#Japan #Yokohama #Fukushima #Solar Sharing #Hiroyasu Kobara

Film Screening Event: 'Farmers of Fukushima and Hope'

On March 9th, 2026, from 1:30 PM to 3:45 PM, a special film screening will take place at Bosch Hall, Yokohama. Organized by the Kanagawa Pal System Cooperative, this event showcases the documentary 'Farmers of Fukushima and Hope' directed by Hiroyasu Kobara. The screening will be followed by a talk where Kobara will share his insights and thoughts on the importance of promoting renewable energy.

The documentary focuses on the challenges faced by farmers in Fukushima after the nuclear disaster. It highlights innovative agricultural practices such as 'solar sharing,' which allows for the cultivation of previously abandoned farmland due to radiation contamination. The film captures the stories of resilient agriculturalists who have revived their land using solar power, showcasing their inspiring journey toward recovery and sustainability.

A Glimpse into Fukushima's Agricultural Revolution

In the aftermath of the Fukushima nuclear incident, many farmers were forced to abandon their fields. The documentary chronicles how these individuals, including Kondo Kei who advocated for solar sharing, have worked to bring their farms back to life. Alongside other farmers, such as Tsukada Haru and Sugano Yuki, they have embarked on projects to cultivate fruit trees and raise livestock on reclaimed land.

By strategically positioning solar panels to create shaded areas, these farmers have successfully mitigated the heat damage caused by increasingly severe summers. Solar sharing not only protects their crops but also provides resting areas for livestock, demonstrating the innovative potential of integrating renewable energy into agriculture.

As the region continues to grapple with the legacy of radioactive contamination and the slow recovery process, Kobara's film sheds light on the aspirations of those striving for food and energy self-sufficiency in Fukushima. The documentary serves as a poignant reminder of the intersection between agriculture and renewable energy, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices in rebuilding the community.

Event Details

• - Date & Time: March 9, 2026, from 1:30 PM to 3:45 PM
• - Location: Bosch Hall, Tsuzuki Ward Cultural Center, Yokohama City
• - Access: A five-minute walk from Center Kita Station on the Yokohama City Subway
• - Capacity: 300 participants
• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Registration Deadline: March 5, 2026

About the Director: Hiroyasu Kobara

Kobara was born in 1964 in Osaka and has directed over 700 video advertisements, primarily in TV commercials. His first directorial film, 'What Japanese People Forgot: The Remaining Japanese in the Philippines and China,' was released in 2020. His second documentary, 'The Judge Who Stopped the Nuclear Power Plant and the Farmers Who Will Stop It,' won multiple awards. In his third documentary, which includes 'Farmers of Fukushima and Hope,' he took on various roles, including producing and writing the lyrics for the theme song.

Kobara's work continues to raise awareness about the dangers of nuclear energy and the resilience of the Fukushima farming community. The event promises to be an enlightening experience that captures the essence of hope and innovation in the face of adversity.

Moving Forward Together

Pal System Kanagawa remains committed to ensuring that the impact of the nuclear disaster is not forgotten, while continually supporting the residents of Fukushima. This event seeks not only to share a powerful story but also to foster community engagement and dialogue about the future of agriculture and energy in Fukushima.

For further information and to register for the event, please visit the Pal System Kanagawa website.