What Fukushima's Nuclear Exclusion Zone is Like Today

It's been 12 years since the Fukushima Nuclear disaster and the $200bn clean up effort is still ongoing. We revisit the exclusion zone for the first time in 4 years to see first hand.
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Edited by:
Eiiji Okawa, David Parish, Marcus Canning (Chris Broad)
Camera by: @PaulBallard
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[@noahwhite7848]

I love that Chris is showcasing parts of Japan that are less appealing on the surface and yet still have hidden charm. I’m sure the local economies appreciate it too

[@Inked_Bee]

Hes not helping the local economy by giving us an insight to the area. You're watching the video and one / two people don't do anything for the economy - they're just tourists passing through for content. While its cool he is showing Fukushima, its not beneficial to the public. Please choose your words and thoughts more wisely when posting.

[@blossomlotus2019]

You are the most aggressive typer on this video I've seen so far. What Chris is doing here will help them out, even if small businesses are slowly starting up, having people visit the habitable parts will encourage them. That's the whole theme of the video if you actually watched it. Hope and preservation.@@Inked_Bee

[@Dave17101]

​@@Inked_BeePerhaps you should take your own advice a keep yours to yourself.

[@Linuxpunk81]

​@@Inked_Beethe comments from actual Japanese people tell a different story.

[@blankadams3120]

I watched a video recently exploring why Japanese people enjoy Chris' videos, and that was one of the big reasons, if I remember correctly... that he has an appreciation for small towns and emphasizes people should visit.

[@boisbois2947]

Chris is the type of guy to make a high-quality documentary about a serious topic and follow it with the silliest video you've ever watched. That's one of the reasons I fell in love with your channel. Keep up the good work!

[@AbroadinJapan]

The next one is certainly silly: Ryotaro’s in it after all!

[@likemike751]

I would like him to do an episode on the stalker situation in Japan I heard it’s really bad. I know it doesn’t really fit with the type of content he makes but I feel it would open a lot of eyes

[@saldiven2009]

@@likemike751 Maybe discussing the Mayu Tomita story, for example. I doubt she'd be willing to be interviewed, though, despite the event happening 7 years ago. The Tomita incident led to some changes in the law in Japan regarding stalking, but it's still not taken seriously by police. Earlier this year, Sana Tominaga was killed in Japan by her ex-boyfriend. She had previously called the police on him multiple times to report stalking, and the police only gave him a warning and asked his family to keep an eye on him.

[@kv4648]

​@@likemike751that's something Joey might cover. The new tax laws are actually more impactful and closer to what he focuses on but even that is still a reach

[@likemike751]

@@kv4648 joey?

[@aaronpaul8007]

I gotta say it now Chris has the best channel showcasing a country Not only the trends but also covering the things which were somewhat forgotten All this without being a nuisance to the Japanese people and their culture Hats off

[@StAngerNo1]

Yes, that is very important. In the last decade the number of foreign tourists in japan has increased a lot (I think something like 3x) and many only know the bright and quirky side about japan with anime, weeb culture, robot cafes and such. To many of them japan has become something like a real life theme park. It is important to show all sides (even the darker ones) to give people realistic expectations, have them appreciate and experience also the traditional cultre and not only the pop-culture and remind them that it is a real country with real people and real problems that want to be respected.

[@Felice_Enellen]

I think it's all down to the fact that he so clearly respects and loves Japan and wants it to flourish.

[@user-st9ov4cq4v]

I'm a Japanese from Namie Town and lived and grew up there until I was 16 years old. Thank you for sending the current situation of my hometown to the world. I only have a chance to go back when I visit the grave of my grandmother who died soon after I was born and my grandfather who died in 2016, but I hope I can live there again someday.

[@ReptilianTeaDrinker]

I hope you get to live there again someday. Wish you the best!

[@duichakkayvromon]

Hey man. I wish you would be able to live there once again...

[@rqwb-]

As a Japanese I cannot thank you enough, like really. All these years of bs which still is going on today (you know) and you shed a light to this whole thing once again. Thank you.

