Every spring, large numbers of tourists come to the Gongendo Park in the city of Satte, Saitama Prefecture to view the 1,000 cherry blossoms, stretching to a length of 1 kilometer. The trees, originally planted in the early 20th century was cut down and used for fuel during and after World War II. Since those times, the cherry trees have been replanted and tended with great care by Satte's residents. One tree in particular, brought from a town in Fukushima Prefecture, has taken on a special meaning for Fukushima natives displaced to Satte after the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami.

In Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture is a little diner that opened shortly after World War II. 70 years on, it's still going strong, 24 hours a day. The owner, 91-year-old Misako Mizoguchi, handles the night shift by herself, catering to a loyal clientele. They include office workers and women from local bars and clubs. Misako serves up comfort for their troubles through homemade meals and words of encouragement. She has helped sustain a community, from postwar reconstruction to the present day.