The cities of Kitakyushu and Sendai in Japan have both released letters in English to people overseas in response to the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in order to ease fears over their local produce and to encourage tourists to return.
Kenji Kitahashi, the mayor of Kitakyushi City, thanked those who had sent messages of support and encouragement. He aimed to reassure readers overseas that Kitakyushu, being over 1,000 miles from the disaster zone, suffered no damage and has no danger of radiation and that “it would be a pleasure for me and all the citizens if we could welcome you to our city.”
Sendai also sought to reassure readers that, although it was damaged by the earthquake and tsunami, its scheduled events would go ahead, including the Tanabata festival later in the summer. They concluded their English language report with the message that ‘fresh and safe vegetables are waiting for you’ along with beautiful scenery and places to visit.
Both messages can be read on our site in PDF form. To read Kitakyushu’s message click here, and Sendai’s you can read the PDF here.
