The forest, which surrounds Shirakomanoike lake and spreads across the northern Yatsugatake mountain range, is a popular spot for micro-plant enthusiasts. The Northern Yatsugatake Moss Association began organising moss viewing hikes in 2011, which attracted around 40 people over the year. "A beautiful natural landscape that is taken and compacted, that is the essence of Japanese gardens," said Chisao Shigemori, a prominent Japanese garden designer. The spiky stems resemble miniature cedar trees and the moss is very popular with Japanese garden designers. - The 'Moss King' -While moss is a purely aesthetic pleasure for some Japanese, for others it is also big business.

Source: Bangkok Post July 27, 2018 03:45 UTC