For most of us heading to this region of Japan, the summit of Fuji is
the goal. However,Fuji Sama is only an island that rises in the midst
of a vast, mysterious primeval forest. The awe inspiring Aokigahara.
In this forest are hidden many unique natural treasures. Lava flows
lie hidden under deep beds of moss. Networks of ancient footpaths
pass timidly through the shade, guarded by armies of stone statues
(Jizo); guardians against the unseen but certainly felt consciousness
hidden in the shadows of the trees. Many of them so ancient that
their features have been worn smooth by the weather.
Ancient casts of long dead trees lie next to these trails as eternal
memorials of ancient forests whose beginnings lie in mythological times.
Mysterious portals open within the lava leading to wonderlands of ice
and rock.
I guess I should warn you, Aokigahara is infamous as a place to leave
this world either by design (a branch and a noose) or by accident (
losing your way). Don't let its reputation disuade you however, It is filled
with wonders, but be prepared.
Take a map and plan your route. It may seem from the outside looking
in that it would be difficult to get lost, just head up or down right? But
once in the forest you realize that there are no flat spots at all and it is
impossible to navigate simply by slope. There are so many dips, holes,
hollows ans wrinkles that it is impossible to know which way is up.
Also if you step off the trail, be prepared for rough travel. Bring food
water, a light, and rain gear. Tell someone where you are going and
when you will return.
Finally don't rely on your compass alone. Some areas of the forest have
so much iron in the rock, that they don't always point north!
Along the boarders of this forest are more civilized but equally ancient and enchanting areas like the Fuji
5-lakes with their submerged cold springs and the many small communities, each with their famous products,
festivals, and captivating local color.
One of the great museums is the Susono Municipal Mt. Fuji Museum with nature trails, a cafe, and exhibits
and dioramas on the geology of the congolmerate of volcanoes piled one on top of the other that make Mt.
Fuji reach to the sky.
If you are coming from Tokyo or points north get on Route 139 from Kawaguchiko. Keep in mind
that on weekends and holidays you could be caught in traffic for hours. Bring a good map and
you can find alternate routes. Your also going to need a topographical hiking map of the area to
locate trails and trail heads. I'll feature a couple of good hikes in the near future so keep
checking back or e-mail me.
How to Get There
