Kumamoto film festival opens to support earthquake recovery

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  The Kumamoto Restoration Film Festival began on Saturday to support recovery from the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes.

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  The festival was launched in 2017 to encourage people in areas affected by the earthquakes.

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  Organizers said this year is the event’s 10th edition.

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  Director Isao Yukisada said organizers considered postponing the festival after a magnitude-7.1 earthquake in late July but decided to proceed in hopes of expanding support.

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  A screening on Friday featured Yukisada’s short film “The Gift of Memory,” which was shot in Kumamoto, and residents affected by the July quake were invited to attend for free.

Who

The festival organizers, including director Isao Yukisada; actor Ai Hashimoto and other cast members also appeared at a screening.

What

The Kumamoto Restoration Film Festival began its 10th edition to support reconstruction and encourage people affected by disaster.

When

It kicked off Saturday; a film screening was held Friday. The article was published on October 10, 2026.

Where

Kumamoto Prefecture, southwestern Japan.

Why

To support reconstruction from the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes and encourage people in areas affected by disasters.

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