In Kyoto,one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views, Amanohashidate, a pine tree thought to be 650 years old, was cut. Known as the “Funakoshi Pine,” this tree is believed to have connections to the well-known warlord Akechi Mitsuhide of the Sengoku period. Work started to cut down the tall tree, which is believed to be the oldest of the 6,700 or so pines that line Amanohashidate.
According to News on Japan, it has stood the test of time as a landmark site where residents would gather before heading to the sea for decades. Deep historical ties to the tree date back to the Muromachi era. It is apparent in a 1500s national treasure picture of Amanohashidate by Sesshū, indicating that it had already gained traction at that time. Fishermen used to haul their boats ashore in this location, which is thought to be the origin of the term “Funakoshi.”
For years, efforts were made to keep the treasured tree intact. Although wires and other reinforcements had been added since 2005, the risk of collapse became too high. Finally, the painful decision to remove it was made by Kyoto Prefecture.
