The site of the Former Kadonowaki Elementary School marks a traumatic place in recent Japanese History. Located on the coastline of Ishinomaki city, the former Kadonowaki Elementary School was directly in the firing line of the 2011 Great Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami, which struck Japan’s northeastern coast on March 11th, 2011.
The former Kadonowaki Elementary School was severely damaged by the tsunami and subsequent fires ignited by ruptured gas lines and vehicles. Remarkably, due to prompt evacuation procedures, all students and staff present at the school survived, having fled to the nearby Mt. Hiyori.
Today, the former elementary school has been converted into a museum that commemorates the events and aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami. In the main school hall, you can find several displays that showcase the power of the tsunami, with crushed vehicles visible as you walk through the museum. Visitors can also view the preserved, fire-damaged classrooms and facilities from an external passageway, witnessing the raw aftermath of the disaster. You’ll also find samples of the emergency housing that was set up to house the thousands of displaced residents.
For a more in-depth understanding, consider joining an English-guided tour. These tours provide detailed explanations of the site’s significance and the broader context of the disaster’s impact on Ishinomaki. They are well worth taking, but incur an additional cost. Reservations are required in advance for the tours, booked through their official website.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm (Last Entry at 4:00pm)
- Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a Public holiday, then the next day) Also, the 11th of each month, Jun 12, Sep 1 or Nov 5) and from Dec 29 to Jan 3
- 600JPY
- Average Time Spent: 1 hour
- Official Website
Accessing the Former Kadonowaki Elementary School
By Bus: Approximately 12 minutes from Ishinomaki Station via the Yamashita-Kadonowaki route; disembark at Kadonowaki Yon-chome.
By Taxi: Around 10 minutes from Ishinomaki Station.
By Bicycle: About 15 minutes from Ishinomaki Station; rental bicycles are available from ¥600 at Ishinomaki City Hall, Ishinomaki Grand Hotel, and the Ishinomaki Tourist Board.
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