Forest Giants Walking Tour
Expert: Teruyuki Kuchu
Why explore the forests of Japan?
Well for one thing, 68% of Japan is covered in forests, so if travelers come to Japan and don’t experience a Japanese forest, they are missing out on most of Japan’s natural landscape. Cities like Kyoto are world-famous for their beautiful gardens and exquisite landscaping. And it is true what they say that art imitates life. Garden artisans draw inspiration from the natural world, and forests across Japan are the muses for many of the iconic manicured landscapes. Just as visitors flock to the cities to see the groves of planted cherry blossoms, there is something intangible about seeing a verdant mountainside dotted by natural mountain cherry blossom trees. Japan is known for its large swaths of cedar, but there is a huge variety of flora waiting to be found for those who know where to look.
Why explore the forests of Kyoto by the Sea?
While Kyoto by the Sea is, as the name suggests, on the sea, the coastline is quite dynamic and gives way to forest-covered mountains. The region is large and stretches across some unique and rare forests, one of which is in the mountains of Ayabe and located near one of Japan’s National Treasures, Niomon Gate. Not far from Ayabe Onsen is the National Treasure, Niomon Gate, the entrance gate to Kyomoji Temple, set in a beautiful broadleaf forest that is spectacular in the fall. But the real secret of the area is a primeval forest even deeper into the mountain. And in this primeval forest are some incredible forest giants, one of which is a Horse Chestnut tree said to be upwards of 2,000-years-old. The trail leading up to this mammoth tree is filled with quiet giants and bio-richness.
About our expert:
It would be difficult to find a stronger proponent for the Ayabe forests than Teruyuki Kuchu, who lives in the forests of Ayabe himself and runs a guesthouse there with his family. They are models of countryside living, carrying on and preserving traditional ways of life and helping to spread the appeal of the Japanese satoyama to others. They develop experiences that convey the truest essences of Japan, experiences that should not be missed by anyone who wants an authentic and unforgettable visit to Japan.
Where is this experience?
Looking to book this experience? Need more information? Let us know!