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Best forest destinations in Asia

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Yakushima
Ancient cedars, mossy forest and waterfalls
8.8
The Jomon Sugi cedar has stood on this island for at least 2,000 years. Trees older than 1,000 years are called yakusugi and many were logged in the Edo period. The island became a World Heritage site in 1993 for its ancient forest. Shiratani Unsuikyo is a mossy forest valley with walking trails.
Highlights:
  • 🐒 Spot Yakushima macaques and deer along forest trails
  • 🌳 See Jomon Sugi, Japan’s legendary 7,000-year-old cedar tree
  • 🌲 Hike through the ancient cedar forests of Shiratani Unsuikyo
Aomori
Apples, giant lantern floats and beech forests
7.9
Located at the northern end of Honshu, this prefecture has the Shirakami Sanchi beech forest, a World Heritage site. It was listed in 1993 for its large area of untouched beech forest. Oirase Gorge has a 14 kilometer walking trail beside a clear stream with moss covered rocks. Autumn leaves are colorful in October.
Highlights:
  • 🍎 Taste fresh apples and local seafood at Aomori markets
  • ♨️ Relax in a hot spring overlooking snow-capped mountains
  • 🎆 Experience the vibrant Nebuta Matsuri summer festival floats
Shiretoko National Park
Brown bears and drift ice in Hokkaido
8.3
Unlike most Japanese forests, this peninsula has a large brown bear population and a wild, remote coastline. It is a World Heritage site because forest and sea ecosystems are closely linked. Drift ice floats off the coast in winter and attracts sea eagles. Visits to the Five Lakes have bear safety rules.
Highlights:
  • ♨️ Hike to Kamuiwakka Hot Falls and soak feet
  • 🛥️ Take a wildlife boat cruise to see bears
  • 🌲 Walk the scenic Shiretoko Five Lakes boardwalk
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Fuji, Hakone, Izu and volcanic islands
8.8
Calm and green, this national park has cedar, beech and pine forests around Mount Fuji. Old cedar trees stand beside part of the historic Tokaido road near Hakone. Forest trails near the Fuji Five Lakes pass lava caves and quiet lakes. The Amagi mountains on the Izu Peninsula have evergreen forests and waterfalls.
Highlights:
  • 🥚 Explore volcanic vents and black eggs at Owakudani
  • ♨️ Relax in Hakone’s renowned hot spring baths
  • 🗻 Climb iconic Mount Fuji for sunrise views
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