In April 2016 Kumamoto was struck by devasting earthquakes. The two main earthquakes killed at least 50 people and injured over 3,000. Severe damage costing billions of dollars occurred all over Kumamoto with numerous structures collapsing and catching fire. Many landmark structures collapsed and are in need of restoration, the scenic Aso area in particular took a severe blow, the main road into the Aso caldera was destroyed as was the train line and two essential bridges. All roads leading up to Mount Aso were badly damaged and the landmark Aso Shrine sadly collapsed.

The historic Aso shrine dates back to 281 AD to the days of Japan’s first emperor. It's one of the oldest, most prominent shrines in Japan and the heart and focal point of the Aso community holding a variety of unique festivals throughout the year.

The restoration of the shrine is an essential step in the recovery for the whole Aso community and work to rebuild the shrine is already underway. However, complete restoration will take up to 10 years and the cost will be high, an estimated 20 billion yen (12 million pounds) the majority of this cost has to be met by the shrine itself which is why fundraising is vital.

The UK pinhole photographer Alex Yates visited the Aso area 6 months after the quakes and after seeing the devastation was moved to help. He is offering a limited edition of one of 4 Aso scenes for every donation of 10,000 Yen to the shrine. For a donation of 15,000 Yen you will be able to choose 2 prints, 20,000 Yen 3 prints and 25,000 Yen the full set of 4 prints.

Make your donation and choose from one of 4 unique Aso scenes, each image, printed on Fuji Crystal Archive Matt paper will have a limited edition of 15 prints and be signed and numbered on the reverse by Alex.

Find more detailed information and see the photographs here: http://www.explore-kumamoto.com/aso-print-sale/