When one pictures Japan, thoughts of exotic culture, cuisine, fashion, famous cities, and landmarks such as the world-renown Mt. Fuji come to mind. But what about Aokigahara – The Blue Meadow Forest? Formed after the last major eruption of Mt.Fuji in 864 AD, it became a forest so dense and the lava rock it sits on so porous, that sound is absorbed to the point of leaving one with a sense of solitude, and can easily get lost if you don't stay on its path, thus becoming a 'yurei', a faint spirit.
In the 1960's, it was associated with suicide and given its nick-name, The Suicide Forest. Having gained the terrible reputation of being the most used site for taking one's own life, this prompted authorities to put up signs encouraging visitors to think of their family and loved ones, and to contact the suicide prevention association. In 2003 alone, 105 bodies were found in the forest – poor souls that got lost or intended never to return. Understanding the issues concerning suicide is the first step to take part in suicide prevention. If you or a loved one need help, please contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org “Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle” – Christian D. Larsen..........
by Aki Solomos
In the 1960's, it was associated with suicide and given its nick-name, The Suicide Forest. Having gained the terrible reputation of being the most used site for taking one's own life, this prompted authorities to put up signs encouraging visitors to think of their family and loved ones, and to contact the suicide prevention association. In 2003 alone, 105 bodies were found in the forest – poor souls that got lost or intended never to return. Understanding the issues concerning suicide is the first step to take part in suicide prevention. If you or a loved one need help, please contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org “Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle” – Christian D. Larsen..........
by Aki Solomos