Japan does not cut down centuries-old trees for development. Instead, experts spend months preparing their roots and relocating them

Published 9 July 2026 · india

Why Japan relocates some centuries-old trees instead of cutting them down The months-long preparation hidden beneath the ground What is nemawashi and why does it

Why Japan relocates some centuries-old trees instead of cutting them down The months-long preparation hidden beneath the ground What is nemawashi and why does it matter? How Japan moves giant trees Does every relocated tree survive? A lesson in balancing development and conservation When roads, railways or new buildings are planned, centuries-old trees are often among the first casualties of development. In Japan, however, some of the country's most valuable trees are given a second chance. Rather than cutting them down, arborists and horticultural experts sometimes relocate them using a painstaking process that can take months or even more than a year. Before a tree is moved, specialists carefully prepare its root system to improve its chances of surviving in a new location. The technique, known as nemawashi, combines centuries of horticultural knowledge with modern engineering and reflects Japan's long-standing respect for nature and cultural heritage.Not every tree standing in the path of development is relocated. The practice is generally reserved for trees with exceptional historical, cultural or ecological value.

Many of these trees are found in temple grounds, shrines, traditional gardens, parks or historic neighbourhoods, where they have stood for generations and are considered part of the local heritage.In some cases, moving a mature tree also helps preserve biodiversity and the character of a landscape while allowing infrastructure projects to continue.Because the process is expensive and technically demanding, authorities carefully evaluate whether relocation is practical before deciding against removal.The most remarkable part of the relocation process happens long before cranes arrive.Months before transplantation, specialists begin carefully pruning the tree's roots. Instead of uprooting the entire root system at once, they gradually trim selected roots around the tree. This encourages the growth of new, fine feeder roots closer to the trunk.These feeder roots are essential because they absorb most of the water and nutrients needed for survival. By allowing them to develop before relocation, experts significantly reduce transplant shock and improve the tree's chances of adapting to its new environment. Depending on the size and species, this preparation may take anywhere from six months to over a year.The root preparation process is known in Japan as nemawashi, a term that literally translates to "going around the roots."Originally a horticultural practice, nemawashi has become a widely used expression in Japanese business and politics, where it refers to quietly laying the groundwork before introducing major changes.