Tokyo Outlook | Finding a Way Forward by Remembering Japan's Resilience

With only a few weeks until the end of 2024, it's time to reflect on the past 12 months. For our team, a highlight of 2024 was unveiling a new logo at our supporters' gathering in December. The logo, now featured on our revamped website, reflects our commitment to evolving as a unique bilingual media platform while honoring our founding vision.

More significantly for JAPAN Forward, this includes looking back at the articles that resonated most with readers.

The following was the most-read article of the year. Published on January 2, it addressed the earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture on New Year's Day:

New Year's Earthquake: Disaster Resilience is a Societal Responsibility

The earthquake claimed the lives of families and loved ones gathered to celebrate the New Year. It also destroyed homes and entire towns. Coastal areas suffered additional devastation from a tsunami.

The article was written by Robert D Eldridge, an American political scientist and former Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff for Diplomatic Policy at the US Marine Corps in Okinawa.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Eldridge highlighted Japan's vulnerability to natural disasters, making preparedness and the collective power of society even more important to support those in despair and rebuild. Natural disasters continue to teach Japan these critical lessons

In September, the Noto Peninsula faced another challenge: record-breaking rainfall. Despite this, the people there have shown remarkable resilience. They remain determined to recover despite enduring repeated natural disasters.

JAPAN Forward has continued to share their stories of hope and perseverance. This includes efforts to reintroduce the once-extinct Japanese crested ibis, a symbol of recovery.

Ishikawa Soars Towards Recovery Like Its Symbol, the Crested Ibis

Beyond natural disasters, Japan faces other pressing issues. According to the World Economic Forum, 29.3% of Japan's population is aged 65 or older as of 2024, and this figure is projected to reach 39% by 2070. This figure is projected to reach 39% by 2070. This makes Japan one of the world's most rapidly aging society.

Declining industrial competitiveness adds to the challenges. Japan also faces alarmingly low energy and food self-sufficiency rates compared to other developed nations. Can the country find a way forward?

*Fish unloaded at Wajima Port. The first shipment since the Noto Peninsula Earthquake. October 31, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture.*

Drawing Strength from the Past

We believe the answer lies in Japan's history. The nation has overcome wars, destruction, atomic bombings, and defeat in World War II. Japan has repeatedly risen from unimaginable hardship. This is a moment to remember and draw strength from that resilience.

Since the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011, Japan has carried the responsibility of developing next-generation nuclear power plants. These plants must ensure vastly improved safety and stable energy supplies.

They also have the potential to combat global warming and position Japan as a leader in exporting safe nuclear technology. Abandoning these efforts would render past struggles meaningless.

Furthermore, in this super-aging society, digitalization is urgently needed. It is essential for safety, security, and growth. Robotics and construction innovations will also play a key role in earthquake preparedness.

Transformative Thinking for a Better Future

Japan has survived adversity by shifting perspectives. What is needed now is transformative thinking. The country must go beyond conventional ideas to tackle today's challenges. With the right mindset, Japan has the potential to rise once again.

Starting the week of December 22, JAPAN Forward will count down the top 25 most-read articles of 2024. It will be interesting to see which topics captivated readers worldwide. Stay tuned to see if your top picks make the list.

Watch for the next issue on January 20.

JAPAN Forward is a small media outlet, but we also operate two specialized platforms: SportsLook, which focuses exclusively on sports, and Japan 2 Earth, dedicated to environmental issues. To join us in shaping our vision together or for inquiries, please call 0570-033-433 (Sankei iD) or email us at info@japan-forward.com.