Video Review: Figure Skater Yuzuru Hanyu Visits Quake-Hit Central Japan

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Yuzuru Hanyu is the world renowned figure skater, who won Two Olympic Gold Medals and two World Championship Titles among others. Recently he visited the earthquake-devastated Wajima area to express his sympathy and solidarity with those affected by the quake.

 

Fig. Hanyu walks around the devastated Wajima.


Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=fA1AC3saxp4&t=90s

Figure skater Hanyu visits quake-hit central

 Japan

Nippon TV News 24 Japan

 


Fig. Wajima 

source: Google Earth modified by the author


Memorable Scene 1: An Elderly Woman’s Resilience


Fig. 06:45. An elderly woman on the right

 tells her story.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=fA1AC3saxp4&t=90s

Figure skater Hanyu visits quake-hit central Japan

Nippon TV News 24 Japan


An elderly woman shared her experience  (translation by the author):

 “The damage to my house was fortunately minimal, and I can still live there. However, when relief goods were distributed to survivors, I hesitated to go and receive them.”

Hanyu responded empathetically: 

“I understand that feeling.” 

It’s worth noting that Hanyu himself lives in the Tohoku area and personally experienced the Great Tohoku Earthquake 11 years ago. His presence in Wajima carries a deeper significance.

Memorable Moment 2: A Lighthearted Interaction


 Fig. 06:34 Students are surprised by Hanyu's unexpected visit.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=fA1AC3saxp4&t=90s

Figure skater Hanyu visits quake-hit central

 Japan

Nippon TV News 24 Japan

During a surprise visit to a junior high school, Hanyu engaged with students. When the teacher announced that they could ask questions, the students decided through a game of janken (rock-paper-scissors) who would pose the query. The question they settled on was surprisingly simple: “What is your favorite food?”

 

Fig. They do rock, paper and scissors to decide who would ask question for Hanyu.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=fA1AC3saxp4&t=90s


Figure skater Hanyu visits quake-hit central

 Japan

Nippon TV News 24 Japan


This seemingly trivial moment reveals an interesting cultural nuance. In Japan, raising a question in public can be challenging, yet this particular inquiry transcended those barriers. However, I contend that posing a question in public is not easy in other cultures either. Hanyu’s response? 

“Fish, Natto, and Tonkatsu.”

Conclusion: A Gesture of Respect

As a world-renowned athlete, Hanyu’s visit to the quake-hit region deserves our respect. His empathy, resilience, and willingness to engage with the community exemplify the spirit of compassion and solidarity.

  

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