Over half of Japan’s land area is covered by forests. Because of the country’s diverse geography, you can experience boreal forests in the north and subtropical forests in Japan’s southern part. In addition to their evident scenic beauty, Japan’s forests are part of the country’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
It’s fascinating to note that a majority of Japan’s forests are UNESCO-enlisted World Heritage Sites, where ancient trees and wildlife are preserved and protected. If you are planning a holiday in Japan, include these beautiful forests in your itinerary, most of which are easily accessible by car and bullet train (Shinkansen).
Best time to visit the forests in Japan
In Japan, regions and seasons are important when choosing which forests to visit.
- Spring (March-May): Central Japan, Nara, Aomori, Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto look gorgeous during cherry blossom season. The weather is mild, pleasant and perfect for hiking and trekking.
- Summer (June-August): While the weather is usually warm and humid, the dense green forests, rivers, and waterfalls keep the area cool. The forests in Nagano, Kagoshima, Izu, Okinawa and Aomori are worth exploring during this season.
- Autumn (September-November): Autumn is the perfect season to witness fall foliage. The pleasant weather makes it a good time for exploration and forest bathing. Kyoto, Aomori, Hokkaido, and the Japanese Alps look stunning in this season.
- Winter (December-February): Most hiking routes around the north are closed due to heavy and uncertain snowfall. However, forests in central and southern Japan experience cooler temperatures and remain accessible to the public most of the time. Mount Hongo in Osaka and Mount Hiei in Kyoto look magical during the winter.
Also read | Of Snowflakes, Onsens And Skis: Unlock A Dreamy Winter In Japan
Feast your eyes on some of the prettiest and most peaceful forests in Japan!
Best forests in Tokyo, Japan
Meiji Jingu Forest
This forest is in the heart of Tokyo. It’s a vast forest that spreads across 170 acres near Harajuku and Shibuya. The forest is home to 100,000 trees and the iconic Meiji shrine. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. It’s the perfect Japanese forest to escape to when you want to take a break from your city life in Tokyo.
Location: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557.
How to reach: 1-minute walk from Harajuku Station Exit 3.
Popular activities: Forest bathing, nature observation, and photography.
Hotels near Meiji Jingu Forest: The Aoyama Grand Hotel (approximately 1.5 km away), Nihon Seinenkan Hotel (approximately 1.4 km away), and Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand (approximately 1.5 km away).
Book your stay at The Aoyama Grand Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Aoyama Grand Hotel via Agoda.com
Mount Takao Forest
Located just about an hour west of central Tokyo, you will reach this popular hiking and trekking destination called Mount Takao Forest. It’s a paradise for nature lovers who enjoy long walks, bird-watching and photography. On the way up to Mount Takao, you will come across a monkey park and Yakuoin Temple. Mount Takao Forest offers several hiking trails that lead up to its summit, but most visitors prefer the first. You can decide on a path that suits you best.
Location: 1343 Uratakaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844
How to reach: Take the Chuo Line from Tokyo Station to Takao Station and then transfer to the Keio Takao Line to Takaosanguchi Station.
Popular activities: Ride the cable car, trekking and visit Yukuo-in temple.
Plan the perfect trip with our comprehensive 10-day Tokyo itinerary for first-timers.
Hotels near Mount Takao Forest: Guest house with host Takao Sora (approximately 3.9 km away), AI HOTEL Hashimoto (approximately 10 km away), and Laxio Inn (approximately 9 km away)
Book your stay at AI HOTEL Hashimoto via Booking.com
Book your stay at AI HOTEL Hashimoto via Agoda.com
Okutama
Visit Okutama if you’re looking for a less crowded and niche forest to explore. It takes about 90 minutes to get there by train from central Tokyo. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit, but do check the weather before travelling there. Apart from trekking, you can bask in the hot springs or indulge in water activities like kayaking, fishing, and canoeing in the Tama River in Okutama.
Also, check out the best public hot springs in Japan.
Location: 654 Sakai, Okutama, Nishitama District, Tokyo, 198-0222
How to reach: Take the JR Chuo Line heading to Nakano from Shinjuku Station. At Tachikawa Station, change to the Ome Line and get off at Okutama Station.
Popular activities: Go hiking, camping, fishing, hot springs, river rafting, kayaking.
Hotels near Okutama: Fruit Park Fujiya Hotel (approximately 24 km away), Itoyanagi (approximately 28 km away), and Yamagatakan (approximately 11 km away).
Also read | Best Hotels In Tokyo To Experience Unmatched Luxury
Book your stay at Fruit Park Fujiya Hotel via Booking.com
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Best forests in Osaka, Japan
Minoh Park
If you’re ever visiting the north side of Osaka, make a trip to Minoh Park. It’s one of the oldest parks in Japan famous for its lush forests, 33-metre-tall waterfall, and scenic hiking trails. You may even spot wild Japanese macaques and rare birds if you are lucky. This forest and park look spectacular during autumn and spring.
