In the heart of Tokyo, amidst the bustling metropolis, lies a haven of greenery—Jingu Gaien park. On a recent Sunday, amidst the tranquility of this urban oasis, a poignant scene unfolded. Miho Nakashima, adorned in a bathing suit and a vibrant green and brown leaf-painted body, stood before a 100-year-old gingko tree. Her message, clear and urgent, resonated through the park: “I’m a tree. Don’t chop me down.” Her performance was a powerful protest against a controversial real estate development plan that threatens the very essence of this beloved park.
This development plan, approved earlier this year by Tokyo’s governor, Yuriko Koike, envisions the construction of two towering skyscrapers in the heart of Jingu Gaien. The project, spearheaded by the developer Mitsui Fudosan, would entail the destruction of countless trees, including the beloved gingko trees that line a picturesque avenue, and the demolition of iconic sports venues—a historic rugby stadium and an adjacent baseball stadium.
A Place of Peace and History Under Threat
The park’s significance extends beyond its beauty. It stands as a testament to Japan’s history, dedicated to the revered Meiji Emperor. Takayuki Nakamura, one of the many protestors who gathered on that Sunday, embodied the park’s spiritual significance by pressing his face against the bark of a tree, praying for its preservation. “I want to appreciate the existence of these trees. Sometimes I can feel some sounds inside,” he shared, echoing the profound connection that many feel to this sacred space.
The proposed development has sparked intense opposition from conservationists, civic groups, local residents, and even sports fans. The project has been criticized for its lack of transparency and its failure to adequately assess the environmental impact of the proposed construction. Concerns center around the destruction of the iconic gingko trees and the potential disruption of the natural balance of this precious green space.
A Clash of Interests: Public Space vs. Private Development
The conflict at the heart of this controversy pits public interest in preserving a valuable green space against the pursuit of private profit. Critics argue that the developers are seeking to exploit public land for commercial gain. The project’s supporters, including the governor and the developers, maintain that it is a necessary step to revitalize the area and provide economic benefits.
The controversy has drawn international attention, with renowned composer and musician Ryuichi Sakamoto sending an open letter to Governor Koike just days before his death, expressing his deep concern over the plan’s potential impact on the park and its cultural heritage.
A Fight for the Soul of a City
The future of Jingu Gaien remains uncertain. As the debate intensifies, it is clear that this is not simply a battle over real estate—it is a fight for the very soul of Tokyo. The park serves as a vital green lung in the heart of the city and a symbol of its rich cultural heritage. The community’s fervent desire to protect it stands as a testament to the power of collective action in safeguarding spaces that enrich our lives and inspire generations.
As Miho Nakashima stood painted like a tree, she embodied the spirit of resistance that is sweeping through Jingu Gaien. Her silent plea, “I’m a tree. Don’t chop me down,” echoes through the park and the hearts of all who cherish its beauty and its significance. The fate of this beloved space hangs in the balance, and the outcome of this struggle will determine the future of Tokyo’s urban landscape and its commitment to preserving its natural treasures for generations to come.
