Japan Mourns The Eight-Year Anniversary Of The Devastating 2011 Earthquake That Claimed Nearly 16,000 Lives

On March 11th, 2011, a massive earthquake struck Tōhoku, Japan, causing huge amounts of damage and triggering a deadly tsunami which claimed the lives of around 16,000 people. 2,500 people are still unaccounted for after the disaster, which was one of the deadliest in Japan's history.

Now, eight years after that terrifying day, the country is coming together to remember the lives lost on the anniversary of their passing.

Many people's lives were shaped by the tsunami, even if their friends and family were fortunate to survive.

Prayers for the region were sent in from all over the world.

Japan's train system will be shutting down at the exact time the earthquake struck eight years ago in remembrance.

The destruction caused by the tsunami is still being repaired even today.

Tragedy often brings out the best side of humanity.

Images of the devastation are still shocking, years later.

Many will remember hearing news of the tsunami for the rest of their lives.

Japan remains strong—they continued to march forward despite the heartbreak of March 11, 2011.

On this day, Tōhoku is in the world's thoughts.

Rare Video: Japan Tsunami | National Geographicyoutu.be