Introduction
Koajiro Forest(小網代の森), nestled in the Miura Peninsula, is a natural treasure that offers a rare connection to nature. With its rich biodiversity, visitors can explore the unspoiled wilderness and experience the harmony of the coastal and forest ecosystems in a peaceful environment. In this article, I show you how to trail the forest with a model trekking course.
Trekking Course
Koajiro Forest is located at the centre of Misaki Area. Our journey begins from Misakiguchi Railway Station on Keikyu Line. Just taking 5-minute ride of buses, you will arrive at Hikibashi Bus Stop, the gateway of the forest. This trail goes through the forest from beginning to end and finally reaches Seabornia-Iriguchi Bus stop. Then, you can go back to the station by bus.
The duration of the trail is about 70 to 100 minutes. Before starting your activity, you should remind that there is no toilet until the exit of the forest. Also, it is necessary to prepare equipment for trekking. For preventing insect bites, you should not wear light clothing such as short-sleeve t-shirts and shorts. Now, let’s get down to the immersive experience.
1. The Trail Begins With Lush Greens
This place is a valuable green area covering approximately 70 hectares and the only forest in the Kanto region where the entire ecosystem remains intact. Within this forest lies the source of a river about 1 kilometer long, where water flows through mountain wetlands and tidal flats. Eventually, the water reaches the sea.
As you step into Koajiro Forest, the trail unfolds with vibrant greenery surrounding you. Towering trees form a natural canopy, while the ground is adorned with lush greens. Walking through this path feels like entering a hidden world where the sounds of nature and creatures take centre stage. Especially, various butterflies are flying freely and actively in the forest.
2. Open Your Mind And Feel The Air
Walking deeper into the forest, the sounds of birds and winds surround you. Also, you will find some streams alongside the wooden paths. The peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by trees and the flow of water, helps clear your thoughts and reduce stress. I guess this is a miracle that such an untouched nature still exists in the Great Tokyo Area.
As you pass the deep green area, you can reach the open-air field with some spaces where you can pause and breathe deeply. These areas are perfect for taking a break and letting the fresh air refresh your mind. Whether sitting or standing, these moments offer a chance to feel more connected to nature and find calm in the simple beauty of the world around you.
3. Explore Unexplored Water
When you enter a branch of the course, you will see a hidden waterside of the forest. The water offers a glimpse into the silence of nature. The gentle sound of trickling water adds to the peaceful atmosphere, making these spots perfect for a quiet break. Also, here is a great place for taking photos. You will be fascinated by these beautiful combinations of blues and greens.
Then, the waterside is famous for ”The Apartments of Crabs.” Thanks to its great environment, the place is the ideal place for a variety of crabs. Amongst the crabs that lived, the Red Crab is the most popular species. The crab has a curious feature that living inside the forest, not in the water. Not only the strange behaviour, but the crab is known as one of the rare species in Japan. The crab loves rich and clean environments like the forest and has a crucial role in cleaning up the place.
4. Touched by Untouched Miracle
Koajiro Forest is the home to 2,000 species of living creatures. It is truly a miracle that we can find this natural paradise only 90 minutes from Tokyo. To preserve the forest for future generations, it is essential to respect the guidelines below. Of course, you are not allowed to do outdoor activities like camping inside.
・Pets are not allowed inside the forest.
・Stay on the designated path.
・Leave plants and animals in their natural habitat.
・Take your rubbish home with you; do not discard it in the forest.
Koajiro Forest provides an ideal escape for anyone wanting to recharge in nature. Its trails, open spaces, and hidden water spots create a peaceful experience that helps calm the mind and refresh the body. Whether you’re exploring the lush trails, taking in the fresh air, or resting by the water, the forest offers a perfect place to disconnect from the busyness of life. Why don’t you take part in this trail? The nature guides you to this untouched miracle.
| INFOMATION | |
|---|---|
| Address | Koajiro, Misakimachi, Miura, Kanagawa |
| Opening Hours | 7:00 – 17:00 |
| Closed | It doesn’t have any fixed days off ※Sometimes closed due to an irregular maintenance |
| Admission | Free |
| Parking | Not Available |
| Transportations | 5 minutes walk from Hikibashi Bus Stop (From Misakiguchi Sta.) 10 minutes walk from Seabornia-Iriguchi Bus Stop (To Misakiguchi Sta.) |
| References | LIVE JAPAN Feel SHONAN |
