Tree clearing commenced on Monday in the Jingu Gaien park area of central Tokyo, marking a significant point of contention that has persisted for over a year between conservationists and real estate developers.
Real estate giant Mitsui Fudosan is leading an extensive 10-year project worth billions, which aims to erect three towering skyscrapers on this prized land. In conjunction with this development, the plan includes demolishing a historic baseball stadium and constructing a new one in its place.
On the same day, a small group of demonstrators assembled to voice their dissent against the removal of trees in a metropolis that is already short on green spaces and increasingly seeing its parks transitioned into commercial properties.
The controversial development initiative has gained the support of Tokyo Governor Yuiko Koike, who has a background as Japan’s former environmental minister, leading to further debate among the public and environmental advocates.