Guide
The Sendai 3.11 Memorial Exchange Center serves as a vital hub for communicating the wisdom and lessons of the Great East Japan Earthquake to the future and the world. It is a place where the history of the eastern coastal areas of Sendai City, the harsh realities of the disaster, and the personal records of the people who once lived in the community are preserved. The center's primary mission is to facilitate communication and ensure that these experiences are passed down to the next generation.
The area where this facility is located, particularly the Arahamachi district in eastern Sendai, was once a seaside community home to approximately 2,200 people across 800 households. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake, this region was designated as a disaster-prone area. Through various exhibits and events, the center preserves and shares the historical background of this region, the factual reality of the disaster, and the precious records of the lives once lived here.
Inside the facility, visitors can explore exhibits centered on the facts of the disaster and the personal narratives of the local residents. Key contents include thematic display panels such as "The Facts of the 3.11 Site × The Truth of the Heart," and the publication "Umi-be no Furusato (Seaside Hometown) — The History and Memories of the Eastern Coastal Area of Sendai City," which provides a multi-faceted view of the region's journey. Additionally, the center hosts seasonal events and special exhibitions related to local culture and the natural environment.
The facility is generally open from 10:00 to 17:00. However, please note that opening hours may be extended on specific dates; for example, on April 11th, the center remains open until 19:00. Depending on the season, the center also hosts events like the "Seaside Flower Garden Eco-Tour," offering visitors a chance to connect with the local natural environment and ecosystem alongside the historical memory of the area.
More than just a static exhibition space, the center functions as a place for community exchange. It hosts irregular cultural events such as ukulele performances and Rakugo (traditional storytelling), as well as local workshops and eco-tours. A unique local experience is also available: visitors can collect a certificate of ascent for "Hiyoriyama," known as one of the lowest mountains in Japan, right at the Memorial Center.
The center is located in the eastern coastal area of Sendai, a landscape where the current state of the recovery process and the impact of the disaster coexist with nature. The surrounding area features managed biotopes and areas where you can experience coastal vegetation, creating a scenery where the memory of the disaster and the natural environment live together.
When visiting, please maintain a calm and respectful demeanor out of respect for the subject matter. While there are no specific dress codes, we recommend comfortable clothing and walking shoes if you plan to participate in local walks or eco-tours.