Aokigahara Forest
Aokigahara Forest
4.5
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
4.5
168 reviews
Excellent
83
Very good
57
Average
24
Poor
4
Terrible
0
geelongexpat
Melbourne, Australia1,245 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
This forest is full of life. There is moss and ferns growing everywhere. I’ve never seen the outdoors look so green. There is also some interesting folklore about the forests. You can hear the wind blow through the caves in parts, which is appropriately eerie. I did the walk from the caves down to Lake Shoji and found it sufficient. There is another trail that starts from Lake Shoji that I didn’t get to explore but I would’ve liked to.
Written 30 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Komator
Barcelona, Spain902 contributions
Jul 2019
The Aokigahara forest is a very dense and relaxed forest. There are several trails to walk around. It has kind of a bad history (the main character of a novel commited suicide there and several people immitated him), but it's worth spending some hours walking around.
Written 19 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gsgman777
Columbia, IL806 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
We first visited the Wind Cave and then took the path through the forest to visit the Ice Cave. I believe it was about a 20-30 minute walk. It's so green and peaceful but if you get off the path it would be very easy to get lost. Everything looks the same in every direction.
Obviously everyone knows what this forest is most known. Our initial interest was because of it being "haunted". It was surprisingly peaceful and beautiful and the caves were awesome and there is so much to see around the area.
Obviously everyone knows what this forest is most known. Our initial interest was because of it being "haunted". It was surprisingly peaceful and beautiful and the caves were awesome and there is so much to see around the area.
Written 26 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Zimminaroundtheworld
Okinawa Prefecture, Japan1,970 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
I visited Aokigahara Forest to explore Wind and Ice Cave and to go on a hike. We all know this forest as "Suicide Forest" but it is unfortunate it is seen in such a negative way. I hiked a few trails within the forest and found it to be peaceful and beautiful. I even saw a few deer. I recommend visiting Aokigahara Forest and enjoy it for the nature.
Written 12 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mercedes Jayne
Gabriola Island, Canada94 contributions
May 2016 • Solo
Ok, so intellectually I knew that there was the possibility of seeing someone hanging from a tree. After all, isn't that half the reason to visit a place so aptly named? But I didn't REALLY expect to see it. So when I saw some blue tape going off the side trail (which was already beyond the "do not enter" sign), I thought it was just another place to hike. Then I saw a black shape, and was like "O. M. G." I got close enough to confirm that yes indeed, that's a person. Or else someone's sick idea of a joke. I didn't get close enough to check. I high-tailed it out of there, made way for the store at Wind Cave entrance, and tried to communicate what I'd found to the staff. They didn't speak English, and apparently Google doesn't translate "I found a body in the forest" comprehensibly, so I resorted to the universal gesture for "person hanging by a rope." Boy, that got their attention! Eventually they found a park ranger who spoke some English and asked me to describe the location, but given my difficulty in describing where it was, I offered to take him to the site. When we go there, it was swarming with police and paramedics, so obviously someone had already beat me to it.
So yeah. It's a beautiful forest, very calm and peaceful, serene. Until you find a body. Then it's like stepping into another world.
So yeah. It's a beautiful forest, very calm and peaceful, serene. Until you find a body. Then it's like stepping into another world.
Written 22 May 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CBGS-Travels
Hong Kong, China230 contributions
Dec 2014 • Friends
I read that this place is a famous suicide spot, one of the creepiest places on this planet and all the local claim that it is haunted. I went there with a friend on a afternoon to explore the claims of it being haunted. The nature trails are clearly marked and also beautiful. The trees grow on volcanic rock which makes it difficult to walk when straying form the path. It is safe to walk along the path but at one point you will come to a road block which says do not enter. If you continue on the forbidden area and stray from the main path this is where things get interesting a scary. The forest beyond is filled with ribbons marking the way to suicide spots. We walked far off the main path (about 4 hours) and found disturbing things. It is best to keep on the main path if you don't want to encounter bones scattered on the floor or even bodies. Even though I do not believe in the super natural I couldn't shake the feeling that something was very wrong, deep in the forest. My advice is to keep along the path and do not cross the no entry signs unless you want to creep yourself out.
Here is my YouTube Journey into the forest:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OD53QBxhiM
Here is my YouTube Journey into the forest:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OD53QBxhiM
Written 19 March 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arwing
United Kingdom54 contributions
May 2016 • Solo
Aokigahara Forest is this locations proper name. Though it's also known as "Suicide Forest" and "Sea of Trees". The former because many Japanese have come here in the past to commit suicide. The latter because when viewed from above, the tree tops swaying in the wind resemble the choppy waters of an ocean. There are several options on how to reach the nature trail. The best way is to take the "Green Line" tourist bus to "Saiko Bat Cave". From here you can enter the trail to Aokigahara.
