Language
Country/Area
No result found
Dancing with Nature: What Amazing Ecosystems Are There in Aokigahara Forest?
Aokigahara Forest, located on the northwest slope of Mount Fuji on the island of Honshu, Japan, is a spectacular forest covering 30 square kilometers, covered with hardened lava formed by the last large-scale eruption of Mount Fuji in 864. This sea of trees is not only a natural wonder, but also a place with a rich ecosystem that attracts many tourists and student groups to explore.
The western side of Aokigahara is home to several caves that freeze over in winter and is a popular tourist destination where visitors can experience an almost serene atmosphere.
Geographical environment
The forest floor is made up primarily of volcanic rock, and designated trails lead to tourist attractions such as the Narusawa Ice Cave, the Fugaku Wind Cave, and the Saiko Bat Cave, all of which are fairly well-known lava caves. Aokigahara is also known for its fascinating magnetic field, and many visitors have found that their compasses go awry within the forest, which is related to the natural magnetism of the rocks. Since 1956, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force has conducted navigation training for mountaineering courses here, which also shows the diversity and uniqueness of the forest.
Plants and Animals
Aokigahara Forest has a rich ecosystem with many native plants and animals. The mammals here include the Asiatic black bear, Nara mole, Honshū sika deer, as well as various species of bats and mice, making the biodiversity of this forest quite interesting. At the same time, many birds such as the Great Green Canary, Japanese Woodpecker and Raven also live here. As for reptiles and invertebrates, Aokigahara also has many representatives, such as the black-spotted frog and the Japanese snake.
The forest includes a variety of coniferous and broad-leaved trees, and many abundant herbs and flowers also bloom here, showing the unique natural charm of Aokigahara.
Suicide
Aokigahara Forest is sometimes referred to as Japan's suicide hotspot, with frequent suicides occurring in recent years. As suicide rates rise, local officials have set up signs at the entrance to the forest, urging people with suicidal thoughts to seek help rather than choose extreme measures. According to statistics, the number of bodies found here reached 105 in 2003, and the highest record before that was 78. This tragic phenomenon is in part related to Aokigahara’s culture and its long history, with a growing sadness lurking in the fabric of the place.
Aokigahara is not only a natural reserve, but also a mirror that reflects social psychology. As the issue of suicide gradually receives more attention, how can we use this beautiful yet dark forest as an opportunity to explore deeper social issues?
