SENDAI — Nearly three weeks after the 9.0-magnitude temblor sent shock waves through the city and the massive tsunami devastated a long stretch of the coast, Sendai, the largest city in the Tohoku region, is slowly trying to get back on its feet.
But frequent aftershocks and the tired expressions on the faces of survivors are a constant reminder that the city of 1 million, known for its rich history and abundant greenery, still has a long way to go to regain its former splendor.
The people staying in the numerous emergency evacuation centers — mostly public schools and other facilities in the city's five wards — have been steadily decreasing as many return to their homes or seek other, better accommodations.