The Resilient Ginkgo Trees: Manchester’s Living Symbols of Peace

In the heart of Manchester, the Japanese ginkgo trees stand as powerful symbols of peace, resilience, and the long-standing friendship between our city and Japan. These remarkable trees are not only botanical treasures but living reminders of hope and unity.

Their story begins in Hiroshima, Japan, where, despite the devastating atomic bomb in 1945, a few ginkgo trees miraculously survived. These “survivor trees,” known as hibakujumoku, became symbols of resilience and recovery in the face of unimaginable destruction.

In recognition of Manchester’s strong commitment to nuclear disarmament and our dedication to a peaceful world, seeds from these survivor ginkgo trees were donated to our city. Manchester was the first UK city to receive them, marking a historic gesture of friendship and solidarity from Japan.

The seeds were carefully nurtured at Hulme Community Garden Centre, a local hub for sustainable horticulture and community engagement. From these efforts, several saplings have been planted across Manchester:

• Manchester Metropolitan University: In 2019, MMU unveiled its ginkgo tree, named ‘Heiwa’ – the Japanese word for peace. The ceremony included students, faculty, and city officials.
• Manchester Children’s Hospital and Local Primary Schools: As part of ‘Project G,‘ initiated in 2015.
• Lincoln Square Peace Garden: Two ginkgo trees have been planted in this contemplative space near Manchester Town Hall.

Today, these ginkgo trees grow proudly in Manchester, connecting us to Hiroshima’s message of hope and reminding us of the shared values that bind our two cities together.

These trees are a testament to the enduring spirit of both Manchester and Japan. As the city continues to care for them, we also nurture the ideals of peace, resilience, and friendship they represent.