On March 11, 2011, Japan was rocked by one of its biggest natural disasters ever. A 9.0-magnitude earthquake and its resulting tsunami caused widespread destruction across the country – entire towns were engulfed, industries destroyed, and lives lost. In its aftermath, Japan persevered in its largest reconstruction effort since World War II, in the face of extraordinary challenges. Discovery Channel commemorates the first anniversary of the disaster with REBUILDING JAPAN, a seven-part special with inspirational stories on the country’s heroic recovery efforts – from rebuilding a whole town from scratch to defending the traditional livelihood of seaweed growing.
REBUILDING JAPAN premieres 5 - 11 March at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT) and airs a different episode each day.
Witness these touching stories captured from a uniquely Japanese point of view, and the emotional drama, bravery, and energy of the Japanese people as they rebuild their lives and country in the following episodes of REBUILDING JAPAN:
Beyond the Tsunami With Ken Watanabe
Premieres 5 March, Monday at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT)
Follow the Hollywood actor as he visits the northeastern region of Tohoku region to observe Japan’s recovery from the tsunami and earthquake. This is the story of one nation’s spirit and resilience as told through the eyes of one of its greatest ambassadors, one with a personal passion to help rebuild his country.
Dreaming of Utopia
Premieres 6 March, Tuesday at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT)
Fllow Futoshi Toba – mayor of a small town called Rikuzen-Takata – as he strives to implement cutting-edge solutions to the town’s problems, while at the same time dealing with the grief of losing his wife in the disaster.
Photos from the Sea
Premieres 7 March, Wednesday at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT)
Watch the efforts of a group of volunteers who have dedicated themselves to restoring and preserving photographs that were lost or destroyed in the tsunami. With the help of modern technology, they hope to return these precious records of better times with loved ones to as many people as possible.
Super Trains
Premieres 8 March, Thursday at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT)
Learn about how Japan’s past experiences have played a part in building up its famous bullet train’s safety, and the sophisticated technology that lies behind its extensive safety system today. Also, take a look at the innovative features that are being devised to further safeguard passengers.
Return of the K-Cars
Premieres 9 March, Friday at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT)
Delve into Japan’s legendary motor industry and the unique sport of racing small and thrifty family vehicles called ‘K-Cars.’ Will there be a place for the nation’s motoring fantasies post-disaster? Perhaps this is a vehicle that will help put Japan back on track, and reinforce the importance of dreams.
Brewing Hope
Premieres 10 March, Friday at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT)
The livelihoods of the residents of Kesennuma centred around brewing sake. Unfortunately, the internationally renowned brewery was destroyed by the tsunami. Following the disaster, it was discovered that a small portion of moromi mash, an ingredient required for sake making, survived.
The Seaweed Makers
Premieres 11 March, Friday at 9pm (8pm BKK/JKT)
Follow a group of generations-old seaweed makers in the Miyagi Prefecture, who are determined to continue the tradition of nori making. Faced with many challenges including radioactive contamination, they hope to once again achieve the honour of supplying their produce to Japan’s imperial family.