The Japan Institute of Architects is calling on all the UIA Member Section to diffuse and translate an electronic, civic-education tool concerning tsumanis, published by the Japanese government in CD-Rom form.

This CD-Rom was presented by the JIA to the Istanbul forum "Southern Asia Earthquake and Realities", and is designed to inform and educate populations susceptible to experience this type of disaster, and in particular children, on what to do in case of such a disaster.

A cartoon entitled "A tsumani is coming" tells the true story of Hamaguchi Goryo, who lived in the village of Hiromura. Before the gigantic tsunami that followed an earthquake in 1854 arrived at his village, Hamaguchi alerted all the neighbouring villages by burning his crops and led the population to higher ground. After the disaster, the villagers banded together to build a dam to protect their land.

In order to counteract forgetfulness, apprehension, panic, and ignorance, this story illustrates conscious preparation and solidarity as well as the integration of risk and prevention into daily life.

The Japan Institute of Architects
T. (81.3) 34 08 71 25 – F. (81.3) 34 08 71 29
myasuda@jia.or.jp