Aokigahara Forest Tours
64 Reviews
The dense Aokigahara Forest lies at the northwestern base of Mount Fuji, the iconic, near-symmetrical cone-shaped mountain that rises in eastern Japan. It holds the grim distinction of being the second-most popular destination for people intent on dying by suicide. Despite this, it’s a peaceful place to hike and enjoy nature.
The Basics
The Aokigahara Forest is made up mostly of hemlock fir, Japanese cypress, and other evergreen needle-leaf trees. Because it is so dense and easy to get lost in, for centuries it has been a popular place for the desperate to go to end their lives. There are signs throughout the forest warning people of the danger of getting lost here, and asking them to seek help if they’re feeling suicidal. Many Japanese people believe that the forest is haunted.
Keen hikers can go to Aokigahara independently and explore at their own pace. Alternatively, some sightseeing tours around Fuji and the Fujigoko region include a stop at Aokigahara. There’s a fun cave to explore that can only be accessed on a guided tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you do happen to come across the remains of someone who has died here, report your discovery to the local authorities.
- For your safety, stick to the marked trails throughout the forest.
- A popular walking route follows a marked track from the Fugaku Wind Cave to the Ice Cave.
How to Get There
The most convenient way of reaching Aokigahara from Tokyo is by bus. Take the JR Bus Kanto from Tokyo Station, or the Basuta Shinjuku from Shinjuku Station, and get off at Kawaguchiko. Each trip takes about two hours. From Kawaguchiko, take a local bus to Aokigahara, or hike there.
When to Get There
While it’s possible to visit at any time, Japan’s winters are cold and it’s common to find snow at ground level around Mount Fuji in the winter. Mid-summer can be very hot and humid. For the most comfortable hiking conditions, visit in spring or autumn.
Hike Up Mount Fuji
In the summer, Mount Fuji is covered in climbers. Most start their ascent from the fifth station part-way up the mountain, but adventure-lovers can begin from the pilgrim’s route that monks traditionally followed, starting at the base of the mountain. This adds a full day of walking to the normal two-day climb, but the more gentle rise in altitude can be a good option for fit hikers.
Address: Aokigahara Forest, Japan
3 Tours and Activities to Experience Aokigahara Forest
Select Dates
Sort by:Featured
Day TripsMt Fuji Aokigahara Forest and Cave Exploring from Tokyo
Take a quick nature-lover’s day trip to the majestic Mt. Fuji and forest of Aokigahara, offering the perfect break from Tokyo’s fast-paced hustle and bustle. Enjoy the impressive views from Mount Fuji’s 7,610 foot-high (2,305 meter) 5th Station and join a guide for a one-of-a-kind visit inside an ice cave typically off-limits to the public. Your excursion includes pick-up in Tokyo (at select hotels), transport and entrance fees, local guide and evening drop-off in Tokyo’s nightlife hotspot of Shinjuku.
... More
- 11 hours 30 minutes
- Taking safety measures
From
$180.75
Day TripsPrivate Tour: Chartered Car to Mt. Fuji Lake Kawaguchiko or Hakone and Lake Ashi
Find the best viewpoints on this private tour from Tokyo via minivan. Choose between visiting Mt. Fuji or Hakone and relax as your guide navigates twisting mountain roads with ease en route to sites such as Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Ashi, and Arakurayama Sengen Park. This full-day tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide available in several languages, and the possibility to curate your trip to suit your interests—a privilege only allowed by a private tour.
... More
- 10 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$761.05
per group
Dining Experiences1 Night Stay - Mt Fuji. Traditional Culture & Outdoor Experience Tour
Explore the natural beauty and healing wonder of the lakes, forests and villages at the base of Mt Fuji Five Lakes Region. Hiking, Kayaking, Caving and more...
> Explore a traditional Japanese Thatched Roof Village and the Kubota Kimono Museum and Gardens.
> Discover delicious local cuisine and spend a restful night embraced in Japanese rural hospitality.
> Experience hiking to wondrous caves in the Aokigahara Lava Forest, kayaking on the lake and more...
Our professional outdoor instructors and cultural interpreters provide private, tailor made adventures experience and leisurely tours for all levels from beginners to experts.
... More
- 2 days
- Free Cancellation
From
$239.05
Things to do near Tokyo
Things to do in KantoThings to do in MusashinoThings to do in YokohamaThings to do in KawagoeThings to do in ChibaThings to do in KamakuraThings to do in HakoneThings to do in KyotoThings to do in OsakaThings to do in SapporoThings to do in BusanThings to do in Tokyo PrefectureThings to do in Saitama PrefectureThings to do in NaganoThings to do in Chiba Prefecture