Yesterday, 17 January, Kobe City Hall organized an event to commemorate the Hanshin-Awaji Great Earthquake that 18 years ago claimed more than 6,000 lives, most of whom resided in Kobe. The event started from as early as 5 AM at the park located right in front of the City Hall. I could not see the event in the early morning, but I was managed to be there around 5 PM and went up to the City Hall’s observation floor for the bird-eyed view from the top. Light from candles placed in bamboos created the shape of big 1.17.
After 18 years, families of the victims still could not hold their tears, recalling their great losses of families members. May they rest in peace.
