A magical forest covered with 500 different types of moss
It is well known that Nagano Prefecture is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes and its high-quality *fuwa fuwa* snow. In winter, the Shirakoma Forest combines both! But honestly, no matter the season, the almost mystical atmosphere of this mossy forest is worth the trip.
Shirakoma Forest is a primary forest (or virgin forest), meaning it has a unique forest ecosystem that hasn’t been altered by human activities. This explains the presence of very ancient trees, millennia-old in this case, and a preserved biodiversity.
Due to its very old age and the humid climate, it is also the perfect place for moss proliferation. The Shirakoma Forest is home to no fewer than 500 types of moss (480 according to some sources, 485 according to others). The areas around the lake are divided into 10 forests, each with its own characteristics and types of moss.
Ancient trees and lush mosses blend together to create a magical setting. It feels almost like a Hayao Miyazaki film! One of the moss observation spots is even nicknamed “Mononoke Forest,” in reference to the animated film of the same name.
The site was designated in 2008 as the 11th “most beautiful moss forest” in Japan by the Bryological Society of Japan. Because yes, a moss forest can also be part of a natural heritage worth preserving, so watch where you step!
Shirakoma: The Legend of the White Colt
The lake is said to have gotten its name from an old legend about a young girl who disappeared into Shirakoma Pond with her white horse. Story goes…
Once upon a time, there was a wealthy man who lived with his (rather pretty) daughter near the Nakayama Pass. Kind-hearted, the man often offered hospitality to travelers passing through.
One day, he falls gravely ill. Devoted, his daughter watches over him day and night, but his health deteriorates rapidly. Sensing his end is near, the man advises his daughter to live a happy life. She cries bitterly. Suddenly, there are knocks at the door. The young girl opens it and comes face to face with a horse (or a foal, according to some sources) carrying a letter from a goddess offering to extend the father’s life.
To do this, the young girl must follow specific instructions: she must ride the white horse, find a place where yellow flowers grow, and bring her father there to pick them. But! If her wish is granted, she will no longer be able to return home and will have to continue helping other sick people.
She complies, settles her father in a house near where she found the miraculous yellow flowers, and continues her good deeds with the sick. However, one day she misses home and returns to see her father.
Everything goes well at first. But one fine morning, the white horse reappears at their doorstep. It then takes the girl onto its back. Upon reaching the summit of a mountain, it neighs and plunges into the lake with the girl still on its back.
Poof! The white horse and the young girl disappear. They were never seen again.
The pond has since been known as “White Horse Pond.” Nowadays, a legend persists: it is said that women who wash their faces in the lake will become as beautiful as the pretty young girl from the legend. Who knows?!
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