I spent the entire day, walking all the trails (took me from 10:00 - 15:00). Though i have spoken to others who only spent 20 minutes walking a single path. To get the most out of this forest, you really do have to explore EVERYWHERE. There are signs and maps along the trails, but they're all in Japanese. What i did was, plan my route and then took photos of the area names from the map on the trail. I then compare the symbols (Kanji) with the signs seen along the way. A guide isn't needed. A compass and map or a GPS is recommended though. Despite the ghost stories you may hear, compasses work fine here - mine did at least.
One thing to look out for are what i've nicknamed the "Banshee Blossoms". Their scientific name is Monotropastrum Humile. They're a ghost white colour as they don't photosynthesise like other plants. They resemble tiny white tulips with a bell like head and generally only bloom during the months of May, June and July. While they aren't rare, Aokigahara isn't exactly overgrown with them either. And because of their tiny size, they'd be easy to miss or overlook if you're not keeping an eye out for them. (i've included a photo of them with this review).
Because of the large number of suicides here (which mostly take place in the part of the forest leading up Mount Fuji - NOT on the designated nature trails - though it's not unheard of), the forest is preceded with ghost stories, superstition and folklore. Without this knowledge, you'll just have a pleasant walk through a forest. But if you do your research, you may see a more eerie side to the forest. Keep an eye out for the Tengu too. If you're feeling brave, you can camp here.
Throughout the forest trails you will also have the option to visit several caves (Bat, Lava, Ice and Wind). While entry to the forest is FREE, these caves incur their own entrance fees (300 YEN +). Lake Saiko is also within walking distance.
I spent the entire day, walking all the trails (took me from 10:00 - 15:00). Though i have spoken to others who only spent 20 minutes walking a single path. To get the most out of this forest, you really do have to explore EVERYWHERE. There are signs and maps along the trails, but they're all in Japanese. What i did was, plan my route and then took photos of the area names from the map on the trail. I then compare the symbols (Kanji) with the signs seen along the way. A guide isn't needed. A compass and map or a GPS is recommended though. Despite the ghost stories you may hear, compasses work fine here - mine did at least.
One thing to look out for are what i've nicknamed the "Banshee Blossoms". Their scientific name is Monotropastrum Humile. They're a ghost white colour as they don't photosynthesise like other plants. They resemble tiny white tulips with a bell like head and generally only bloom during the months of May, June and July. While they aren't rare, Aokigahara isn't exactly overgrown with them either. And because of their tiny size, they'd be easy to miss or overlook if you're not keeping an eye out for them. (i've included a photo of them with this review).
Because of the large number of suicides here (which mostly take place in the part of the forest leading up Mount Fuji - NOT on the designated nature trails - though it's not unheard of), the forest is preceded with ghost stories, superstition and folklore. Without this knowledge, you'll just have a pleasant walk through a forest. But if you do your research, you may see a more eerie side to the forest. Keep an eye out for the Tengu too. If you're feeling brave, you can camp here.
Throughout the forest trails you will also have the option to visit several caves (Bat, Lava, Ice and Wind). While entry to the forest is FREE, these caves incur their own entrance fees (300 YEN +). Lake Saiko is also within walking distance.
Written 30 May 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dswenk
Santa Maria, CA128 contributions
Nov 2018
Aokigahara Forest is a must see when visiting Mount Fuji. Set at its base, it is also known as the Suicide Forest, made famous in movies like The Forest and has a dark history where many people have taken their lives. It is also said to be inhabited by Yurei, dark spirits of the dead who will urge people to take their lives when in the forest. Its set on top of a lava field so the trees are tangled and warped. Its truly dark and foreboding. What will also set your imagination off is how quiet it is in the woods, no birds singing or signs of life. At entrances to the forest there are signs imploring people to seek out help and not kill themselves.
Besides the macabre it is also a beautiful hike and I found it peaceful. Trails are gentle in slope but there is a lot of lava rubble you need to be aware of that can turn an ankle. I highly recommend, however, do not get off the trails as you can get lost. The urban legends that compasses do not work in the forest I think are not true as my compass always worked. I can see how people have gotten lost in the forest, you may come up to strings of tape, be very cautious as those contemplating suicide use them either to find their way back, or to be found later. Suicides still happen way too often than not to this day.
Be dressed for weather, it gets very cold in the forest and gets dark very early so make sure you come early and prepared. Best way to get it is to go to the entrance of the Narusawa Ice Cave, there is a large parking lot there or the Wind Cave.
Besides the macabre it is also a beautiful hike and I found it peaceful. Trails are gentle in slope but there is a lot of lava rubble you need to be aware of that can turn an ankle. I highly recommend, however, do not get off the trails as you can get lost. The urban legends that compasses do not work in the forest I think are not true as my compass always worked. I can see how people have gotten lost in the forest, you may come up to strings of tape, be very cautious as those contemplating suicide use them either to find their way back, or to be found later. Suicides still happen way too often than not to this day.
