Beneath the rustling leaves of twenty different bamboo species, lies a secret garden. This is Take to Shitashimu Hiroba, a unique park in Edogawa City. Take to Shitashimu Hiroba translates to “Bamboo and Get Close Plaza”. It’s a place where the city’s bamboo legacy thrives.
Here at Take to Shitashimu Hiroba, bamboo isn’t just admired. It’s cultivated, nurtured, and celebrated. The park staff carefully manage the bamboo groves, ensuring a diverse and healthy collection. They even construct special fences using the bamboo grown on site. These fences, known as sun-drying fences, are a unique feature. They showcase the resourceful nature of bamboo cultivation.
The fences aren’t just practical. They’re a work of art, crafted from the flexible hachiku bamboo. The fresh, green bamboo culms are harvested in June. They are then carefully bent and attached to wooden frames. This process doesn’t require any special tools. It highlights the inherent pliability of this remarkable plant. But why hachiku bamboo? This particular species possesses a unique combination of strength and flexibility. This makes it ideal for creating these distinctive fences. The fences symbolize the cyclical nature of life, with new shoots constantly emerging and older culms being put to use. The very structure of Take to Shitashimu Hiroba tells a story of sustainability.
The knowledge passed down through generations of bamboo craftsmen is evident here. It’s a testament to the deep connection between the people of Edogawa and this versatile plant. Take to Shitashimu Hiroba offers a glimpse into the heart of bamboo culture. It invites you to appreciate not just the beauty, but also the practicality and resilience of this amazing grass. As you wander through the rustling groves, consider the many ways bamboo has shaped this city and its people.