Japan businesses face earthquake impacts and recovery

Following recent seismic activity in Japan, various local businesses are facing unique challenges and milestones in recovery. In Kumamoto City, an izakaya named ‘Mugi Usagi’ in the Ansei-cho district reported liquid flooding its warehouse floor immediately after an earthquake. While the liquid’s temperature increased and caused humidity and odors within the shop, experts suggested the substance may be a hot spring. Although drainage work has been completed, the establishment remains unable to operate due to necessary repairs.

In Wajima, a local business owner is marking a milestone in the post-earthquake recovery of the Kannon-cho district. Kumiko Urame, who lost both her home and her lounge, ‘Dahlia’, in the Noto Peninsula earthquake, is set to reopen her business in the same location. After evacuating to Kanazawa and working temporarily at another establishment, Urame aims to contribute to the gradual return of nightlife to the area, where approximately half of the pre-disaster businesses have since resumed operations.