3 Idyllic Places to Practice Japanese 'Forest Bathing'

Your next vacation may be the perfect time to take up shinrin-yoku, or ‘forest bathing.’ Wellness fans around the world are embracing the Japanese practice of immersing yourself deeply into the atmosphere of the woods, and the broader concept of spending more time in nature to improve your health and well-being.

Renowned for their centuries-old practices of ritualized baths in outdoor or indoor thermal hot springs that dot Japan, the newer term of ‘forest bathing’ perhaps attempts to reflect how immersion in nature confers similar wellness benefits on participants as thermal baths.

Unlike hiking or nature walks, forest bathing is less about physical exercise and more about being mindful and connecting with nature through all five senses.

It’s deeply rooted in Japan’s cultural and spiritual traditions, including its indigenous Shinto spirituality, which sees forests – all natural spaces – as sacred places where spirits live, as well as pan-Asian Buddhism, which emphasizes mindfulness and presence. In that way, shinrin-yoku reflects Japanese Shinto-Buddhism as a philosophy and a holistic practice that nurtures both mind and body.

The best part of forest bathing? It requires no special skills, equipment or fitness level. Just walk. It’s not a race. Or even a hike.

Shinrin-yoku involves just walking slowly through a forest, pausing to observe the surroundings, breathing deeply, and engaging your senses. Mindful of never harming anything in the forest, participants are still encouraged to touch the bark of trees, listen to the rustling of leaves, smell the forest air, and even taste the fresh, clean air. The goal is to be present in the moment and to experience the forest with a sense of wonder, like it’s the very first time you’ve ever been in a forest.

Maybe it is the first time you’ve ever experienced a forest this way.

Numerous scientific studies have validated the health benefits of forest bathing. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress hormones like cortisol, lower blood pressure, and boost the immune system. It also enhances mood, increases energy levels, and improves sleep. One significant finding is that phytoncides, natural oils released by trees, have antimicrobial properties that can boost the human immune system. Forest bathing can also improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and symptoms of ADHD.

While shinrin-yoku originated in Japan, its benefits have led to global adoption. Countries like South Korea, Finland, and the United States have incorporated forest therapy into wellness programs.

In Japan, there are designated forest therapy bases with guided sessions led by trained practitioners. Modern technology has even brought virtual forest bathing experiences to those who cannot access natural forests.

Japan has numerous designated forest therapy bases with guided tours and facilities designed to enhance the forest bathing experience.

Here are three places for travelers to Japan to explore ancient trees, pristine nature and connect deeply with Japan’s natural beauty:

Located at the northwest base of Mount Fuji, Aokigahara is easily accessible as a day trip from Tokyo. There are guided tours to help navigate and understand the forest’s unique ecosystem.

· Unique Landscape: Aokigahara is known for its dense, lush forest growing on hardened lava, from the last major eruption of Mount Fuji in 864 CE.

· Caves: The forest is home to fascinating lava tubes, such as the Narusawa Ice Cave and the Fugaku Wind Cave, which offer a cool escape in summer.

· Myth and Mystery: Aokigahara has a rich cultural history and is the subject of fascinating folklore, adding a unique, atmospheric experience to forest bathing.

Off the southern coast of Kyushu, Yakushima Island is reached by ferry from Kagoshima. It offers numerous hiking trails of differing levels of challenge.

· Ancient Cedars: The island is renowned for its ancient cedar trees, some of which are thousands of years old. One famous specimen is estimated to be over 2,000 years old.

· Biodiversity: Yakushima's diverse ecosystems, from coastal areas to mountainous regions, provide a variety of plants and animals including endemic species like the Yakushima macaque and Yakushima deer, which you may be lucky enough to see while forest bathing.

· World Heritage Site: The island's lush, subtropical rainforest is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding natural beauty and ecological significance.

A mountainous region in the Tohoku region, Shirakami Sanchi can be reached by train from Tokyo or Osaka. Guided tours and information centers help visitors navigate and appreciate the region’s natural wonders.

· Pristine Beech Forests: Shirakami Sanchi is home to one of the largest remaining virgin beech forests in East Asia, offering a glimpse into ancient, untouched natural landscapes.

· Waterfalls and Streams: The area is dotted with beautiful waterfalls and clear streams, providing picturesque spots for relaxation and reflection.

· Hiking and Trekking: Numerous trails cater to all levels of hikers, from easy walks to strenuous climbs, including routes that offer stunning views of the Sea of Japan and the surrounding mountains.

These famous forests and guided walks in Japan make for incredible travel wellness experiences and the opportunity to practice forest bathing in its birthplace. But the truth is that you can find opportunities for forest bathing in many travel destinations around the world.

Perhaps forest bathing is something you can incorporate as a focal point of your travels anywhere – whether far or close to home to foster the primal, profound and healing connection between humans and nature in a world increasingly dominated by technology and urbanization.

By slowing down and immersing ourselves in the forest, we can rejuvenate our minds, bodies, and spirits, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and our place within it.