On February 10, 1996, a catastrophic rock fall accident occurred at the Toyohama Tunnel in Hokkaido, Japan, leading to the deaths of 20 people, including 19 high school students who were on a bus. The incident took place just 40 meters from the tunnel entrance and involved around 50,000 tons of rock collapsing onto the bus and a car. Among the victims was 17-year-old Asami Murakami, who was traveling with friends to the Sapporo Snow Festival. Her mother, Michiko Murakami, recalls the harrowing experience of being notified of her daughter's fate a week later when her body was recovered, describing it as a heartbreaking and tragic situation that forever changed their lives.

The article delves into the aftermath of this tragic loss, focusing on Michiko Murakami, now 75, who reflects on the profound grief and solitude that has persisted for three decades. Many parents of the victims have since formed mutual support groups to cope with their shared trauma, indicating the long-lasting impact of such tragedies on families and communities. The victims’ memories are kept alive through various memorial activities, shedding light on the community's collective struggle with this painful past.

In remembering the accident, the article highlights broader themes of loss and resilience, illustrating how the parents continue to advocate for road safety measures to prevent future tragedies. This annual remembrance serves not only as a personal reflection for those directly affected but also as a reminder to society about the crucial importance of safety regulations and community support in the face of such unforeseen disasters.