[@Susan-nm3sx]

Hi, don’t worry, 😊 we don’t all believe the BS that’s spread around any more, but, yes, the truth should be broadcast. 🖐🏻🇬🇧

[@Gigi-zr6hp]

​@Susan-nm3sx same sentiments as you, cheers

[@goclunker]

Yes, TEPCO BS really is too much

[@mesa69]

I feel like we don't appreciate enough the amount of work Chris does with every episode on Journey Across Japan, thanks Chris for bringing out the gems within Japan! Amazing work mate!

[@thexbigxgreen]

Imagine that he used to do all of the daily editing himself as well, eh? Now he has a team of 3-4 editors!

[@psychologyforgeeks]

I recently started to do my own youtube videos and now I can really appreciate everything that goes into making just one video! I'm using his videos as the gold standard!

[@BleachDemon707]

I feel like we don't condemn sycophantic, para social commenters as much as we should 🙄

[@kekaeva750]

🤦🏻‍♀️

[@Achaemus]

​@@BleachDemon707or obvious trolls looking to garner a reaction

[@davebeat]

It only hit me just how much time has passed when you said Wakana Yokoyama was a former elementary student at the time of the disatster and now is a local guide. It's great to see the area slowly coming back to life you've really got to adimre the spirit of the locals.

[@doubtful_seer]

That certainly made me feel... very old. lmao

[@MrKata55]

Have you watched the recent "Suzume no Tojimari" by Makoto Shinkai? One of my favourite parts about this movie, is though it depicts a supernatural plot, it's a metaphor for a range of very real stories that happened here in Japan since 2011... I would even go as far as to try calling it "a documentary in disguise", but that would probably underserve real documentaries like the ones made by NHK World Japan...

[@davebeat]

@@MrKata55 I haven't but it sounds interesting. Thanks for the recommendation.

[@MrKata55]

@@davebeat You're welcome. Also, half a year ago you would've had a chance to watch it in cinemas if you're living outside Japan :)

[@player1GR]

Bad reactor, bad engineering

[@amlannanda4023]

We need more youtubers like Chris who actually help society in their own way.

[@ironhell813]

It’s been a dream of mine since I was 8 to live like this, hopefully soon I’ll join Chris as one of those “new age Japanese”

[@Mryodamiles]

Absolutely insane that its been 4 year since your Fukushima vid came out. Time flies

[@marcogirardi1710]

I had to check. It really has been 4 years ... crazy!!

[@EximiusDux]

I blame a certain virus appearing at the end of 2019 and making life weird for 3 years. It's as if those years flew by.

[@AbroadinJapan]

*JOURNEY ACROSS JAPAN CONTINUES* Historically this topic usually tanks the KZbin videos SO PLEASE give it a like guys! ‘Controversial’ subjects on here don’t often get shared on the platform. Given we're traveling 2,000km across north Japan, there's no way we could miss the most talked about region in Tohoku along the way. We revisit Fukushima's exclusion zone to see how life has changed since our last visit in 2019, from Ukedo elementary school to the town of Tomioka. Obvioulsy we only had one day for this one, but I'm glad with what we were able to see and the chance to meet Yokoyama san. See you for the next episode tomorrow guys! And for the previous Fukushima documentary (shot with a lot more time), check it out here! kzbin.info/www/bejne/j3XZfJ59ZquHmLcsi=mKdbrKDQm_gxSAmT

[@noahwhite7848]

Props for showcasing something most people would shy away from 👍 Keep the gold coming Mr. Affable!!!

[@onlydistant]

Keep up the hard work and inspiring and fun adventures, we are all excited to see what is next to come!

[@ElderNewt]

Chris. Was you able to meet you friend who ran I believe a "inn" - she was in your previous videos. You know if she's doing well still?

[@Epsilonsama]

The fact that you guys were able to do this video in such a short time is something impressive.

[@Meurieza]

this is a more entertaining video, good job on the camerawork

[@4RILDIGITAL]

Thanks for shining a light on the Fukushima exclusion zone, its people, and the ongoing efforts to bring life back to the region. Fukushima's resilience truly symbolizes the unyielding spirit of Japanese people.

[@Warynn]

This is why I became a patreon member of Abroad in Japan! I really love the documentary that you made, the quality and care for the subject shown is outstanding.

