According to the Global Wellness Institute, forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese, research-based practice of immersing oneself in nature using all five senses to improve mental and physical health. Developed in the 1980s in Japan, it involves slow, mindful walking or sitting in forested areas to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost immunity. It is not exercise, but a therapeutic, low-impact connection with nature.

I don’t believe my son Will has studied this, but he naturally gravitated toward it because he’s very in tune with his physical body. Will dances every day to release his internal energy. Given the opportunity (and lack of disruptions), he notices his optimum release of energy at 45 minutes of continuous dance. Second to dancing is forest bathing.

*Will’s excited we are exploring one of many bamboo forests in Shiroi*

This was all Will’s idea. While I had noticed the beginning of some very thick forest areas while walking to our local grocery store (about 1.2 miles away), it was Will who suggested we go for a walk and explore the vast forest areas we’re next to in this neighborhood.

*The marker indicates a trail for adventure seekers in the area*

According to the Global Forest Watch, as of 2020, Shiroi City in Chiba, Japan, contained 190 hectares of natural forest, representing roughly 5% of its total land area. The city focus includes preserving these green areas, which are largely located within residential surroundings.

In other words, Will and I didn’t even scratch the surface with our 3 mile trek. What we did do is discover a hidden temple that’s unmarked and just appears as you’re walking through the woods. It felt very Legend of Zelda as we came across it.

*Secret temple in the middle of the woods*

This felt like the right spot to take a selfie.

*Taking a selfie in front of the hidden temple. Great find!*

Continuing on, we found this incredible vine that was thicker than my hand. It looked like it was strangling the tree, but the tree seemed to be doing okay despite the apparent death grip of the vine that went up as far as we could see. The trees were a blend of the familiar and the unique. Everything from cherry blossoms and Japanese maples (is that redundant in Japan?) to trees that looked like the bark was painted on. Totally smooth to the touch but black spots that appeared to be indents. There was even a thorn tree where the thorns were hidden until you accidentally grabbed it to steady yourself up or down a nearby hill. I only made that mistake the one time, as it was quite painful and unexpected at the tree trunk area.

I took a moment to acknowledge Will and how much I appreciate this walk with him. I loved the discovery we made with the hidden temple, but more than that I simply enjoyed this time walking through the forest with him. He may not know what forest bathing is, but his calm, wise demeanor demonstrates the full benefits he and I both receive from walking in the forest together. Father and son, explore the forests of Shiroi, Japan. What a gift!

Forest Bathing in Shiroi, Japan (April 8, 2026)

Griffins in Shiroi, Japan (April 7, 2026)