IBARAKI –
An historic zelkova tree believed to be about 800 years outdated toppled at Suzume Shrine in Koga, Ibaraki Prefecture, on August 1, with no accidents reported.
Police obtained an emergency name shortly after 1 p.m. from a witness who stated a tree had fallen on the shrine.
According to shrine officers, the tree was about 25 meters tall and had been designated a cultural property by the town of Koga.
“This is the sacred tree. I have climbed it since I was in elementary school,” a close-by resident stated.
Police stated the reason for the collapse remained unknown.
Large crowds have been anticipated in Koga afterward August 1 for a fireworks pageant, prompting police to direct visitors across the space.
Source: FNN