Towards the reconstruction of the "Koyasu Kannon," an important cultural artifact of the Obama district.

On August 29th, a groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the Koyasu Kannon was held in the Obama administrative district of Tomioka Town, my hometown.

Koyasu Kannon has long been revered as the Kannon of safe childbirth, and before the earthquake, it was an important place of prayer for the community, with many people coming to worship not only from Tomioka town but also from a wide area of the Hamadori region.

However, it was damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake. Fifteen years have passed since that day, and now we have been able to take the first step towards reconstruction.

This place holds a special place in my heart. I fondly remember playing here with my neighborhood friends during summer vacation when I was little, swimming in the Pacific Ocean and the Tomioka River that stretched out below, and then resting here. It's a place filled with many precious memories from my childhood.

Having grown up over time, it was truly a deeply moving experience to be able to attend the groundbreaking ceremony as an officer of the Obama administrative district.

Completion is scheduled for around March of next year.

The reconstruction of Koyasu Kannon is not just about returning one building. It is also about the resurgence of prayers and memories that have been passed down for generations, and the important culture of the Obama district.

We hope that the rebuilt Koyasu Kannon will continue to be cherished by the local community for many years to come, as a place where people pray for the healthy growth of children and the happiness of their families.