Center for Global Education at CSB+SJU
Nature Grows Where it Wants, Evelyn Flaherty
A reoccurring theme I noticed during my short time in Japan was how much nature is embedded in the Japanese culture. If this tree were to grow in the middle of some sacred grounds--such as a cemetery or temple-- in the United States, it would most likely be cut down. However, in this case in Japan, the tree was allowed to grow. I was shocked to see how nature could make its way into the concrete jungles of Kyoto, and even Tokyo, the world's largest city. You could be walking next to skyscrapers and then a forest would be immediately to your right. This tree captures this feeling of serenity, an uncommon feeling in the bustling cities in Japan.
Nature Grows Where it Wants, Evelyn Flaherty
A reoccurring theme I noticed during my short time in Japan was how much nature is embedded in the Japanese culture. If this tree were to grow in the middle of some sacred grounds--such as a cemetery or temple-- in the United States, it would most likely be cut down. However, in this case in Japan, the tree was allowed to grow. I was shocked to see how nature could make its way into the concrete jungles of Kyoto, and even Tokyo, the world's largest city. You could be walking next to skyscrapers and then a forest would be immediately to your right. This tree captures this feeling of serenity, an uncommon feeling in the bustling cities in Japan.