No one hangs out at a train station for fun. But Tokyo is apparently changing that. With community garden plots atop train stations, the city is solving two seemingly unrelated problems: Transit hubs can be ugly and industrial-looking, and city-dwellers often don’t have space to garden.
For about $82 a month, Tokyo residents can grow veggies, flowers, and herbs at one of five train station gardens, or “Soradofarms.” Those with thumbs more black than green can get advice, help looking for pests, and weeding assistance. Tools and seeds are provided too.
Not only does ripping up weeds sound therapeutic after a long day at work, but Fast Company says the spaces bring the community together, functioning almost like public parks. “For many, it’s just a place to come to relax,” writes Adele Peters. “[F]amilies come for picnics or to give their kids a little extra room to run around.”
We can think of a few transit stops where a whiff of fresh lavender would do a world of good.
