Aokigahara

Aokigahara, often referred to as the Sea of Trees, is a dense forest located at the northwestern flank of Japan's Mount Fuji. This sprawling 35-square-kilometer forest holds a mystique as thick as its tree cover, with a history rich in folklore and modern narratives that have given it an eerie reputation.

The forest floor is comprised of hardened lava, the result of a historic eruption of Mount Fuji in 864 CE, creating an uneven and cavernous terrain that adds to the forest's secluded ambiance. The dense growth of trees and absence of wildlife sounds contribute to Aokigahara's uniquely quiet atmosphere, where even wind seems to be absorbed by the thick foliage.

Despite its natural beauty, Aokigahara is more infamously known as a place where people have chosen to end their lives, earning it the somber moniker of "Suicide Forest." Authorities have made efforts to combat this association, including posting signs with messages of encouragement and reminders of family and community support, as well as conducting regular patrols to aid any individuals in distress.

Visitors to Aokigahara are encouraged to stay on designated trails, as the forest's dense nature can disorient even experienced hikers and render compasses unreliable due to the rich deposits of magnetic iron in the volcanic soil. The forest also offers sights such as the Narusawa Ice Cave and the Fugaku Wind Cave, popular attractions that showcase the natural beauty and geological significance of the area.