On the night of the 10th, as the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake approaches, a Candle Night event titled "Welcome back to Futaba" took place in Futaba, Fukushima Prefecture. Organized by the nonprofit organization 'LOVE FOR NIPPON', the event served as a poignant reminder of the tragedy and an opportunity for the community to reflect on its journey toward recovery. The event featured approximately 700 colorful candles arranged in front of JR Futaba Station, symbolizing hope and remembrance for the victims of the disaster.

The event gathered community members and supporters who were moved by the sight of the flickering lights, which encapsulated not just grief but also resilience. The representative of the organization, Candle Jun, expressed gratitude for the attendance, noting the ongoing struggles involved in the town's reconstruction process. Futaba, home to the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, saw its entire population evacuated following the catastrophic events of 2011, which has hindered the area's recovery efforts significantly.

As of March 1, this year, roughly 200 residents have returned to live near the station, a stark contrast to the 7,140 residents that once called Futaba home prior to the disaster. The Candle Night event, which was also set to continue on the 11th, not only served as a memorial but also reinforced a commitment to the long and challenging journey of rebuilding the community and honoring those who lost their lives during the tragedy.