Psychological effects of walking at Meiji Jingu and Yoyogi Park green spaces

Abstract

Green areas within shrines and temple forests exhibit distinct characteristics compared to general parks, particularly in terms of planting, and may therefore have different psychological effects on users. While the stress-reducing effects of green spaces in public parks are well researched, those within urban shrines and temples require further study. In this study, we measured psychological states (POMS) and impressions (SD method) of 12 subjects to assess the effects of walking in green spaces, at Meiji Jingu and Yoyogi Park in Tokyo. We found that walking in shrine green spaces reduced "Fatigue" and "Confusion" while increasing positive emotions compared to walking in a park, thus reducing stress. Additionally, using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Y-2, we classified participants by trait anxiety levels and compared POMS results before and after walking in green spaces. The findings revealed psychological improvement in both Low-Anxiety and High-Anxiety groups within shrine green spaces, indicating that these areas benefit mental health regardless of anxiety traits. This result suggests that shrine green spaces are valuable for stress care.