The Japanese tsunami: What happened on 11 March 2011?

Video caption, Leah went to Japan to meet children still affected by the tsunami

On 11 March 2011, Japan was struck by one of the most powerful earthquakes on record.

The quake caused a giant wave out at sea, called a tsunami, which grew to 10 metres high.

Half an hour after the quake, the tsunami hit the North East coast of Japan, destroying everything in its path.

Many homes, schools and businesses were simply swept away by the massive wave.

The earthquake was measured at force 9.0 magnitude, which is very high.

The wave also hit a nuclear power station in Fukushima, triggering the world's worst nuclear disaster for 25 years.

Five years later, life is returning to normal in most of the areas affected, but the town of Fukushima and other areas affected by the disaster are still deserted.

With thanks to: Ishinomaki Hibi Shinbun Press, Ishinomaki Gas Co. Ltd, Okaido Elementary School, Sakurazaka High School, PEP Kids Koriyama