Many of you may already be familiar with the Banyan tree as a popular houseplant.
The Banyan trees (Gajumaru) native to Yakushima are known for their glossy, vibrant leaves and dramatically winding aerial roots. Their mystical appearance has led to them being revered as sacred trees, believed to house the forest spirit Kijimuna.
Several of these grand old trees have become popular tourist attractions on Yakushima,
drawing visitors eager to capture photogenic images.
However, the cumulative impact of foot traffic compacting the soil
and careless tree climbing
has caused these sacred giants to decline across the island — a reality we can no longer ignore.
To address this situation,
a group of passionate community members reached out to us,
and together we organized a Banyan Tree Restoration Workshop.
On the morning of the workshop, light rain was falling,
but as we began, the skies around the Banyan trees cleared —
as if the heavens themselves were affirming the significance of our work. It was a humbling and deeply moving moment.
In addition to regenerating the soil environment around the Banyan trees,
we also tended to the nearby stream with all the participants.
Enveloped in what felt like the joyful resonance of the Banyan trees' interconnected root network,
and surrounded by the sacred atmosphere of the grove,
we concluded the workshop feeling deeply fulfilled and at peace.
We plan to hold this workshop on a regular basis,
so please
join us if the timing works for you.
We would love to welcome you.
The next session is scheduled for mid-September 2024.