July 30, 2023

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko on July 28 at a press conference remarked that public criticism that a massive redevelopment project in the Meiji Jingu Gaien (outer garden of the Meiji Shrine) destroys lush greenery in the area is a negative propaganda campaign.

The Japan ICOMOS National Committee, an advisory body of UNESCO, has pointed out that an environmental assessment conducted by Japan’s top real estate developer Mitsui Fudosan Co. and other project operators contains many fallacies.

At the press conference, Governor Koike showed a stance in support of the project operators’ one-sided explanation that the planned redevelopment will not damage the green landscape, including the iconic ginkgo tree avenue.

Japanese Communist Party Tokyo Metropolitan Assemblypersons’ group Secretary General Izumi Naomi issued a comment criticizing the governor’s “negative campaign” remark.

Izumi noted that the redevelopment project under which a considerable number of 100-year-old trees will be cut down is facing fierce criticism from experts and international organizations. She pointed out that it is unacceptable for the governor to accuse them of engaging in a negative campaign.

Izumi condemned the governor for shutting her ears to a wide range of citizens and experts expressing concern regarding the negative environmental impact of the redevelopment project.

Pointing out that more and more people are standing up against the redevelopment project which disregards the historical value of old trees in the Jingu Gaien area, Izumi said that in collaboration with these people, the JCP Metropolitan Assemblymembers’ group will work hard to realize the revision and cancellation of the redevelopment plan.

Past related article:
> Kasai calls for protection of ginkgo trees in Tokyo's urban oasis [February 22, 2023]