[@AbroadinJapan]

Thank you Warynn, much appreciated! 🙏

[@MajorHeck75]

For all the shit Chris gives himself, and others do too sometimes, you need to give him credit for really setting himself apart from other content creators in Japan by doing this sort of thing. Many props to you @abroadinjapan. Great work.

[@ThisIsTheInternet]

Like how Small Brained American just did a video on this yesterday?

[@JennRugg]

agreed, I hope he gave up on the ridiculous expectation of a posted video everyday. Personally i would rather watch him enjoy his trip and see what happened later then know he is stressed, exhausted and burning himself out. How will he do nice things for Sharla if he is all grouchy? (lol - jk). Chris is you read this - self care is important, you will not lose viewers if you can't produce a video everyday. Have a great time and let us live vicariously through you, show us new and old things and just be you nothing more and nothing less. We already love you

[@pinkmiku12]

@@JennRugg he has like 6 editors, he told us he wasnt working himself to death for this series

[@DyI7]

Abroad in Japan is one of the most calming, exciting and quality channels I have ever come across. and I've been here since 2012.

[@naturesfinest2408]

It really is. I enjoy the consistent quality content and information with some humor. It is a breath of fresh air. In a youtube era of shouting "funny haha" it is really nice to see. Im not saying there shouldnt be humor, just that it is well balanced.

[@lady_pumpkin]

As much as I like the wacky hijinks, I feel this is where Chris's talent as a videographer really shine. The amount of work that he puts into making great documentary like these an into showing us these parts of Japan that we rarely see is why I keep coming back to this channel!

[@diggysdungeon]

For all the fun and jokes we get on the Abroad in Japan channel, it's always videos like this one that most remind me how incredibly good Chris and his team are at this. Talking to the locals and shining a light on the region while never failing to handle it all with the sensitivity and care that it needs. Another fantastic video and another reminder why the channel deserves every last bit of success it receives.

[@DeltaEntropy]

Just that first shot rising up from the sea wall over the trees blew me away

[@U8gat3IjNbqM]

素晴らしい動画をありがとうございます😭 震災(人災)から10年以上経過した今、福島原発事故について日本人でさえ多くは語らなくなりました。長年、日本に住んでいるイギリス出身のクリスさんだからこそ、日本を客観的に分析出来るのだと思います！ 今後とも日本をよろしくお願いします🙇‍♀️

[@darkwolfe4999]

My father passed away of a heart attack on the 1st, watching these videos as they come out has been a nice distraction I look forward to every day. The Fukushima area is a somber topic, but I like that you make it hopeful and how much it's obvious you care about the area and Japan in general. His passing has really brought things to the forefront of my mind, how I'm not really doing much with life, and I know living well isn't a list of achievements to brag about. But I am already 27, and I feel like I haven't been trying to live life as much as I should, if that makes sense. I've been following your videos since 2018, and your work ethic is admirable, and you've firmly secured Japan as a must visit travel destination, eventually. You're really inspiring, and I just wanted to say thanks for being you and putting yourself out there in the world and youtube. I've really enjoyed watching you, Natsuki, Ryotaro, Connor, Pete, Sharla, Joey, and everyone else over the years. So yeah, thank you.

[@dominiquemattern4515]

My condolences 😢 I know these are just some words from some internet stranger, but I hope that you will get better soon! The channel "Kurzgesagt" has a related video titled "What are you doing with your life?". It will probably make you cry (as it did with me 😅) but it also encourages one to get up and fulfil your dreams. Stay safe ❤

[@BlueCrashFigurineHoldingWumpa]

[@mario98730]

So glad Chris took the time out to make another video on Fukushima. Not only is it awesome to compare the video from 4 years ago and see how much Chris has grown as a filmmaker, but to see so many improvements to the living conditions there really is a beautiful thing. The only thing harder than the physical act of repairing something is changing the bad perception so I’m glad people like Chris Wakana and Daiju are working to change that

[@cronotriggered4314]

I was lucky enough to be able to visit the Fukushima Daiichi plant in person, and you absolutely nailed the atmosphere. Standing in the middle of a town whose people up and vanished, where despite nature being allowed to grow unchecked the seeds of community have only just begun to sprout up through the cracks again. And while towns like Namie may take decades fully recover, providing a small window into live in the exclusion zone goes a long way to change the stigma that still surrounds it.