Location: 1-18 Minookoen, Minoh, Osaka 562-0002
How to reach: From Umeda Station, take the Hankyu Takarazuka Line to Ishibashi Handai-mae Station. From there, transfer to the Hankyu Minoh Line and get off at Minoh station.
Popular activities: Hike to Minoh Waterfall, visit Ryanji temple, and the insect pavilion next to the park’s entrance.
Hotels near Minoh Park: Senri Hankyu Hotel (approximately 7.7 km away), Minoh-Sanso Kaze no Mori (approximately 1.2 km away), and Laina Minoh (approximately 5.3 km away)
Book your stay at Senri Hankyu Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Senri Hankyu Hotel via Agoda.com
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Mount Kongo Forest
You will find the Mount Kongo Forest between the border of Nara and Osaka. It’s the highest peak in Osaka and is covered with lush greenery, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Upon reaching the summit, you will see the ancient ruins of Chihaya Castle and a panoramic view of Nara, Osaka and Wakayama.
Explore more of this beautiful Japanese region with our 5-day Osaka itinerary.
Location: Takama, Gose, Nara 639-2336
How to reach: Take the Nankai Koya Line from Nankai Namba Station to Kawachinagano Station. Then, take the Nankai Nagano Line to Tondabayashi Station. Once there, board the Kongo Bus and get down at the Chihaya Ropeway bus stop.
Popular activities: Hiking, nature photography, bird-watching, camping and forest bathing.
Hotels near Mount Kongo Forest: Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno (approximately 28 km away), Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel (approximately 28 km away), and Toyoko Inn Osaka Abeno Tennoji (approximately 28 km away).
Book your stay at Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel via Agoda.com
Hoshida Park
Known for its beautiful forested trails, iconic suspension bridge, dreamy panoramic views, rock climbing and nature observation boards, the Hoshida Park in Katano City in Osaka is worth the trip. Wildlife enthusiasts can also spot rare birds like the Eurasian Jay, great tit and Japanese white-eye here. There are plenty of restrooms and vending machines along the trails, making it the perfect spot to have a little picnic.
Location: 5019-1 Hoshida, Katano, Osaka 576-0011
How to reach: Take the Keihan Katano Line to Kisaichi Station. From the station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the park.
Popular activities: Hiking, nature photography, bird-watching, rock climbing.
Also, explore our guide to the most scenic road trips in Japan.
Hotels near Hoshida Park: Remm Shin Osaka (approximately 21 km away), Courtyard Shin-Osaka Station (approximately 21 km away), and HOTEL MYSTAYS Shin Osaka Conference Centre (approximately 22 km away)
Book your stay at Remm Shin Osaka via Booking.com
Book your stay at Remm Shin Osaka via Agoda.com
Best forests in Kyoto, Japan
Kibune & Kurama Forest
For an enchanting forest experience, visit the Kibune and Kurama Forest in Kyoto. It’s a favourite spot among locals for its mystical woods, river dining experience, picturesque hiking trails, outdoor baths, and panoramic mountain views. The forest looks magical during spring, summer, and even winter! Those who love long hikes can enjoy a beautiful trail from Kibune village to Kurama-dera Temple. The hike is about 2 hours, but you will encounter scenic landscapes, wooden paths and rare birds.
Location: Kibune, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112
How to reach: From Demachiyanagi Station, take the Eizan Electric Railway to Kibune-Guchi Station. From there, walk for 20 minutes and you will arrive at Kibune village.
Popular activities: Hiking, nature photography, bird-watching, forest bathing.
Hotels near Kurama Forest: Benidaruma – Usagi (approximately 9 km away), The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike (approximately 8 km away), and Kyoto Ryokan Shoei (approximately 16 km away).
Book your stay at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike via Agoda.com
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Mount Hiei Forest
Between Kyoto and Shiga Prefecture is Mount Hiei Forest. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is admired for its natural beauty, spiritual atmosphere and dense, calm forests. Ranging from easy to moderate, several hiking trails lead to the summit of Mount Hiei. The two popular ones are the Yase and Sakamoto trails.
Location: Hieizan, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, 520-0116
How to reach: From Demachiyanagi Station, take the Eizan Electric Railway to Yase-Hieizan-Guchi Station. From there, you can hike or take a cable car up to the mountain.
Popular activities: Hiking, nature photography, bird-watching.
Also read | Exploring Tokyo’s Vegetarian Gems: A Guide To Delicious And Healthy Food
Hotels near Mount Hiei Forest: Kyoto Ryokan Shoei (approximately 9.6 km away), Dhawa Yura Kyoto (approximately 7.8 km away), and The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto (approximately 7 km away).
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto via Agoda.com
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest doesn’t need an introduction because of its widespread social media popularity. Known for its thick and towering bamboo groves, this small forest provides a unique sensory experience. Visit early in the morning, between 6-8 am, to avoid the crowd. Once you have finished exploring the bamboo forest, visit nearby attractions like Tenryu-ji Temple, Iwatayama Monkey Park and Arashiyama Park.
