An investigation team from the Tokyo metropolitan government has begun a survey around the Diaoyu Islands. They arrived at the surrounding waters at about 4 am today. The Japanese government has refused permission to land, but it’s still unclear whether the team will make an attempt.

The 25-member team includes Tokyo officials, a real estate appraiser and marine policy researchers. It left Ishigaki port, Okinawa, on Saturday night. The team will spend around 11 hours, examining animal and plant life, measuring the depth of coastal waters and looking for sites to build boat shelter.

This is in preparation for their intended purchase of the land. The team is expected to return to Ishigaki in the evening. Japan’s Kyodo news agency reports the inspection is basic research ahead of a re-examination planned for as early as October.