[@skilitzki2692]

Is there anything that Chris can't do? My god the sudden change of vibe from touring around less visited areas of Japan with a mix of sarcasm and comedy to a full on documentary highlighting the disastrous events that happened before and how locals are recovering is just astonishing, well done Chris! I'm very glad with how well you've mastered every aspect of content

[@KMP]

I live in Seoul and the Accident happened when I was 8 years old, The weather Forecast displayed radioactive rains for several weeks and still people has exaggerated fear of japanese radiation. I hope the reconstruction progress would go well to leave a good example for the next generation

[@demi-fiendoftime3825]

I'm in the United states and have lived near a nuclear plant my whole life thats been open since the 80s but thanks to this disaster it scared everyone into not renewing the Plant to continue further into the 2030s despite the jobs and clean electricy it has provided this region for four decades all because of media sensationalism of disasters like this and Hollywood always negatively depicting nuclear power has made people parnoid of the power plant. Everyone espacly the people who surive nightmares like this need to make it clear acidents like this are terrible but they're not comon that nuclear power is safe and that we should trust it and use it responsibly and not let tragedies like this scare us into runing away from one of the most powerful clean energies we have. And this is why im such a huge fan of Kyle Hill he does a great job educating people all about nuclear power

[@SuperCatacata]

@@demi-fiendoftime3825 Nuclear powerplants always will have the most overblown phobia surrounding them. Like you said, you can thank the media for that. Burning fossil fuels has led to so many more deaths that it's not even comparable.

[@damienchiew4074]

I hardly tear up even in emotionally moving movies or touching films yet somehow this episode manages to make me well up. Great job Chris. Keep up the good work that you and your team does! -from a Canadian friend who moved to Osaka following some inspiration from some of your videos. Haven't gotten to buying your book yet but I sure plan to!

[@randomblonde4706]

Honestly, Chris' videos/documentaries about Fukushima are among my favorites of his videos.Not to say that I don't enjoy the rest of them, I truly love the Journey Across Japan series as a whole, but these ones hit different. His videography skills shine through, I love how he always gets the perspective of locals and shares their experiences and more importantly I love the fact that, despite the horrifying nature of the situation, they always seem to give out a hopeful feeling, a feeling that people will find a way to rebuild,to live again, to create again. Keep it up Chris and never stop doing videos about the things you want, ''controversial'' or not!

[@ankr3w1]

I got my mother, who never had interest in Japan besides the food, following these daily uploads on the journey. And now we're gonna plan a trip for her birthday in a few months. Been following for 10 years, Chris. Love everything you do.(Edit) I for sure bought the book.

[@jarnMod]

1:00 That shot gives me goosebump This episode is beautiful through and through, from how it's filmed, narrated, made, everything is beautiful.

[@ArchieBlacke]

Yeh that shot was amazing! Considering the team are on a road trip and have time constraints, bravo to the director/cameraperson for picking it out.

[@skammie5]

yes, I had to replay that cinematic shot....*chef's kiss*

[@Orzorn]

Chris, I always appreciate the respect and deferment to the people involved when you interview them. You so humbly listened and heard Wakana's story and let her make her own case for how to bring people back. You truly are giving a large voice to people than they could have had alone, and without twisting it for internet likes. This is the kind of stuff that made many of us, myself included, fall in love with your way of storytelling many years ago.

[@beanieweenees8105]

Man, i genuinely shed a tear. Chris, the way you present everything and show everything, really hits the viewers. Thank you for showing us how Fukushima is now. Hopefully, you will show us their progress down the future.

[@karindv9477]

I love that you include more documentary style videos on this JAJ. Really enjoyed this video. Crazy that it's been 4 years already! Looking forward to the next video. 😊

[@jellibeans4440]

I really appreciate how chris always meets local people during his travels, its so nice to get their perspective, and it must be so cool to have those kind of connections and memories all throughout japan

[@stunner388]

The opening shot where the drone flies above the trees where you're standing and the reactor is right there is shockingly beautiful. Well done on another great video about the area.

[@leigh8130]

I love Chris' dedication to showing the revitalization of this area of Japan. These people have suffered so much and it is great to see some of the hard work that has gone into making the area safe and productive again.

