Japan has restarted reactor no.6 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant, the world's largest, almost 15 years after the Fukushima disaster forced a nationwide nuclear shutdown. The restart was delayed by one day due to an alarm malfunction but is expected to begin commercial operations next month. The plant, northwest of Tokyo, once had seven reactors with 8.2 gigawatts capacity, although future reactivations remain uncertain. The seventh reactor may restart only by 2030, while five others might be decommissioned. Japan heavily depended on nuclear power before 2011, with nearly 30% electricity from it. After Fukushima’s meltdown caused by a massive earthquake and tsunami, the country halted all 54 reactors. Since 2015, Japan has restarted 15 of 33 operable reactors. Kashiwazaki-Kariwa is the first Tepco-owned plant to resume operations. The disaster caused lasting fear and distrust, with Tepco and government criticized for poor handling. A government report called Fukushima a “man-made disaster.” Public opposition to nuclear power remains strong, with only 8.5% of Japan’s electricity coming from nuclear in 2023. New safety measures include 15-metre seawalls and watertight doors. TEPCO reported incidents of lost and mishandled documents, raising concerns over its safety culture. The Nuclear Regulation Authority suspended restarting some reactors after a quake data scandal. Experts say Japan is well-prepared for past-type disasters but worry about unforeseen megaquakes or tsunamis. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi supports nuclear power for energy security amid growing demand, especially from tech industries. However, rising costs due to tougher safety checks and public protests over energy bills challenge the revival. The government aims for nuclear to supply 20% of electricity by 2040, a lower target than before Fukushima. Protests continue near Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, reflecting ongoing public anxiety. Despite improvements, the shadow of Fukushima still looms large over Japan’s nuclear future.