In an age of disappearing foreign bureaus, three U.S. journalists were given a unique opportunity to report on a long-time U.S. friend and ally - Japan. Nearly two years after the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown that left the country reeling, these reporters observed the country's changes up close. Only the third group of international journalists allowed to tour the Fukushima nuclear plant since the meltdown, they had unbridled access and top-notch interpretation. Their in-depth work aims to bring the spotlight back to Japan as it grapples with an uncertain energy future.

Olga Belogolova

Olga Belogolova, an energy and environment policy reporter for the National Journal, explored rumors and fears regarding food safety, the town of Hirono's struggle to rebound 20 months after the triple disaster, reconstruction efforts, shifts in energy policy, and the prospect of an energy partnership between the U.S. and Japan. Traveling through Japan during the 2012 U.S. elections also gave Belogolova a chance to cover Japanese reactions to the presidential race.

Chris Benderev

Chris Benderev, a production assistant at NPR, focused on issues of identity affecting Japanese citizens in the wake of the disaster for NPR and for PRI's "The World." Benderev covered Japanese photographers who are using their skills to replace lost family photos, a "miracle" tree that has become a symbol of survival for a devastated region, and the reflections of expatriates whose parents lived near the coast.

Joe Rubin

Joe Rubin, the director of digital media for Civil Beat, documented the energy choices facing Japan for his website and for PRI's "The World." His pieces on look at the future of renewable energy in the country, the current status of the Fukushima nuclear plant and the 3,000 men and women who still work there, and the possibilties presented by wind power. He connects Japan's energy struggles - and opportunities - to those faced by the U.S.