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Devastating Earthquake in Japan Destroys Artisan Community

1/17/2026

47 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Kazuo Yamagishi, a lacquer artist in Kanazawa, Japan, lost his home and studio when a 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck on New Year’s Day 2024.
The quake destroyed many artisans’ homes in Wajima, a center known for lacquerware.
The disaster killed over 240 people and damaged about 60,000 buildings, with fires, landslides, and coastline changes affecting local ports.
Yamagishi’s lacquer designs symbolize the beauty of his former home.

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Story summary

Kazuo Yamagishi, a lacquer artist in Kanazawa, Japan, lost his home and studio when a 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck on New Year’s Day 2024.
The quake destroyed many artisans’ homes in Wajima, a center known for lacquerware.
The disaster killed over 240 people and damaged about 60,000 buildings, with fires, landslides, and coastline changes affecting local ports.
Yamagishi’s lacquer designs symbolize the beauty of his former home.