# Two Goats Hired to Clear Weeds at Tokyo's Yotsuya Station

- URL: https://unnienote.app/en/news/goats-weeding-yotsuya-station-tokyo-afd171
- Published: 2026-10-26T07:56:32.923Z
- Publisher: Unnie Note

> JR East has hired two goats, Nagi and Potke, to clear weeds at an open lot in front of JR Yotsuya Station in central Tokyo.

## Key points

1. The goats began weeding on October 9, according to ANN.
2. It is the first use of goats for weeding inside the Yamanote Line loop.
3. JR East plans to continue through December, but may stop early if the grass runs out.

## What is happening at Yotsuya Station?

Two goats have been grazing weeds at an open lot in front of JR Yotsuya Station in central Tokyo since October 9, according to ANN, a TV Asahi affiliate. The goats, Nagi and Potke, are part of an eco-friendly weeding project run by JR East.

| Goat | Sex | Age |
|---|---|---|
| Nagi | Male | 1 year old |
| Potke | Female | 2 years old |

## Why use goats instead of machines?

JR East hired the goats to remove grass that keeps growing on the lot in an efficient and environmentally friendly way. The idea came from a station attendant on site, and the company describes the animals as its 'eco-friendly weeding staff.'

## Why is this considered unusual?

The goats are the first to be used for weeding inside the Yamanote Line loop, the rail circle that runs through the core of central Tokyo. The sight of goats eating grass between tall office buildings has drawn passersby and commuters.

## How long will the goats stay?

JR East plans to keep the goats weeding through December. The company has said the work could end earlier if the grass on the lot runs out.

## For international fans

The story has drawn attention in Japan for its quirky contrast of rural animals and a busy urban rail hub. Yotsuya Station is a major stop on JR lines in central Tokyo, and visitors passing through can spot the lot from the station area.

## FAQ

### Where are the goats located?

The goats are at an open lot in front of JR Yotsuya Station in central Tokyo, along the Yamanote Line area.

### Who owns the goats?

The goats were hired by JR East, the railway company, as eco-friendly weeding staff. Ownership details were not reported.

### Will the goats stay all year?

JR East plans to continue through December, but the work may end sooner if the grass runs out.

## Sources

- [Dong-A Ilbo](https://www.donga.com/news/Inter/article/all/20261025/134902338/1)

_Written and translated with AI from official announcements and Korean media reports. If something is wrong, please let us know._