This Japanese Train Station Was Built Around A 700 Year Old Tree, And Here's Why

There's a train station in the Northeast suburbs of Osaka, Japan, which proves that man and nature can coexist in harmony. Its main feature is a giant camphor tree, stretching out through a hole in the platform. Officials believe that the tree is about 700 years old and its history is full of loving people and a little bit of superstition.

Kayashima station opened right next to the camphor tree in 1910. However, after 60 years the increase in population demanded an expansion of the station and it was approved in 1972. The tree was to be cut down to make room for the new structure. But anyone who tried to cut down the tree was doomed with some sort of unfortunate event. One man who managed to cut down a branch, developed a high fever later that day. Others saw smoke arise from the bottom of the tree.

When locals found out about what was happening with their beloved tree, they were outraged. Tales began to spread about the tree and its deity, so eventually, the officials agreed to update the design of the new platform and incorporate the tree into it. Construction began in 1973 and ended in 1980. To this day the camphor tree is growing there with the support of the local community and there's even a little shrine to honor its being.

(h/t: spoon-tamago)