Temples in and around Japan's Noto Peninsula held Buddhist memorial services to mark the 49th day -- the traditional period of mourning. The area was devastated by the New Year's Day earthquake.

Families of the victims quietly prayed at a temple in the city of Wajima, where 102 deaths have been confirmed. The temple itself was badly damaged by the quake.

Matsuoka Esui, the head priest of Chokoji Temple, said, "I am not going to leave this temple. I will do whatever I can. It's my duty."

Schools in the city still face difficulties holding regular classes. Some students have transferred to other schools, or plan to do so. They are unable to continue living in their communities, or fear falling behind in their studies.

But others have decided to stay. High school student Izumi Goh is living in a shelter. He studies about two hours every day, using a cardboard bed as a desk. His parents suggested that he move to a school in Osaka. But he says he can endure the situation, because he loves Wajima.

"There are people who say hello to me in the street. I can feel the warmth of people in this town. This is my only home and the most precious place for me," Izumi said.

The quake damaged nearly 70,000 houses in Ishikawa Prefecture, mainly in the Noto region. More than 6,600 people are still living in school gymnasiums or other primary evacuation centers.