Vanishing snow, sinking Tokyo Sky Tree: sobering forecast for Japan if climate change goes unchecked
- Predictions by World Wide Fund for Nature Japan show what the renowned landmarks across the country will look like if global warming continues unabated
- The environmental organisation’s campaign is calling on the public to make changes to their lifestyles to protect the ‘treasures’ of their hometowns
The famed geisha of Kyoto are collapsing from the heat. The apple trees that are a feature of Japan’s northern Aomori prefecture are barren. A ski slope in the central Nagano prefecture is green due to a lack of winter snow. Numerous other parts of the country – from Iwate to Yamagata, Ishikawa, Osaka and the city of Tokyo – are under water.
Reminiscent of the ukiyo-e woodblock prints by famed artist Hokusai, in particular the series known as the “36 Views of Mount Fuji,” which was created between 1830 and 1832, the WWFJ’s “Future 47 Views” makes sobering viewing.
Alongside an image of a Kyoto geisha trying to shield herself from the sun, the message warns that while Japan’s ancient capital is already infamous for its hot and humid summers, temperatures will rise as much as 4 degrees by the end of the century. The heat will be so intense, it adds, that it may be dangerous to go outside and simply try to walk around.