What is “GotoForest!”?
GotoForest! is a nationwide initiative held on May 4 in Japan, where people walk in forests across different regions on the same day, spending time in nature and sharing a sense of well-being.
May 4 is “Greenery Day,” a national holiday in Japan dedicated to connecting with nature, expressing gratitude for its blessings, and nurturing a peaceful and fulfilled mind.
The Beginning
This event began in 2017.
It originated from a Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) event called “Thanks Greenery Day!” organized by the Future with Forest Association in a forest in Hachioji, Tokyo.
We started this initiative with the hope that even people who are not accustomed to spending time in forests could easily experience Shinrin-yoku in a more approachable way.
A Turning Point During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In 2020, due to the impact of COVID-19, it became difficult to hold in-person events.
Many forest guides and nature-based activity providers across Japan were no longer able to guide people in the forest.
Ironically, forests are open, well-ventilated spaces where people can spend time comfortably. In Japan, forests are also closely connected to everyday life, and people usually have easy access to nature without traveling far.
From a Local Event to a Nationwide Movement
Thus, we asked a simple question:
“Can we create opportunities for people to connect with nearby forests even during the COVID-19 pandemic?”
To encourage more people to visit and become familiar with forests, we reached out to forest activity practitioners and organizers across Japan and proposed holding events in local forests on the same day.
Many people resonated with this idea and voluntarily joined from forests in their own regions. As a result, the “GotoForest!” gathering grew into a nationwide initiative held on May 4, Japan’s Greenery Day.
In 2026, we hope to expand this meaningful initiative worldwide.
If this vision resonates with you, please join us. We would be delighted to spend time together in forests around the world on May 4.
Organized by: GotoForest! Organizing Team
Supervised by: Future with Forest Association
Track Record in Japan
2021: 31 locations / 374 participants
2022: 31 locations / 568 participants
2023: 24 locations / 501 participants
2024: 26 locations / 634 participants
2025: 23 locations / 377 participants
Participation in GotoForest! Initiative (International Participation Welcome)
Individuals, organizations, and businesses are welcome to join the GotoForest! initiative as local hosts.
Anyone who can safely organize a forest experience in their local natural environment may participate.
Basic Requirements for Participation:
- Safe guidance in a forest or natural setting
- An open and accessible event for everyone
- Experiencing the forest through the five senses
- Sharing appreciation for nature
- Proper safety management
- A spirit of community and co-creation
