The redevelopment plan for the area surrounding Meiji Jingu shrine in Tokyo is set to undergo a review following protests over the proposed removal of trees, according to the project’s main developer. Mitsui Fudosan Co has submitted a revised plan to the Tokyo metropolitan government after receiving opposition from prominent figures, including late Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, who emphasized the importance of preserving the urban forest and Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue.
The International Council on Monuments and Sites, an advisory body for UNESCO, has called for the withdrawal of the redevelopment plan and issued a “Heritage Alert” requesting conservation of cultural heritage. The new plan aims to save more than 120 trees that are three meters or taller. Additionally, it proposes widening the distance between a new complex and ginkgo avenue from eight meters to 18 meters in order to protect tree roots.
To ensure conservation measures are implemented before any trees are cut down, the metropolitan government has requested involvement from all parties associated with the project. The completion date for construction work was originally scheduled for 2036; however, Mitsui Fudosan and other stakeholders will assess how this review will impact their timeline.
The Jingu Gaien redevelopment project includes constructing two high-rise buildings that will house a commercial complex. It also involves relocating a baseball field and rugby stadium within the area. The metropolitan government approved this redevelopment plan in February 2023, with some demolition work commencing in March of that year.
An official from Mitsui Fudosan expressed understanding about how significant this area is to everyone involved and assured that they would keep public informed about progress on this project. They are also considering holding meetings with local residents to provide updates on its development.
In a letter sent last year to Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike before his passing due to stage IV cancer, Sakamoto stressed that sacrificing these precious trees at Jingu for quick economic gain would be unjustifiable given their historical significance nurtured by our ancestors.
