Tama Forest Science Garden, Research arboretum in Todorimachi, Japan.
Tama Forest Science Garden is a research arboretum at Mount Takao's base containing large wooded sections and extensive collections of different tree species. The facility features natural forest areas, walking paths, and zones where researchers study and display various trees.
The site was originally named Asakawa Experiment Forest and became a research station in 1921 under the Ministry of Imperial Household's Forestry Division. This change established it as a major center for forest research in Japan.
The site teaches visitors about sustainable forest practices through marked trails and interpretive signs showing how people have managed woodlands over time. You can observe how different tree species coexist and are maintained together.
The garden sits in a forested area and is best explored on foot, with paths of varying difficulty depending on your fitness and available time. Good shoes and water are important, especially if you plan to spend several hours there.
The grounds hold roughly 2000 cherry trees representing over 250 different varieties, making it one of the most important places for this species diversity. This remarkable collection draws many visitors especially during spring bloom season.
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