Be dressed for weather, it gets very cold in the forest and gets dark very early so make sure you come early and prepared. Best way to get it is to go to the entrance of the Narusawa Ice Cave, there is a large parking lot there or the Wind Cave.
Written 3 December 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
midoriu864
Minato, Japan104 contributions
Sept 2014 • Friends
Okay, this place was genuinely creepy. And I'm saying this as a fairly brave guy; the forest creeped me out. As you probably know, this is the top suicide place in the world, so there's bodies all around you in various stages of decomposition (the police certainly remove any they can, but as you can see the forest is very thick).
We came across a suicide site. No body, but still... ask yourself if this is something you want to see. I loved the atmosphere, but seeing that kind of made it a bit too real.
Advice, stay on the main path. There are ZERO landmarks to help you find your bearings if you get even slightly turned around (can't even see the sun very well).
Also, DO NOT go into this forest if you have any history of depression etc.
We came across a suicide site. No body, but still... ask yourself if this is something you want to see. I loved the atmosphere, but seeing that kind of made it a bit too real.
Advice, stay on the main path. There are ZERO landmarks to help you find your bearings if you get even slightly turned around (can't even see the sun very well).
Also, DO NOT go into this forest if you have any history of depression etc.
Written 25 September 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bryan W
3 contributions
Apr 2015 • Solo
Went strolling around the forest on April, while fujiyama is not accesible yet. It was a serene, quiet forest and very little tourist. I feel that the notoriety of suicide forest doesn't do justice for such a beautiful place. I believe if you do not go off designated tracks you will not run into a corpse. I went off track for half an hour, and only seen a few ribbons which one lead to a tombstone and rest leads to nowhere. In April maybe the leaves are not fully grown yet, it was bright with breeze, and felt nothing like what legends described as dark, creepy, isolated etc.
Written 23 April 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, Shig31, you said "You can get here by buying the 2-day Sightseeing Bus ticket, which is a huge saving for to-and-fro travel to this area. This is available at Kawaguchiko Station" By this, is it possible to get to Aokigahra from Tokyo with the 2-day sightseeing bus ticket? I plan to hike this forest and I would be getting there from Tokyo.
Thanks in advance for taking time to answer.
Written 4 August 2022
Salve, mi chiamo Michela e sono una studentessa della Federico II di Napoli. Sto conducendo una ricerca sulla foresta di Aokigahara. Vorrei sapere, da coloro che l'hanno visitata, la motivazione che li ha spinti ad andare. Se per puro divertimento-passatempo, per la sensazione di macabro che trasmette o altro. Grazie dell'aiuto.
Written 10 June 2021
Where is the small parking lot that is referenced in movies with the abandoned cars and in people’s blogs that leads to the entrance to the forest?
We’ve been through the ice cave entrances and the trail around there. Isn’t there one on route 71?
Does anyone have a google map reference?
I’d like to visit it again but away from the more touristy areas. Last trip we ran into several groups of tourists.
Written 7 April 2020
Actually that's probably for show and not so much a reality. The local Japanese government removes these things quickly. There are various parking lots with entrance into the forest proper.
Written 8 April 2020
If you want to experience convenience, stay at a hotel near the main bus terminal that's just next to the train station.
Get the 2-day bus pass that allows you to travel unlimited rides to the forest. It's about a 35min journey from the terminal to the forest. Hope that helps.
Written 15 March 2020
Where can we find the green line buses? Is it near the kawaguchiko station or is it in the kawaguchiko station?
Written 21 July 2019
Soap mouth
Antarctic Peninsula
Nah dont worry logan paul is there if you get lost.
Written 27 August 2019
I have wanted to visit for the beautiful experience of the forest. Are you able to visit both caves in one tour? Or would you have to designate it to one per visit?
I haven't been able to find answers but can visitors sign up to be able to volunteer to help restore lost loved ones to their families? I want to be able help others but not by going against restrictions or rules.
Written 20 May 2019
Do visit the forest, it is beautiful. Also yes it is possible to visit both caves in one trip, they are only about 2 Km apart from each other.
As for volunteering, i would inquire through a Consulate or local government agency.
Written 26 May 2019
Hi I was wondering if you happen to remember the guide you did the tour with?
I am looking to explore the forest a little more than your regular walk through to get to the caves and am having a bit of trouble finding the best way to do so, thank you.
Emma :)
Written 5 May 2019
Yes you do pay but if my memory serves it is not at all expensive.
Written 6 May 2019
Hi There,
Is it possible to access the forest without a tour package? I would like to visit Mount Fuji, the lakes and the forest but I'm reluctant of going in a tour.
Written 2 April 2019
Sorry, you've been waiting a long time for an answer, so I don't know if you need one anymore. But yes! My family and I visited two of the lakes, saw Mt. Fuji from the ground, and took a walk through Aokigahara, all without a tour, since we don't prefer tours either. It was an absolutely stunning experience, and I hope you are getting to go, or have already went!
Written 23 May 2019
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