▶　2026-03-11 [Artwork Production] Courtesy visit to the mayor of Ishinomaki: Production of a finger-ink painting of “Date Masamune”

Courtesy visit to the mayor of Ishinomaki City; creation of a sumi-e (ink painting) of Date Masamune using finger ink.

Ishinomaki City is the second largest city in Miyagi Prefecture, after Sendai. It suffered significant tsunami damage during the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11, 2011, but has since recovered and the entire city is beautiful again. Historically, Ishinomaki was originally the base of Kasai Harutane, but later Date Masamune incited former retainers of Kasai and Osaki to revolt, which was discovered by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Afterward, Ishinomaki became part of Date Masamune’s territory. …And so, this time I brought a sumi-e (ink painting) of Date Masamune.

I also spoke with the mayor about the reconstruction plan for the remote island of Ajishima. Mayor Saito, representatives from the Reconstruction Planning Department, the Regional Development Division, and the Ishinomaki City Oshika General Branch Office were among the attendees.

A reporter from the Sanriku Kahoku Shimpo newspaper was also there to cover the event. I believe the article will be published in the newspaper later.

Ajishima Island currently has a population of only about 250 people, and along with the population decline, the number of young people on the island is decreasing. This project aims to revitalize Ajishima as a tourist destination, and simultaneously, we are also working on the “Art Island Project.” In the future, we plan to commercialize Ajishima’s specialties, such as Ajishima haruka oranges and olives, and to revitalize the island through art.

Some may wonder, “Why Tochigi Prefecture?” In fact, Ishinomaki City and Ajishima have historical ties to Tochigi Prefecture.

After Ajishima Elementary School closed, a medical clinic was established there. Tochigi City’s Tochinoki Hospital actually visited Ajishima several times during his time as a council member.

Originally, most of Japan’s remote islands were places of exile (so-called island banishment), and it is because of this history that traditional cultures and customs have taken root in these lands.

Ajishima, rich in nature, is famous for its beautiful sea, so much so that it is called the “Hawaii of Tohoku.” The neighboring Tashirojima Island is famous as a cat island due to its large cat population. Kinkasan Island, of course, is a well-known tourist destination.

Most recently, the Ajishima Festival will be held from April 25th to 26th, featuring a live ink painting performance by Arakawa So, who will not be using a brush. This event is a great start to revitalize the island and welcome many visitors. Please do visit Ajishima Island if you have the opportunity.