25th EHIME MARU MEMORIAL CEREMONYJapan-America Society of Hawaii OfficeFEBRUARY 9, 2026
On Monday, February 9, 2026, the Ehime Maru Memorial Association (EMMA) held the 25th remembrance ceremony of the accident that claimed the lives of nine Japanese crew members, including four high school students on board the Uwajima Fisheries High School training ship Ehime Maru. Due to the state of emergency declaration and the closure of government offices and public parks caused by severe weather conditions, the private ceremony for bereaved family members and guests traveling from Japan was held at the Japan–America Society of Hawaii office. The alternative venue provided a safe and appropriate setting for the gathering, ensuring that the ceremony could proceed respectfully despite the unforeseen circumstances.
The private ceremony brought together representatives from the Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu, bereaved family members, and members of the Uwajima City Hospital, and various volunteers.
The ceremony featured a solemn moment of silence in honor of the victims. Lei and flowers were respectfully arranged on a table bearing the names of those who were lost. Once the severe weather had passed, flower wreaths were laid at the memorial on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, as a continuing tribute to their memory.
Message from Governor Tokihiro Nakamura
Although Governor Tokihiro Nakamura of Ehime Prefecture was unable to attend, he sent a heartfelt letter expressing his condolences and gratitude for the annual memorial. He reaffirmed Ehime’s commitment to preserving the memory of the accident and strengthening the bonds between Ehime and Hawaii.
Message from Director James Tokioka on behalf of the State of Hawaii
Director Tokioka’s message reflected on the tragedy’s significance and the enduring friendship between Japan and Hawaii. Stating “Since that tragic day – Hawai‘i and Ehime have forged a bond of goodwill and understanding, strengthened through a sister-state relationship that has endured for more than 20 years.”
Message from Mayor Fumiaki Okahara of Uwajima City
Although Mayor Fumiaki Okahara was unable to attend, his message expressed his deep sorrow and emphasized the importance of U.S.-Japan relations. He reflected on the friendships formed in the wake of the tragedy and the responsibility to pass on the memory to future generations. He also acknowledged the 20th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Honolulu and Uwajima last year, highlighting the growing ties between the two cities.
Message from Mayor Rick Blangiardi of the City and County of Honolulu
Mayor Blangiardi’s message stated that shared grief and meaningful connections were formed between our communities. And that over the years, exchange programs, sister school relationships, and educational partnerships between Ehime and Hawai’i have grown honoring the memory of those who were lost by ensuring that their legacy includes learning, understanding, and friendship between our people.
Among the distinguished attendees were Consul General Hideaki and Mrs. Misato Chotoku. Approximately 25 members of the community joined to pay their respects, reflecting on the loss and the lasting impact of the tragedy.
Message from the Bereaved Families
Mr. Tatsuyoshi Mizuguchi, speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the community’s continued support. Bereaved family members presented flower lei to honor their loved one.
Mr. Mizuguchi, the father of one of the victims, said they have had various kinds of support since the accident. He said he is grateful that they are able to have a memorial ceremony in Hawaii, even though 25 years have passed. He said he hopes that such an accident never happens again.
Mrs. Makizawa, the widow of a teacher who died, said she is stunned that so much time has passed. She said the lives that were lost will not come back, so she wants people to continue thinking far into the future about the value of life.
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to enjoy a selection of light refreshments. As they mingled, the atmosphere became warm and lively, with attendees engaging in friendly conversations and reconnecting with one another. The occasion provided a wonderful opportunity for everyone to share reflections on the ceremony, exchange pleasantries, and strengthen their sense of community.
Wreath presented by the following organizations
Inclement weather prevented the floral wreaths from being delivered on February 9, 2026, however, all floral wreaths and flower lei were placed on February 10, 2026 to honor the departed.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ehime Prefecture
State of Hawaii
Ehime Prefecture Board of Education
City of Uwajima
U.S. Indo-Pacific Command
U.S. Pacific Fleet
Ehime Maru Memorial Association
Uwajima City Hospital
John A. Burns School of Medicine
Friends of the Bereaved Families
As the administrator of the Ehime Maru Memorial Association, the Japan-America Society of Hawaii (JASH) remains dedicated to preserving the memory of those lost and ensuring the memorial continues to serve as a place of reflection and remembrance for future generations.
