Games plant seeds of recovery

But Takada remains cautious about the effect of the Olympics, warning that the Games do not signal an end to the rejuvenation efforts.

"There are still a lot of challenges and difficulties for the reconstruction," he said. "It is a work-in-progress and will take a long time."

Concern over the possible health effects of exposure to radiation remains high among people from areas near the nuclear plant, particularly families with young children.

A poll by the Asahi newspaper and a local broadcaster found that almost two-thirds of evacuated residents felt anxious about radiation despite official claims that decontamination work has been a success.

Akihiro Yoshikawa, a former employee of TEPCO, the owner of the nuclear plant, gave up his job in 2014 to help the communities learn about nuclear power stations and the decommissioning process through presentations and interactive discussions. "If you are frightened, you need to listen to the experts," he said.

However, he is skeptical about just how much Tokyo 2020 can aid the healing process. "I used to stay up all night to watch the Olympics," he said. "After all the things we've experienced since 2011, it is difficult to say that I will enjoy the Games."

XINHUA