[@TravelGeeq]

While this always breaks my heart to see, I'm so glad we have people like Chis to bring a beautiful comeback story to light. You've done a great service to the people of Japan and you should be proud of the work that you have done.

[@BushyBrowsHD]

I urge people to watch Kyle Hill's video on the Fukushima disaster as well and the 3 mile island nuclear accident. People need to know the accurate details on how and why these accidents happened and that nuclear power should not be stigmatized. Nuclear power still remains the safest and most efficient form of power generation.

[@papapepe2232]

Thanks Chris for covering this topic. I feel the efforts by the locals don't get enough attention. The positive things done and creativity certainly inspite of the disaster is definitely worthy of the attention you have given to this community 🙏👍👍

[@Trehlas]

These are honestly some of my favourite videos on this channel. The wacky stuff, sure it's funny and fun. But Chris is a great storyteller and these videos are truly informative

[@MinasanKonnichiwa777]

As a foreigner living in Kansai region of Japan, I've always found the Tohoku region very special. Earlier this year I made a trip to Tohoku but unfortunately couldn't accommodate a visit to Fukushima. I want to make a second trip to Tohoku and this time definitely spend some time in Fukushima. Few months back I looked into the exclusion zones and the places which are still accessible. I found that there are areas within the exclusion zone where one can drive through but not get off the car. Since I don't drive a car, that seemed like an issue. But I found that a lot of the train stations on the JR line have re-opened in the recent years, such as Namie and Futaba. They are unmanned station with very few people actually using it. Hopefully I can visit some of these places soon.

[@user-wc1rs9ms3q]

we are waiting for you to come back!

[@joshuabb7449]

This series is my highlight this December! Better than christmas itself great work chris and team

[@lottefrp3683]

That first shot where the camera moves from Chris on the sea wall to show the plant so so close. I exclaimed out loud. Stunning videography and really impactful. It might be the best shot I've ever seen on your channel Chris. Great video, only wish it was longer!

[@TapMasterC]

I was fortunate to have been able to visit Ukedo Elementary and the Fukushima Disaster Memorial Museum when I went on vacation in Japan this October. One of the reasons I went was because of Chris's documentary 4 years ago. Thanks for inspiring me to have this life-changing experience that I otherwise would've overlooked, Chris. I highly encourage anyone to go and visit the landmarks and the area as a whole.

[@NuSpirit_]

Dude... I thought it will be like funny trip across Japan with jokes and bad situations, I didn't expect basically full blown short TV documentary with such a quality of storytelling and editing. wow...

[@Harry_f_Wight]

A tough topic, dealt with a delicate touch. No typical J.A.J. intro or outro, and I think that was the right choice. Another great video, and I can't wait for the rest of this series! Thanks for all your hard work!

[@Zsy6]

I wasn't sure if you would be able to cover a topic like this during a Journey Across Japan series, but this was thoughtful, well put together, and had some breathtaking shots. Thanks for doing it justice.

[@Squirtler]

some incredible drone shots in this series, he seems to have a great eye for it? it's kinda mad honestly also love the videos

[@sonnyson01]

I always appreciate these kinds of videos, thanks Chris and team! A poignant yet extremely hopeful video! I'm very excited to visit Fukushima and the rest of Tohouku when I visit in 2025!

[@ggkaosd6988]

I’ll never forget this day. It was 10pm around my spot in California. Japan was in the prime of their day. I was at a bar with friends hanging out and enjoying our time off. I saw this and I had to leave, I knew I would kill a vibe if I stayed. I went home and I cried for a very long time about this. I’ll never forget it.

[@apache4137]

Thank you so much for all the work you do Chris. This really hit my soul and I feel for the people and there suffering. As a service member for over 12yrs I have seen very horrific things in my time, everything from starvation to the brutality of war. It hurts my soul to see good people suffer. Thank you so much for showing everyone this. That light dose come after what seems endless darkness. Love your content Chris. ❤

[@Boertje247]

I have worked as a volunteer in the north, and these people are amazing. They openly share their often harrowing stories, in tears, and are cracking jokes and good-naturedly ribbing their friends the next minute. I love this part of Japan, the people, kids, oldsters and young folks who want to revitalize this area. Thanks for a great video, Chris!

