On March 2, 2025, approximately 350 volunteers gathered around Kinpusen Mountain in Kumamoto City to participate in annual tree planting efforts aimed at environmental conservation. This initiative, organized by the non-profit organization 21 Kumamoto Kinpu and Ariake Environment Conference, has been running for over twenty years, focusing on both the conservation of Kinpusen Mountain and the revitalization of the Ariake Sea.
Despite inclement weather characterized by intermittent rain, attendees gathered with enthusiasm, ready to contribute to the cause. The opening ceremony featured Tamana Mariina, a second-year student from Yoshino Middle School, who passionately declared, “We engage in activities to protect, love, and nurture greenery to work on the environmental preservation of Kinpusen Mountain.” This inspiring speech set the tone for the day’s activities as the participants transitioned to the tree-planting site.
The volunteers worked diligently on the mountain’s sloping terrain, using tools such as hoes to prepare the soil for planting. Together, they planted about 1,000 native hardwood seedlings, including Yamazakura (Japanese mountain cherry) and Yamamomo (Japanese wax tree), across approximately 5,000 square meters of land. Organizers confirmed plans for continued support of these seedlings through planned activities like summer grass clearing to help the saplings thrive.
Reflecting on the day, participants expressed pride and fulfillment. “It was very rewarding to contribute to making Yoshino rich with nature,” said one first-time participant who dedicated hours planting under the cloudy sky. Another student echoed this sentiment, hoping the planted saplings would lead to greenery flourishing around Kinpusen Mountain.
The initiative highlights the community’s dedication to environmental stewardship and demonstrates how local efforts can contribute significantly to larger ecological goals. The event has not only promoted environmental education among young people but has also strengthened community ties through collaborative action.
Following this successful planting day, organizers intend to keep nurturing the growth of the trees by calling for volunteers throughout the summer to assist with maintenance tasks like weeding. This continued commitment to ecological preservation aims to encourage additional community engagement, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in environmental conservation.
Notably, the efforts taking place at Kinpusen Mountain transpire as environmental issues grow increasingly pressing on both local and global levels. The initiatives hosted by the 21 Kumamoto Kinpu and Ariake Environment Conference exemplify how grassroots movements can encourage significant environmental change and awareness.
The tree planting on Kinpusen, alongside similar initiatives, not only seeks to restore local ecosystems but also fosters educational opportunities and forms lasting partnerships among participants. With each seedling planted, the community not only takes measurable steps toward environmental recovery but builds resilience and looks forward to preserving their natural heritage for future generations.