Location: Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394
How to reach: Take the JR San-in Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station. It’s a short walk from the station to the bamboo forest.
Popular activities: Leisure strolling, photography, and exploring nearby teashops and eateries.
Hotels near Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Ryokan Yamazaki (approximately 3 km away), Hoshinoya Kyoto (approximately 1 km away), and Momijiya Bekkan Kawanoiori (approximately 4.1 km away).
Book your stay at Momijiya Bekkan Kawanoiori via Agoda.com
Book your stay at Momijiya Bekkan Kawanoiori via Tripadvisor.com
Tips to remember while visiting Japan’s forests
Keep these tips in mind while visiting forests in Japan.
- Always check the weather app before visiting any forest. If the weather is unstable and rough, visit the forest on a different day.
- During spring and summer, wear light and breathable clothes. During autumn and winter, always dress in layers. Carry appropriate footwear and an extra pair of clothes just in case.
- It’s prohibited to feed wild animals if you encounter any.
- Carry water and snacks when trekking, as vending machines and convenience stores will be scarce.
- To maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the forests, avoid speaking loudly, singing, or playing loud music on your phone/Bluetooth speakers.
- Before hiking on a forest path, use the restroom since some paths have limited amenities.
- Avoid littering the forest if you can not find a trashcan. Carry your trash with you to avoid disturbing the natural atmosphere.
- Some trekking paths are marked off-limits. Do not explore any path that has a no-entry sign.
- Visiting the forest during the daytime is safer.
- Carry a map of the forest, portable Wifi for GPS tracking, an emergency kit, insect repellent, a flashlight, medicine, and a whistle for a smooth and safe travel experience.
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(Feature image credit: Masaaki Komori/Unsplash)
Related | Go Beyond The Tourist Trail To Savour The Experiences You Can Only Get In Japan
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Yakushima island is famous for ancient cedar trees, natural hot springs, pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, rich biodiversity, and sea turtle nesting site. The landscape of Yakushima inspired the setting for The Studio Ghibli Film Princess Mononoke.
If you're looking for easy-to-moderate forest hikes in Japan, check out Shiratani Unsuikyo in Yakushima, Mount Takao in Tokyo, Nikko Cedar Avenue in Tochigi Prefecture, Kawazu Seven Waterfalls in Izu and Mount Koya in Wakayama Prefecture.
Aokigahara forest is known as a "Suicide Forest" as it is a common site for suicides. In the 9th century, Mt Fuji erupted that later gave rise to the Aokigahara Forest. The forest is beautiful, and as long as you travel in a group during the daytime and stick to a designated trail, you can enjoy this place.
The most common trees found in Japanese forests are Japanese Cedar (Sugi), Japanese Cypress (Hinoki), Japanese Maple (Momiji), Japanese Red Pine (Akamatsu), Cherry Blossom (Sakura), bamboo, Horse Chestnut (Tochinoki) and Japanese Beech (Buna).
It's a Japanese practice that encourages people to spend time in nature. Take in the smells and sounds of the forest. To practice gratitude, observe greenery and enjoy the textures and colours of nature. Forest bathing has several benefits like mood improvement, mental clarity, stress reduction, and improved immunity.
There are plenty of national parks in Japan, but the most popular ones are Yakushima National Park, Nikko National Park, Ogasawara National Park, Daitsetsuzan National Park, Hakone National Park, and Shiretoko National Park.
Japanese forests are home to a wide variety of unique wildlife like the Japanese Macaque in Nagano, the Sika Deer in Nara, the Japanese Black Bear in Shikoku and Honshu, the Japanese pheasant in grasslands and the Blakiston's Fish Owl in Hokkaido.
Since Shintoism and Buddhism are intertwined with nature, it's common to find shrines and temples in Japan's forests. Some of the most popular spiritual forests are the Meiji Jingu Forest in Tokyo, Tadasu no Mori in Kyoto, Cedar Forests of Yakushima, Kasagu Primeval Forest in Nara, and the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Forests in Wakayama.
Yes, most forests in Japan are safe for tourists. Not only are they well-maintained, but also have clear paths and multiple language signages. It is always advisable to check the weather beforehand, wear appropriate clothing, travel during the day, and travel in groups if possible.
Yes, many guided tour options are available to explore forests in Japan. While some require advanced online reservations, you can always check with the city/town's information centre.
If you like vast dunes, visit Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori Prefecture. For greenery and wetlands visit Oze National Park and lush woodlands and untouched waterfalls, pick Akame 48 Waterfalls Forest. Which forest in Japan are you eager to visit first? Whichever you choose, we’re sure it will be worth the trip!
Written By
Sharon Alphonso
Sharon is from Mumbai and currently lives in Tokyo with her Japanese husband. Before moving to Japan, ..Read More
