Thank you for liking our uploaded post. We are the "Society for the Preservation of the Ota Shrine's Kikitsubata" in Kamigamo, Kyoto. These plants have thrived in the Ota marshes for 10,000 years, retaining the original species' characteristics such as deep purple color and short stems. Due to their rarity, Professor Miyoshi of Tokyo Imperial University registered them as a National Natural Monument in 1939. This was done to prevent the plant from becoming extinct due to urban development.
Time passed, and two years ago, a company emerged planning to purchase the 2100 tsubo (approx. 7000 m²) of land at Ota Shrine and its eastern properties to build a "large-scale mansion." They intend to submit the design plans this October.
The Ota irises, celebrated in waka poems by the Fujiwara clan, now face their greatest crisis since recorded history.
　We humbly request your support. The "Association to Protect the Kikitsubata at Ōta Shrine" is collecting signatures. We are petitioning the Agency for Cultural Affairs and the Mayor of Kyoto City to request that the neighboring landowners, Kengo Kuma & Associates, and the consultants adopt construction methods considerate of the kikitsubata's growth. We also urge the Mayor of Kyoto City, who holds the authority to approve building permits, to instruct the developers to create a design respectful of this designated scenic area.
　We have already received the support of 11,000 people. We sincerely ask for your cooperation. We humbly request that you also spread the word to your acquaintances.
*** Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version) ***