Shikoku Forest

If you’re from Europe (like me), the word “forest” brings to mind lovely trails, peaceful weekend walks, autumn mushroom picking, or playing in the cool shade during summer. As a kid, we’d drive to a nearby forest, park the car, and just wander around, not really appreciating how much of that landscape had been shaped and maintained by humans for hundreds of years.

Japan, though, tells a completely different story. Here, forests are often dense, untamed, and wild. You can’t just casually stroll in and expect a relaxing walk. Instead, you’re met with steep slopes, thick vegetation, and often harsh, humid conditions. It quickly becomes clear that when nature is left untouched—especially in tropical or subtropical areas—it’s rarely your friend. It’s awe-inspiring, but also a humbling reminder of how wild and powerful the natural world can be.