Ishinomaki Revival and Manga Museum: Stone Forest Manga Town Rising from Disaster

Ishinomaki Revival

Ishinomaki, Miyagi, was one of the areas most severely damaged by the March 11, 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake tsunami. However, as the hometown of manga artist Ishinomori Shotaro (creator of Kamen Rider and Cyborg 009), the city has revived as a symbol of reconstruction through its identity as "Manga City."

Highlights

- Ishinomori Manga Museum (Mangakan): Museum exhibiting works of Ishinomori Shotaro, a native of Ishinomaki - Manga Road: Sculptures of Kamen Rider, Cyborg 009, and other Ishinomori characters scattered throughout the city - Ishinomaki Disaster Ruins - Kadowaki Elementary School: Preserved as a disaster ruin conveying the tsunami damage - Hiyoriyama Park: High ground overlooking the city where the tsunami flood extent can be understood

Reconstruction Journey

- After the disaster, residents and outside supporters collaborated to rebuild the brand as "Manga City" - The Manga Museum was repaired and reopened after the disaster

Getting There

- Alight at JR Ishinomaki Line Ishinomaki Station (about 1 hour from Sendai) - Senseki-Tohoku Line direct service from Sendai Station to Ishinomaki Station

Tips

Visiting disaster ruins is an opportunity to directly experience the scale of damage. Please visit quietly and respectfully. The Manga Museum is a well-equipped facility enjoyable for the whole family.