But Japan is known for its resilience and Hokkaido in October rolled out its "We Are Genki" campaign, using the Japanese word for healthy and full of spirit, to spread the word that it has largely recovered from the disaster.

Recognising tourism to be a key industry for Hokkaido, the national government has earmarked 15.3 billion yen to support rebuilding efforts - including subsidies for companies to provide discounted airfares and accommodation for tourists until March next year.