On October 23, 2004, the Great Chuetsu Eathquake hit the Chuetsu Region of Niigata Prefecture. Most of the main roads in the Yamakoshi District fractured and collapsed as well as many of the terraced paddies and ponds. All the residents were forced to evacuate, leaving behind their rice plants, cattle, and Nishikigoi, into which they had poured their hearts and souls. However, the people in the community complated the reconstruction of their terraced paddies and ponds in three years by making the best use of their knowledge of water management and the mutual collaboration-cooperation system of the "Maki" network. Thus, life in Yamakoshi began again.
Furthermore, Nishikigoi breeders from many parts of Japan visited the earthquake-stricken Yamakoshi immediately after the disaster and provided support by rescuing and loaning out parent fish. Nishikigi admirers around the world also extended helping hands to the devastated community by presenting donations. Restoration efforts in Yamakoshi were possible through not only internal bonds between the locals but also external bonds based on the network of supportive people from many other places.
Furthermore, Nishikigoi breeders from many parts of Japan visited the earthquake-stricken Yamakoshi immediately after the disaster and provided support by rescuing and loaning out parent fish. Nishikigi admirers around the world also extended helping hands to the devastated community by presenting donations. Restoration efforts in Yamakoshi were possible through not only internal bonds between the locals but also external bonds based on the network of supportive people from many other places.