In preparation for the possible realization of the ILC in the Kitakami mountains, Ichinoseki City held an “Ichinoseki Science Café” at the Hanaizumi Library. Their Science Café series provides an opportunity for local citizens to have a dialogue with particle physics experts.

Around 30 people attended. Heading the café was specially-appointed Professor Satoru Yamashita of the International Center for Elementary Particle Physics of the University of Tokyo. He talked about what the ILC would research, how the plan has progressed both domestically and internationally, and the possibilities for innovation if the ILC is realized.

Regarding the ILC’s effect on the local area, Prof. Yamashita stressed, “Having so many researchers and engineers arrive in the area means it will have a large effect on “soft” policy like food culture, tourism, and education. We must begin preparing for that now.”

Haruna Segawa, a 3rd year student at Hanaizumi High School, said, “I was happy to hear the technical discussion on how physics affects things like healthcare. I think we must properly prepare for welcoming foreigners to the area through learning about different languages and cultures.”