[@kenziedayne4234]

I really love this series of follow ups. Normally in the news we only ever see the tragedies and we never get to see what happens after. Thank you for following this for so long and sharing it with the world.

[@Jonnooriginal]

This video makes me want to go visit those areas. It's shocking and alarming to see the extent of the damage, but the love, compassion, and motivation of the people who have decided to bring life back is truly endearing.

[@Vulgarities]

Chris, your first visit to the Fukushima exclusion zone is by far my favourite video you've done - thank you so much for the follow-up. More serious tone videos are most welcome! This type of content is underrated and you really deserve praise and recognition for this!

[@spookyshran5274]

this was a really beautiful episode, abroad in japan creates a lot of funny, light-hearted content, but it's always really nice to see more serious pieces like this, it's genuinely heartwarming to see this lovely community trying to make a comeback

[@joneschri]

I visited Ukedo and Futaba earlier this year, and they were two of the most sombre places I have ever been, but also one of the most beautiful. It is great to see it coming back to life, and seeing people move in again. The street art is especially beautiful

[@DakodaOK]

Your work in the documentary and in this episode combined with Kyle Hill's explorative documentary of the Fukushima plant and the zone around it makes for such an interesting pairing of commentaries on the difficulties of the revitalization projects going on and, more specifically, of those projects surviving and thriving in the face of public local and international scrutiny. Thanks for such sincere coverage. It's genuinely interesting to see people making efforts to build from a would-be-nothing back into something meaningful. Especially when it'd simply be easier to give up and say "Nothing can be done."

[@loganhanssen6004]

I want to thank you for all the videos you did of the Fukushima Nuclear disaster. I watched CNN back in 2011 when the earthquake hit Japan and the Tsunami. You said more about the Fukushima Nuclear disaster than anyone. I appreciate it. You did an impressive job.

[@Ezmarii997]

Thanks so much for the content! Once again, the team is doing great with the short form videos. I also love that Takahashi-san left politics to get into business of trying to bring life and people back to the area and specifically his words of encouragement to embrace younger generations to seek out an opportunity to express themselves with new unique ways to bring population and life back to the area.

[@LordJupiter1]

Seeing this well made documentary as part of the Journey Across Japan series was unexpected, yet truly a great experience. I think Chris has an enormous amount of talent and vision. This is definitely one of the best videos I have seen on this platform. Thank you Chris and the rest of the team for your amazing work on this update to the Fukushima exclusion zone.

[@icelaenl]

Hey Chris! I'm lucky enough to finally be visiting Japan next year (and even luckier to be able to pay for my dad, who's never left North America, to come with my partner and I). We're planning to spend a few days of our trip in and around Fukushima, and probably would never have thought to if it weren't for your awesome documentary coverage of the area. Can't wait to see it, and can't thank you enough for inspiring us to come visit!

[@mandeep3.14]

Wow. That’s amazing. Congrats

[@user-du3iu9nq7e]

日本に来るの嬉しい！ ありがとう！楽しんでね！

[@whatsmax8409]

You are always welcome here

[@marciashiraishi5891]

Welcome to Japan! I hope you have a good time here, thank you! ❤

[@icelaenl]

ありがとう！ 訪問するのが楽しみです！@@marciashiraishi5891

[@AcousticProfit]

I loved your original documentary, and this follow-up is wonderful. Thank you for highlighting the recovery. It gives me hope for humanity to see everyone band together.

[@waraidako]

Anyone can make a documentary about Fukushima rabbling off facts, "In 2011 a tsunami hit, it was this magnitude, this amount of water crashed in, so and so many people died, so and so many people were evacuated, it caused X amount of dollars worth of damage." but that's not going to connect with basically anyone. What makes Chris' videos so special are the personal touches. Going to the school and showing the graduation banner, the messages in faded chalk on the blackboard, the workers digging in the fields 12 years after the fact, a local girl who lost her grandparents in the tsunami asking the government for hospitals and pharmacies to help make the town comfortable to live in again, people trying their best to restart the local economy despite the unfounded misgivings of the world around them. These are the things which add the necessary human element that makes it real for people. Fantastic video as always, Chris.

[@alexb2773]

I am really enjoying the more mature take on everything Japan has to offer in this new series. It feels like you have really honed your skills Chris, kudos!

