Families In Kobe Enjoy Handheld Fireworks
Socially-distanced families in the western Japanese city of Kobe have enjoyed handheld fireworks at a night park.
The event took place as a replacement for fireworks displays and other summer traditions that have been canceled this year due to the spread of the coronavirus.
It was held by a non-profit organization that works to honor the victims of the major earthquake that struck the city and nearby areas in 1995.
Candles were lit using a memorial flame that has been kept burning at the park to remember the victims.
Participants enjoyed roughly 5,000 handheld fireworks while maintaining physical distancing to prevent coronavirus infection.
A mother in her 40s took part in the event with her two daughters. She said it will become a fond memory for them as her family did not visit any places of amusement during the summer holidays.
A five-year-old boy who visited the park with his mother said he used fireworks for the first time this year and that it was really fun.
A senior official of the organizing group said the event drew many more people than it had expected. He added he hopes the event will motivate them to learn more about the disaster.
