This unique building was constructed in 1995 on the site where the Fukuoka prefectural government building once stood. The 14-story public-private complex has terraced roofs on its south side, with 14 narrow terraces covered with 50-centimeter-thick artificial soil, making the entire south side green. The concept of the greening design was to create a natural forest 60 years later, but less than 30 years after the building completion, a natural forest has already been created. The 37,000 trees of 76 species initially planted here have naturally increased mainly with seeds carried by birds to about 50,000 trees of 120 species. On top of the artificial soil, fallen leaves and insect excrement accumulate day by day, resulting in an environment that is almost identical to that of a natural mountain, with greater nutrients and water retention capacity. Nowadays, water-supply equipment with a rainwater tank is no longer used. Recent surveys have found snakes, lizards and other small animals, as well as bird nests.
License tour guide, travel consultant,
Masahisa Takaki.
全国通訳案内士 高木聖久。
