▶　2026-10-25　　　[Live Performance] Harusame-ji Temple: “The End of the War in the Heart” – A Live Performance

Harusame-ji Temple: “The End of the War in the Heart” – Live Performance

The “End of War in the Heart” event held at Harusame-ji Temple on October 25th was truly wonderful.

Following the enshrinement of a portion of the remains of Sadako Sasaki—who passed away at the age of 12 after being exposed to the atomic bombing in Hiroshima—Harusame-ji has become known as the “Temple of the Peace Paper Cranes.” The actual paper cranes that Sadako folded during her lifetime to bring comfort to others are now dedicated and housed at the temple.

As the temple that serves as the memorial site for Sadako Sasaki, it hosted a gathering of world-class performers on October 25th.

The performances—including those by Koshiro Minamoto of Bugaku-za, the internationally renowned artist KENTO MORI, and a moving reading by Masahiro Sasaki—brought tears to many eyes. The choir from Hiroo Gakuen Junior & Senior High School also deeply touched our hearts, and the performance by Hirari Sato, a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Choir, was magnificent. Additionally, a talk by Hidetoshi Tojo—the grandson of former Prime Minister Hideki Tojo—offered a deeply resonant message.

It was a true honor to present a live performance—creating art using my hands and ink—on such a remarkable stage.

NHK Japan has featured a report on the enshrinement of Sadako Sasaki’s remains at Harusame-ji; I encourage you to watch it:
https://news.web.nhk/newsweb/na/nd-20261025de65255

A documentary film crew was also present that day, and I believe they captured some truly meaningful moments.

Through the support of Castem Co., Ltd., the calligraphy for “End of War in the Heart”—created by me, Shu Arakawa, using my hands and ink—has been crafted into a metal plate and dedicated to Harusame-ji Temple.

True peace—the real “end of war”—is achieved when conflicts between people cease and the lingering bitterness in our hearts fades away.

To honor one another, to share in each other’s joy, and to laugh together… isn’t that what “peace” is all about?

Art has the power to make this possible. Believing in this, I will continue my peace-building activities. I am deeply grateful for all your support.

“End of the War” Live Performance (A Performance for the Soul)
Featuring Tsugaru-shamisen player Keita Tanase
And ink-wash artist (who paints without a brush)
SHU Arakawa