Ginkgo trees (Maidenhair tree)are a cornerstone of autumn in Tokyo. While the name may not sound familiar at first, the unusual leaf shape can be seen in designs across the world. The Ginkgo itself is the official tree of Tokyo thanks to its curved T-shape leaf which is also the symbol of the capital. Travelers are often surprised to find that Autumn-leaf viewing is a seasonal tradition akin to cherry blossom viewing in Japan, with festivals and illuminations adding to the experience. Ginkgo, along with Maple trees are some of the most popular trees for leaf-viewing thanks to their bright colors and impressive foliage.
Known as a Maidenhair Tree in English, the ancient variety is the only remaining kind of the Ginkgoales order, with any relatives only found in fossil form. The name Ginkgo is believed to stem from a misspelling of the Japanese ‘gin’ and ‘kyo’ meaning silver apricot. The large trees can reach heights of 50m and live for centuries, with some in Japan over 1,000 years old. Some of the largest and oldest can be found in rural areas of Japan. The Horyo Ginkgo in Aomori is 1,100 years old and over 30m high. Nearby, the Grand Kikubo is 1,000 years old while Saitama’s Shobo-ji Temple has a 700-year-old Ginkgo overlooking the Chichibu mountains.
Although it was once on the Japanese endangered list, dedicated cultivation efforts have since allowed the Ginkgo tree to be removed. These days, the towering trees are a common sight along Tokyo’s streets as well as in shrine and temple grounds across the country, known as shinboku, meaning sacred trees.
Close to Central Tokyo is Showa Kinen Park which has Ginkgo-lined avenues bordering a beautiful canal. The park is a quiet escape with cafes, Japanese Gardens, and ponds to enjoy.
Wherever you go, be sure to try the Ginkgo seeds! Called ginnan, they can be found grilled, cooked into chawan-mushi (steamed egg custard), or steamed in rice dishes.
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Alo Japan.