Cherry blossom trees at airlift center in western Tokyo are being cut down for security reasons

This dilapidated cherry blossom tree was cut down and removed from the east side of Yokota Air Base, Japan, on October 18, 2024. Removing unhealthy trees helps prevent diseases and pests from spreading to other trees. (Jeremy Stillwagner/Stars and Stripes)

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan – Some of the iconic cherry blossom trees that made this air transportation hub west of Tokyo a popular place to visit each spring have disappeared.

Some trees along McGuire Avenue just inside the east gate were later removed after being deemed too old, unhealthy or worn, Master Sgt. Nathan Allen, a spokesman for the 374th Airlift Wing, told Stars and Stripes via email this week.

Seven trees have been removed since October 18. According to Allen, tree removal is not part of any project and is performed as needed.

The air base opens once a year for the annual cherry blossom festival on McGuire Boulevard, where crowds gather to admire the blossoms.

This dilapidated cherry blossom tree was cut down and removed from the east side of Yokota Air Base, Japan, on October 18, 2024. Removing unhealthy trees helps prevent diseases and pests from spreading to other trees. (Jeremy Stillwagner/Stars and Stripes)

Removing unhealthy trees is nothing new in Japan. According to the Tokyo Construction Bureau’s website, Tokyo has approximately 850 miles of roads adorned with roadside trees that are regularly inspected.

Trees found to be unhealthy or weak are rehabilitated or cut down to ensure they do not fall onto roads and obstruct emergency vehicles during storms.

The potential dangers of weak roadside trees are no different at U.S. military installations.

“Removing unhealthy trees on the east side ensures community safety because weak and damaged trees can pose serious risks to pedestrians and vehicles,” Allen said. “In addition, removing blighted trees helps preserve local ecosystems and contributes to overall environmental health.”

Cutting can prevent diseases and pests from spreading to neighboring trees. Yokota had previously removed the trees to prevent pests.

In April, the Air Force faced a swarm of ambrosia beetles infesting thousands of trees at its facilities in western Tokyo. The beetles carried a fungus that weakened the wood, allowing beetle larvae to burrow in and grow.

Sakura blossom on the east side of Yokota Air Base, Japan, March 27, 2018. (Stars and Stripes)

Due to the infestation, 80 trees were felled and removed in Yokota and the nearby Tama Hills Recreation Area, popular for its 18-hole golf course.

Addressing unhealthy trees at the base prevents potential hazards from spreading to surrounding areas, Allen said.

New trees have been planted following the fight against the beetles, but it is unclear when the recently cut cherry trees will be replaced.

“The decision to replant new trees is still being debated,” Allen wrote. “Specialists from the 374th Civil Engineer Squadron are preparing a plan for future planting along McGuire Boulevard for approval by the 374th Airlift Wing commander.”