Long lines at Tokyo store selling Kumamoto goods post-quake.
Since the earthquake, Tokyo's Kumamoto shop has seen long lines as customers buy goods and donate to support affected residents.
Since Tuesday's massive 7.1 magnitude earthquake in Kumamoto, visitors have been lining up at a Tokyo shop selling local products. They want to support the devastated areas by buying specialty goods and making donations. Sales at the Ginza Kumamotokan skyrocketed, more than doubling peak holiday levels. “It’s rare to see such a line,” said an official.
Popular items include ikinari dango, a sweet potato dessert, and karashi renkon, lotus roots with mustard. A 56-year-old woman from Chiba, worried about her relative in Hikawa, expressed her frustration at not being able to send relief supplies. "I bought items as this is all I can do,” she said. Donations at the shop reached about ¥2 million, with officials thanking visitors for their support. “The warm feelings have been a support and encouragement for the people,” noted Mitsuo Matsuoka, urging ongoing cooperation.
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