As with many tourism programs worldwide, COVID-19 is impeding the Hope Tourism project that covers areas affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant meltdowns.

Those involved with the project worry about a missed opportunity to raise awareness of the lessons learned and information about reconstruction efforts, especially since the 10th anniversary of the disasters is next year. New ways to carry out tours, such as organizing livestreams, are being discussed.

Leaders of the project believe it is their duty to preserve the memory of the disasters.