15 Things About Japan’s Suicide Forest That Will Terrify You

6. Searches Have Been Held Every Year Since 1970

The Suicide Forest is known for being vast and dense, making it hard for people to find the bodies of those who have departed from this world. But just because it’s hard, it doesn’t mean that people don’t put in the effort every year. Those who patrol the area do good deeds by trying to ward people away from the idea of suicide. Accompanied by these people are those who perform annual patrols. However, these patrols are not for those who are still living. These good souls go search for the people whose bodies are still missing. The forest can be a confusing and treacherous place, which is why certain people willingly go searching so others will not have to. Once they find the bodies, they bring them back to the city where they can be identified and prepared for the proper burial. This is the best way many feel they can put the spirits at peace.

5. If You’re Camping, Expect Some Visitors

Imagine you’ve decided on Aokigahara as your camping destination. You go deep into the forest and finally find a spot that looks suitable. You set everything up and you’re relaxing in your tent when suddenly you hear something outside. When you open your tent, there is a person standing there, watching you. This is something you may come across should you decide to camp in the Suicide Forest. While camping is certainly allowed, it is believed by many that bringing a tent along suggests that you are planning to commit suicide, but are still unsure of what you will do next. Some people who have already committed the act decided to do just that and waited for days until they decided to finally end it all. It’s unfortunate and if you decide to go camping inside the deep forest, you might want to anticipate those patrolling about, ready to talk you out of your actions, if need be.