After the occurrence of the massive earthquake in Sichuan, China, the Confucius Institute at Hokuriku University, Japan took action immediately, launching a large-scale donation activity.

On May 12, after the earthquake, Kitamoto Yoshiro, Chairman of the Board for Hokuriku University was first to donate, followed by a large number of teachers and students. As of May 30, a total of 50,000 Yuan had been donated.

On the morning of June 5, an Erhu relief performance was held in the Confucius Institute at Hokuriku University. Li Caixia, teacher at the Confucius Institute as well as Erhu performer along with Long Zezhuo, an electronic instrument player gave a wonderful performance for more than 500 teachers and students. The music--sometimes melodious and sweet, sometimes loud and sonorous--embodied survivors’ mourning for victims and hopes for the rebuilding of the disaster area. In particular, a piece of music named “For the Children’s Tomorrow”, brought tears to the eyes of many present. The president of Hokuriku University along with all teachers and students donated on-site at the relief performance. Some with no cash made special trips to nearby automatic teller machines (ATMs) to withdraw money. Within a short period of time, a total of 20,000 Yuan was raised.

Soon, the Confucius Institute at Hokruiku University will transfer all donated funds to the earthquake-stricken area through Hanban. At the same time, Hokruiku University has decided to make earthquake relief activities an important task of this year, planning to continue long-term.