Sustainable Support Activities Evolving from Recovery: Birth of New Sport FC11

LOVE FOR NOTO Song of the Earth 2025: A Catalyst for Community Renewal

On November 1-2, 2025, the event "LOVE FOR NOTO Song of the Earth 2025" took place in the Noto region of Ishikawa Prefecture, organized by LOVE FOR NIPPON, a non-profit organization led by Candle June. The event was held at Uchinoura Comprehensive Sports Park, a site bearing heavy scars from past tsunami damage. Local residents collaborated with supporters to restore the venue as part of a broader initiative to reignite community spirit and promote sustainable growth.

The event featured live performances by artists who are dedicated to supporting the Noto area, discussions with support organizations, a local product market, kite flying, and workshops. Despite the rain, attendees participated in a candlelight vigil, writing their hopes for Noto on candles. This gathering aimed not only to commemorate the past but also to encourage collective action towards a thriving future.

Rising from the Ashes: The Birth of FC11

Among the highlights was the debut of FC11, a new sport intended to address pressing demographic issues in Japan, such as declining birth rates and regional depopulation. The first tournament presented an exciting twist on conventional soccer, featuring individual play and creative use of recycled materials, like fishing nets for goals. Local middle school participants received commendations for their enthusiastic efforts.

Candle June emphasized the importance of establishing ongoing relationships in the community and urged that a diverse range of activities—such as live music, markets, and sports—are crucial in drawing people together. This year’s event aims to build a foundation for FC11 as a sport accessible to individuals in depopulated areas, allowing them to participate in local tournaments leading to a national championship in Noto by 2026.

A Vision for the Future

In a broader context, LOVE FOR NIPPON has committed to fostering connections across various disaster-stricken areas in Japan. Establishing FC11 could provide not only entertainment but also a pathway for youth engagement, leading to regional revitalization. Participants remarked on the newly formed relationships and shared understanding they experienced, revealing the potential for innovation and recovery in post-disaster communities.

Candle June believes that survivors can learn from the past to create sustainable futures, crossing barriers while exploring what it means to rebuild and transform communities. The organization's ongoing symposiums gather individuals from different walks of life, including business leaders, students, and volunteers—fostering dialogue around strategies for nurturing new community models.

Continuing Efforts and Community Engagement

Following the excitement of this event, LOVE FOR NIPPON will continue its commitment to supporting Noto, including hosting regular candlelight vigils on the first of each month. Furthermore, plans for future events, including the next SONG OF THE EARTH in March 2026, are already underway. The organization is keen on sharing the narrative of recovery and resilience with the broader public, encouraging holistic engagement with ongoing disaster recovery issues across Japan.

In summary, the LOVE FOR NOTO Song of the Earth event serves as a groundbreaking initiative, blending cultural engagement, athletic innovation, and community rebuilding. It strives to instill hope and foster new connections among individuals and groups, paving the way for a revitalized future in Noto and beyond.