In a world where urban growth often comes at the cost of nature, Japan offers an inspiring example of how modern development can respect life — even that of trees. While in many places road expansion or construction projects mean clearing entire green areas, Japan has mastered an artful and patient alternative: relocating mature trees with great care instead of cutting them down.

A Tradition of Respect for Nature

Deeply rooted in Japanese culture is the idea that nature and people share one living space. This belief has shaped how the country approaches city planning and construction. When possible, instead of destroying decades — sometimes centuries — of growth, engineers and arborists work to preserve it. Large, healthy trees are not simply obstacles to be removed; they’re living beings with history and meaning.

The Ancient Practice of Nemawashi

Central to this approach is a technique called nemawashi — literally “going around the roots.” Before a tree is moved, specialists spend months, sometimes years, preparing it for relocation. They carefully expose and prune the roots, wrap and strengthen them, and treat the tree so it can survive the shock of being transplanted. The soil around the roots is stabilized and kept moist, and when the time comes, powerful cranes and machinery gently lift the entire tree and move it to its new home.

This process isn’t quick or cheap, but it greatly increases the chance of survival. Many ancient temple grounds and urban parks in Japan still hold trees that were relocated decades ago and continue to thrive today.

Why Japan Chooses to Move Trees

There are both cultural and environmental reasons behind this care. Preserving mature trees maintains the ecosystem — birds, insects, and shade all depend on them. It also saves decades of natural growth that can’t be replaced overnight. But beyond ecology, it reflects the Japanese respect for life and history. Some trees stand near shrines or temples and are seen as guardians of the land. Others are rare species or beloved local landmarks.

Urban planners have found that saving iconic trees can strengthen community identity and preserve beauty in neighborhoods undergoing change.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Modern equipment has made it possible to move even massive trees weighing tens of tons. Companies in Japan have specialized vehicles and techniques to support tree relocation for highways, railways, and real estate development. There are also new biological treatments to help transplanted trees recover faster after being moved.

A Global Message of Balance

While not every country can adopt this practice for every project — cost and feasibility remain challenges — Japan proves that development doesn’t have to mean destruction. With careful planning and cultural respect, cities can grow without erasing the life that has long been there.