A river lantern ceremony took place on August 11, 2025, to honor the victims of Japan’s deadliest air disaster. This event was held in the village of Ueno, Gunma Prefecture, where a Japan Airlines jumbo jet crashed in 1985. The ceremony took place one day before the 40th anniversary of the tragic accident.
Approximately 200 lanterns floated down the Kanna River near Osutaka Ridge, where the crash occurred. Each lantern carried messages from bereaved families. Some read, “Praying for safety in the skies,” while others said, “We will never forget what happened 40 years ago.” The lanterns shone softly in the evening light despite light rain. This river lantern ceremony became a symbol of remembrance and hope.
Mariko Kawaguchi, a 64-year-old university professor from Tokyo, returned to Ueno after a decade. She lost her father, Hirotsugu, who was 52 when the crash happened. Mariko described her father as sincere and devoted to family. On her lantern, she wrote, “I’ve become 12 years older than you were, Dad. Thank you for these 40 years.” She expressed gratitude for the ongoing care shown by the local community.
Meanwhile, a citizens’ group from Takasaki played accordions near the river. They performed songs such as “Ue o Muite Aruko,” also known as “Sukiyaki.” The song’s original singer, Kyu Sakamoto, also died in the crash. Masami Uehara, 71, leads the group and explained, “We play to pray that no more aviation accidents happen.” He hopes their music touches everyone present.
Students and teachers from Ueno Elementary School also took part in the event. Yukimasa Ihara, an 11-year-old sixth grader, shared his feelings. “I learned about the crash at school and from my dad,” he said. “It made me sad, and I want to tell younger children about it.” Their involvement shows how the memory of the disaster continues to live on through generations.
On the morning of August 12, family members of the victims climbed Osutaka Ridge by the mountain trail. Later, they attended a memorial service at the “Irei no Sono” garden near the mountain’s base. Everyone observed a moment of silence at 6:56 p.m., the exact time when the plane crashed.
This river lantern ceremony highlights how the community continues to honor the victims and promote aviation safety. Through shared memories and prayers, the event strengthens bonds among families and locals. It also reminds everyone of the importance of remembering past tragedies with hope for a safer future.
