Hitachi tree at Monaloa park, Hawaii

Hitachi tree - notice the person in front.  

Normally you find that a tree is taller than it is wide.  Not the Hitachi tree, which was photographed in Hawaii in Monaloa park.  What is even more amazing is that, if you look carefully, you can see my wife standing underneath it just off to the left of the trunk.  That is one big tree.
The park itself was nice, although as a biological garden it did not have the range of plants I was hoping for.  The main draw for the park is the trees, which in their own right are very impressive.  I understand that the park has a lot of Japanese visitors who come specifically because of the tree itself.  I can understand their attraction.
We normally associate height with greatness in trees; think of the amazing redwoods or cedars which elicit awe in those who have witnessed them.  The Hitachi itself does not come close to their towering presence, but its width is unbeatable.
This is a tree that can provide shade.  Its branches stretch wide over the ground supporting great weight yet not sagging under its own bulk.  A cedar or redwood could not manage such a tremendous feat.  Although they are impressive in their own right, the Hitachi towers over them not in height, but in majesty.