Iwate Prefecture during a relief mission in the disaster-hit area, the GSDF said.....

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2011/05/27/20110527p2g00m0dm118000c.html RIP

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Jiji press

Japan Municipalities Seek Tsunami Evacuation Buildings

Tokyo, May 27 (Jiji Press)--The giant tsunami in northeastern Japan on March 11 has spurred moves to secure tsunami evacuation buildings by local authorities in other regions with coastal areas, it was learned Friday.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052700841

Disaster-Hit Areas Should Be Special Reconstruction Zone: Keidanren

Tokyo, May 27 (Jiji Press)--The Japan Business Federation proposed Friday that the government designate all areas hit by the March 11 quake and tsunami as a special zone for reconstruction, in order to create new communities, rebuild industry and revive agriculture.....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052701012

Land Prices Fall across Japan after March Disaster

Tokyo, May 27 (Jiji Press)--A downtrend in land prices affected mainly commercial areas in Japan during the three months to April 1, due to the impact of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, a government survey showed Friday. .....

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2011052701019
_________________________
Sankei news

panorama photo

after 3 major earthquakes
Sakae, Nagano pref
*3/12　03:59 +6(JMA Seismic Intensity)
*3/12 04:31 -6
*3/12 05:42 -6
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2011/0524sakae3/

Prince and Princess Akishino
Otsuchi town Iwate pref

Japan - Major Earthquake Magnitude 9.0 on Mar 11, Many thousands dead & missing - March 27+

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