Aokigahara Forest

Aokigahara Forest, alternately known as the Sea of Trees, is a dense, primeval forest of mixed coniferous and broadleaf trees stretching across 30 square kilometers. The forest floor consists of volcanic rock, which is hardened lava that flowed from Mount Fuji when the volcano had a major eruption in the year 864.

The cool and humid environment of Aokigahara makes ideal growing conditions for bryophytes, including a rich variety of lush green mosses and lichen. The forest is also home to a diverse range of other flora and fauna, including deer, foxes, wild rabbits, and various kinds of birds. However, the heavy silence belies the presence of animal life in the forest: porous lava tends to absorb sound easily, which may account for the quiet and calm atmosphere.

Designated hiking paths connect three major lava caves in the Aokigahara area: the Narusawa Ice Cave, Fugaku Wind Cave, and the West Lake Bat Cave. It is a common misconception that compasses are rendered useless by the rich deposits of magnetic iron in the area’s volcanic soil; compasses used in the forest will behave as expected when held at normal height. Nevertheless, visitors are advised against straying from the official paths.