Green Roofs in Osaka
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto 
on 06.23.08
The nicest thing about Osaka is the train to Kyoto; most of it is drab, grey postwar concrete. However, Justin at MetaEfficient points us to a bit of green, a bit of an oasis on the roof of a shopping center next to the railway station, jammed in between the tracks and a highway. Jerde Partnership Architects "conceived Namba Parks as a large park, a natural intervention in Osaka's dense and harsh urban condition. Alongside a 30-story tower, the project features a lifestyle commercial center crowned with a rooftop park that crosses multiple blocks while gradually ascending eight levels. In addition to providing a highly visible green component in a city where nature is sparse, the sloping park connects to the street, welcoming passers-by to enjoy its groves of trees, clusters of rocks, cliffs, lawn, streams, waterfalls, ponds and outdoor terraces."
"Beneath the park, a canyon carves an experiential path through specialty retail, entertainment and dining venues. Namba Parks creates a new natural experience for Osaka that celebrates the interaction of people, culture and recreation."
Every roof should be like this, habitable, productive green space instead of black tar. ::Jerde via ::Metaefficient
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As someone who lived in Osaka for many years and watched the construction of Namba Parks (just visited it again a week ago) I can confidently say it is one of the most impressive pieces of architecture in the world. The green roof (terraced over several floors) is on of the few places in the whole region where trees appear healthy and people can relax amongst flowers and "fresh" air.
To add to that the design of the huge shopping/dining/commercial complex is stunning and very welcoming.
NambaParks is the best thing to happen to Osaka in a long, long time and, I hope, will set the trend for design there in the future.
A prime example of how modern construction can and should be done.
Combining the environment with the living space is some thing the Japanese have gotten right for quite a long time.
Now if we can just get the rest of the world to follow this example.