[@ClassyOnionUK]

I recently re-watched your original documentary about this and have sent to a lot of family and relatives. I think it's so important that we see what it really is like. Thank you for your unique insights into different areas of Japan but especially this one!

[@user-pf5uj4zg8j]

改めて色んな思いが込み上げ涙なしには見られませんでした😭 ありがとうクリスさん😭✨✨

[@katoy16]

Your Fukushima video was the first video I saw from you and that made me subscribe to your channel. Thanks for making that video and for this update!

[@skinny0408]

This Journey must be so much effort, hats off to the team and Chris for creating such memorable videos, the quality is beyond believe.

[@elkevera]

Still having the pictures in front the inner eye, still remembering where I sat and watched this disaster unfolding, still having your video from 4 yrs ago in my head, still watching again today with tears running down my face. Thank you Chris, this stands for the unbroken spirit of the Japanese. ☮

[@TheAHuman]

I have been glad to see KZbinrs talking about nuclear power plants recently and not making them sound like they are a bad thing. As someone who has done quite a bit of research into nuclear plants, Fukushima was a 1/1000000 exception. It is heartbreaking to see a place that has experienced such a tragedy, but as this shows, we can move on from tragedy. Nuclear power is and always will be the best form of energy production. It is a green energy source, the most reliable all day all year long, and produces the most power per hour of any source.

[@angelicad7]

Thank you Chris for revisiting the area and updating what their effort looks like as well as your input/feelings in the changes that occurred since your last visit.

[@dan.94.]

I’ve seen nearly all your videos Chris, but this was the first to make me well up. Fantastic work here, gang - Keep it up! Much love from Australia.

[@decimat_ixn]

the thing about chris is that he doesn't just make silly travel vlogs about how wacky japan is. he also educates people and goes deep into the history of this country and it's always nice having this genuinely refreshing whiplash of serious content on top of the silliness on this channel. it's awesome to see that there's progress in the rebuilding of Fukushima after 4 years but as he says, it's a long way to go to see where things will be. hopefully we get to see an update video in another 4-5 years!

[@japantoamerica]

I moved to the USA a long time ago. I always wanted to see a video of Koriyama in Fukushima, where I grew up. But when I saw your documentary, I realized there was something more important to show than my old town. You did a great job of raising awareness. I admire your work and your team. Well done! 👏👏👏

[@salsalsalsalsalsal3094]

I love this kind of video from you. It's refreshing that you take the time to research the situation and let the locals tell their side of the story. Thanks for this

[@MichaelNaydeck]

Chris, it's been amazing over the years watching you transform from a KZbinr into a full blown filmmaker who not only shares a unique perspective on a place he loves but also maintains you connection with your audience. I started watching this when I was "home sick" for Japan. We are planning on moving back in a few years once my son has established himself as an adult in the US. Thanks for this and most of your videos. Mostly thank you for taking for a long Journey Across Japan, into the mindset, and into the wild wacky world of being an ex-pat.

[@mendo5459]

I like these documentary style videos, they're really insightful and interesting. You feel like you properly learn something new about parts of Japan you don't normally see. Well Done.

[@CDBlackmage]

The documentary from four years ago is still one of my single favorite pieces you've ever done on this channel. I'm glad you got a chance to revisit the area and give a bit of an update from the ground level. Thank you for this!

[@MarioReischer]

I remember seeing your Fukushima documentary and I was in awe. In awe with your amazing work, in awe with the powerful feeling the disaster left in me and the swelling of empathy you enwoke with your shots and commentary. Great work. Thank you!

[@RanDom-II]

When the US media is all so negative, this series across Japan is like a well needed rest stop to fill up with positive vibes of hope and renewal. Great job guys and many thanks. Can't wait for the next episode.

[@LucidaMonoceros]

I'm so happy you did another video in and about Fukushima. Your documentary four years ago was very inspiring and well made and I enjoyed every minute of it - back then and now as well. It's refreshing to see a variety of videos in your journey this time - most of them being funny and entertaining and this one being a lot more serious but also at the same time entertaing as well. Been following you for many many years now and can't wait to see more stuff like this!

