Saitama Prefecture to Hold Arborist-Guided Ecological Garden Tour Celebrating 'Nature Coexistence Site' Certification

Saitama Prefecture announced a special observation tour of the Environmental Science International Center's Ecological Garden to celebrate its national certification as a 'Nature Coexistence Site' in March 2026. The tour, scheduled for May 31, 2026, will be led by a certified arborist who will provide detailed insights into the 2.03-hectare biotope. This site recreates the traditional 'Satoyama' landscape of eastern Saitama from the 1950s, featuring woodlands and streams. It is a vital spot for biodiversity, hosting approximately 20% of Japan's butterfly species. The tour is open to all ages with a nominal fee of 50 yen for insurance.