Report: Osaka finding ways to carry on

Much like in Kyoto, ATVN’s Robbie Heeger reports from Osaka that everyday life is largely back to normal, though the public is keeping close tabs on the developing nuclear situation.

“It’s hard not to feel the sorrow that’s going on,” he said. “It’s hard not to feel some sort of solidarity for what is happening.”

“What we are waking up to are reports that the U.S. says the nuclear situation is much worse than expected,” said Heeger, “or than the Japanese officials are relaying at least.”

Heeger said Narita International Airport is jammed with passengers trying to leave the area.

“The winds did change yesterday,” he said.

“Tokyo was, for a [little while], getting some radiation,” he added. “And that was scaring a few people, but other than that the real radiation fears have subsided with the entrance of this cold front.”

But Heeger said businesses are trying to assure locals and tourists that Osaka is in fact safe, including his hotel, which posted this sign in its lobby.

“As you walk into our hotel here in Osaka there a little chalkboard that says, ‘Welcome to Osaka — there was an earthquake, but there’s no problems in Osaka so come enjoy,’” he said.

Heeger will be flying out of Osaka’s Kansai International Airport late Wednesday evening where he will be traveling to Seoul, South Korea.