2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings, and it was the last Hiroshima Day at the Maruki Gallery before renovation begins. Despite it being a weekday, over 200 people visited.

In a way that inherits the “Yamanba Conference” envisioned by Toshio Maruki and Michiko Ishimure, the performance event Yamanba, Kai by Momoko Shiraga (co-organised by the Cross Play Higashimatsuyama) became a special time, like a celebration of all life, shaking the earth and reaching the heavens. Along with the people who gathered at the Maruki Gallery, we shared sadness, anger, laughter, singing, and dancing in a feast that honored life in all its forms.

In the evening, heavy rain began immediately after the lantern floating concluded. Despite the weather, young volunteers collected all the lanterns downstream, while veterans had earlier prepared a path to the river in the sweltering heat. Their dedication made this year’s ceremony possible. We are deeply grateful to all of you.