[@diogogaspar8120]

One thing I will definitely do once I visit Japan is visit Tohoku. Hidden marvels left right and center. Seeing this video and revisiting your now 4 year old one, it brings me joy to see the light of hope on the locals is shining even brighter. Sensational job as always Chris 🔥

[@TheAquilaSamurai]

From the amount of stuff covered in this video and the quality, it is hard to believe that this video is only 13 minutes long. Huge props to the editors who put this together.

[@Rahimske]

I honestly feel like Chris hit a new level this year where he became the greatest KZbinr of all time. The level of production, the story telling, the direction, the audio, the visuals, the knowledge he transmits about Japan, and frequent uploads. This man literally does it all. We need to respect him.

[@tastymuesli9304]

Alright, not even 2 Minutes in and I already gotta give you props for this one, Chris, the callback to the previous documentary via the soundtrack is a stroke of genius on your end and as always, your frames are shot with an impeccable attention to detail! Looking forward to the rest of the video now!

[@dreadsupreme]

THIS is the kind of content I love to see from Abroad in Japan❤❤❤❤

[@Antron89]

Thanks for going back and giving us an update!

[@thesyntaxtree2528]

Great to see you revisit the exclusion zone after such a long time, seeing how things have changed over time, and how other things stayed the same.

[@rebeccaryan8153]

Incredible videography and respectful approach, as usual. I weirdly love that they left the bottom floor in its original state and the memorial/museum for the second floor. Really hammers it home. As someone with close family working in a power plant, and lives in the close-by town, I cannot imagine the sheer terror and grief that occurred as a result of that day. Those messages from students on their graduation day - a lot of them possibly having loved ones working in Fukushima, haunting.

[@Gilraen15]

Great Follow Up Video Chris! Thank You for sharing the current situation in the area...

[@DarknessDust]

beautiful video as always Chris!

[@alexandergiesser]

Fantastic work Chris (and crew!) Can't believe you filmed and churned this out in just a few days. Also a truly Herculean effort of the community to revitalize the area. Can't wait to see it in another four years.

[@jlee1522]

I really hope you do more long-form documentaries where you tell the stories you'd like to share about Japan. I thought your original Fukushima documentary 4 years ago was excellent, and another deep update would be great. The locals and everyone wanting a great recovery to the area seem to all want to tell their story and encourage people to come visit again.

[@datlam7836]

Absolutely love the quality of work you continuously put out. It was interesting to see the difference in 4 years. You interacting with the locals is always interesting to see as well.

[@munn3y440]

love this episode! felt like a mini follow up documentary. I know you've mentioned on the podcast that you plan on doing more documentary style videos and I can't wait to see them.

[@GaiusGear]

My older brother and his family were in Japan during all of this. I still get emotional remembering how we were calling to make sure they were safe when all of this was happening. The amount of work and hope these people have to revitalize the area is astounding and I wish them nothing but good luck and safety.

[@hyugo1359]

Thank you for the great video chris ! Truly inspirational to see these people rebuild that area

[@Maqwell]

I love your content so much but there's something so special in the care and dedication you put into spotlighting the stories of such a harrowing disaster. Every one of my favorite videos on this channel is one about the recovery efforts after the disaster, they're one of a kind not only just from your channel but from media entirely. Each video is a cathartic experience of emotions that allow us to listen to these stories of horror where residents lost so much, their traumas having become more vivid as time passes, and yet somehow they never lose hope. Thank you Chris.

[@lisahoshowsky4251]

This series is exactly what I needed this month. Your coverage and journey is always so compelling and well done. Thanks for bringing us along again.

[@artbydestroy1364]

Visited the exclusion zone a few years ago on a private dark tour and it was surreal and quite sad. The city was like something out of a dystopian movie. Family marts left with everything inside. Nature started re claiming the city. We even saw deer and wild pigs walking the city streets.

[@veronicaescobedo6441]

Wow! Great episode Thank you for educating us

[@TheYashakami]

Amazing video! Thanks for taking the time to share this experience.

[@j.p.1492]

It's sad that a video like this will tank, your more serious, documentary style videos are my favourites. You take the effort to interact with the locals and share their stories instead of sensationalizing the topic as an outsider. And the quality keeps increasing each time. Really looking forward to your next project :)

[@Felice_Enellen]

It hasn't tanked at all. It's got pretty average numbers for a week-old video actually. Nice to see. :)