The Different Types of Recreation Forests in Kanto

As “Forest and Lake Appreciation Week” comes to a close, I wanted to take another look at all things forest and lake. While reading various articles I was genuinely impressed to learn how Japan organizes its forests into distinct categories, each with its own purpose and style of stewardship. 

These categories aren’t nationwide in one uniform block; each regional bloc (地方) has its own forest management office that oversees the landscapes in its area. For example, there is the Kanto Regional Forest Office which manages the forests across the Kanto Plain. Under its stewardship, "Recreation Forests" are categorized into six different types:

1. Natural Recreation Forests (19 sites) offer sweeping scenery and spaces for rest and wellness.
2. Natural Observation and Education Forests (28 sites) focus on learning about birds, plants and seasonal changes. 
3. Forest Sports Forests (12 sites) blend trees with active fun such as treetop athletics.
4. Outdoor Sports areas (64 sites) provide wide-open nature for hiking, trail-running and refreshing movement.
5. Scenic Forests (24 sites) frame historic viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.
6. Scenic Exploration Forests (21 sites) showcase dramatic terrain shaped by mountains, lakes and valleys. 

Together, they form a network of spaces where people can meet, breathe and explore nature.