While northeastern Japan still experiences some aftermath of the unprecedented earthquake and tsunami in March, international relief has been touching Japan’s most needed communities. As six months have passed, among those who have been giving hands to the tsunami affected communities are American tourists.

Japanese tour companies HIS, JTB and KIE set up tour packages in summer, inviting American travelers to Japan who looked for special experiences, offering post-quake recovery volunteer program in the affected area in the northeastern Japan. Each company put together the package for about a week-long trip with opportunities and interaction with local people, such as cleaning up the wreckage, visiting orphanages, and supporting the communities.

Through the human connection and borderless friendship, participants came back home not only with cultural experience but also became very aware of social and humane experiences, which touched the hearts of both visitors and the local Japanese people. As the testimonials describe the program, “the whole experience have been so nourishing to my soul,” “I respect and applause the resilience of Japan,” and “I have a newfound respect and admiration for the Japanese people.” The packages drew the overwhelming public attention, and all these companies are considering more dispatches of similar tours in coming fall and winter. For more information, visit www.japantravelinfo.com.