I just wanted to add comment to both pics and discussion - side you are focusing on might be a bit moved during repair works, that's why some bushes are missing etc. Focus on left side, next to massive green info sign - all bushes left from this sing looks exactly the same on both pics, so I recon those was made in short period of time.
About Japanese people and disaster itself: I'm absolutely amazed by their stoic way of taking it all, such a calm and discipline, lines to get water and food, living in cold etc.
Now look at Haiti's earthquake - was it week or 2 after distater when armed gangs was robbing aid convoys and killing/raping? Says something about nation eh?