Abstract
In order to design comfortable spaces for "Shinrin-yoku" (taking in the atmosphere of the forest), it is important to investigate the physiological and psychological effects of walking in various landscapes. In this study we examined and analyzed physiological and psychological effects and user impressions of landscapes using Profile of Mood States, salivary amylase activity, and the Semantic Differential Method. The study areas were broad-leaved forests, coniferous forests, rice fields, seashores, urban parks and urban areas. As a result, we found that users became more active in bright and open spaces and relaxed in sacred and natural spaces. Although differences were not significant, salivary amylase activity in the present study decreased in the bright forests, rice fields and seashores, but increased in the dark forests, suggesting that dark forests induced stress.
