I wanted to start a new thread since there don't seem to be many (if any) existing threads dedicated to hiking in Japan. I can't be the only one out there that thinks tromping through the forest/countryside is loads of fun.

I'm looking for some advice on day-hikes near Tokyo or Kyoto (with preference for Kyoto). I will have a JR pass, but no car. Are there any hiking trails - within walking distance of a JR station - that are a reasonable distance (say, less than an hour commute) from the Westin Miyako Kyoto?

I also have a strange question that feels a little silly to ask. My husband is writing a novel that is set in Aokigahara forest. We had hoped to visit while in Japan, but it's not very easy to get to on public transportation. (Yes, we know what the forest is famous for, and no, we are not hoping to "stumble across" anything.) We would like to get a feel for the atmosphere of the forest - we have read that the trees are so thick you can barely see sunlight, and that it's very still and quiet (none of the normal animal or insect sounds you would expect). Are there other forests out there with a similar "atmosphere" that may be easier to get to?

Thanks in advance for any advice. Have heard that Japan has some great hiking, and am looking forward to finding out for myself.