We all know the story about the Fukushima nuclear accident. The earthquake on 11th March 2011 caused a massive tsunami (with 10 meters high waves) that crippled the cooling systems at the Tokyo Electric Power Company’s nuclear plant in Fukushima. It also led to hydrogen explosions and reactor meltdowns that forced evacuations of those living within a 20km radius of the plant due to high radiation levels.

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Empty streets

The cities that suffered the most in were those in the immediate danger zone – Natori, Ishinomaki, Kamaishi, Unfunato, Miyako, Minamisanriku, Kesennuma, and Rikuzentakata. These places were almost level with the ground. Hachinohe and Sendai suffered less but still, the tsunami has caused some serious damage to them. Over 15.5 thousand people were killed. Over 5,000 is still considered missing. Half a million have lost their homes, and 400,000 evacuated.

Half breaking roof at the house

I’m an urban explorer and photographer, so going to the exclusion zone was one of my biggest dreams, which came true in March 2018. However, my happiness from being there and taking interesting photos soon turned into overwhelming sadness with every step in the empty streets full of urban decay.

Abandoned Mercedes next to the supermarket

Enter the red zone – the entrance and the area are secured 24 hours

At first, we planned to spend 3 days there, but eventually, it was just 2 days. The reason was that we tripped a silent alarm in one place and it was received by a police station. Thankfully, we didn’t have huge problems but we had to finish our visit to Fukushima, for which I was actually relieved.

Elementary school – the sports hall was transformed into an evacuation point

Music class

I love abandoned places but being there was just too traumatic. From the moment you step there, you are surrounded by the depth of the tragedy which happened. It was breaking my soul.

Computers’ class

This class was on the 1st floor. The line on the wall is a trace of how high the water was

Wedding center

House

Laundry

Supermarket

Pachinko – Japanese game room

Car dealer

Chevrolet Impala

Lincoln

Funeral car

Restaurant

Bookstore

CD & DVD Shop

Games

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