Olympic Torch Relay Begins in Japan

The Olympic torch relay has began in Fukushima, Japan. It was closed to the public but was meant as a celebration of Japan’s recovery from the nuclear disaster that happened 10 years ago and to showcase the country emerging from years of economic hardship. Members of Japan’s Women’s Soccer Team kicked off the flame’s 121 day journey to Tokyo. 10,000 runners will carry the torch through Japan’s 47 prefectures to represent national unity. It will arrive at the stadium on July 23rd. Last week, it was announced that the games scheduled for the 23rd through August 8 would be closed to overseas spectators. The Paralympics on August 24th through September 5th will also be closed to traveling fans.