National tree threatened in Chinatown

[Taro Toporific]

Japan's National Tree, the sacred Concrete Utility Pole, is endangered in Yokohama's Chinatown according to today's Asahi Shimbun:

"Chinatown's distinctive streets may soon removed of their clutter, victims of the revitalization project...residents express remorse at the probably (sic) passing of light poles and overhead cables, which add to the general ambience of the area."

"...electric utility poles will be removed and the cables will be buried to give the area a more open, inviting appearance. Other plans include leveling the footways to improve access for the disabled and planting more trees."
--IHT/The Asahi Shimbun http://www.asahi.com/english/politics/K2002112000390.html

More trees--no wire tangles. OH, THE HORROR!

One resident said:
"I feel lonely as I have been in the Chinese quarter with its larger number of electric light poles since I was born."

Let's Pole and Happy Together!

[Taro Toporific]

Japan's National Tree, the sacred Concrete Utility Pole, is endangered in Yokohama's Chinatown according to today's Asahi Shimbun

Yokohama's Chinatown struggling for survival
YOKOHAMA, July 10, Kyodo- Yokohama's Chinatown, a famous tourist spot south of Tokyo, swarms with tens of thousands of visitors each day seeking delicious dishes from China and Taiwan, but is struggling for survival amid Japan's prolonged recession.
Prior to the opening of a new subway station in the neighborhood next year, town residents are undertaking a ''great revolution'' to attract more visitors....
''Sales now? Some 40% down,'' he said, recalling the asset-inflated bubble economy period that ended about 13 years ago. ''Decreases in corporate parties and entertainment for customers on weekdays are blamed for this.''