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 abit of green, a bit of an oasis on the roof of a shopping center nextto the railway station, jammed in between the tracks and a highway.Jerde Partnership Architects "conceived Namba Parks as a large park, anatural intervention in Osaka`s dense and harsh urban condition.Alongside a 30-story tower, the project features a lifestyle commercialcenter crowned with a rooftop park that crosses multiple blocks whilegradually ascending eight levels. In addition to providing a highlyvisible green component in a city where nature is sparse, the slopingpark connects to the street, welcoming passers-by to enjoy its grovesof trees, clusters of rocks, cliffs, lawn, streams, waterfalls, pondsand outdoor terraces."
"Beneath the park, a canyon carves an experiential path throughspecialty retail, entertainment and dining venues. Namba Parks createsa new natural experience for Osaka that celebrates the interaction ofpeople, culture and recreation."

www.treehugger.com/files/2008/06/inhabited-green-roof-japan.php