POLICY WIRE FACT CHECK: Does photo show experimental circular forest in Japan?

The Claim

A viral aerial photograph of trees arranged in concentric circles has recently resurfaced online, sparking widespread curiosity and debate about its origin. The image, which circulated prominently on social media platforms such as Reddit, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and X in 2026, was accompanied by claims that it depicted an experimental forestry project in Japan. One particularly popular post on Reddit, archived and widely shared, stated: "In 1973 Japan planted trees in concentric circles as part of an experiment in forestry spacing. This is what they look like today from above."

The photograph, which had previously appeared in various online spaces since at least December 2018, drew attention for its unusual geometric pattern. Users speculated that the arrangement was either a natural phenomenon or a mysterious human intervention. Some even suggested it might be a secret military installation or an ancient cultural site. The image’s sudden resurgence in 2026 led to renewed public interest, with many seeking to verify the authenticity of the claim and its historical context.

The Details & Investigation

Upon thorough examination, the viral photograph was confirmed to be genuine and not a product of digital manipulation or fabrication. The image, first published by Japanese news outlet Sankei News in 2018, depicted a section of a national forest near Nichinan City in Miyazaki Prefecture on the island of Kyushu. According to the Miyazaki Southern Forest Management Office, the trees were arranged in concentric circles as part of a long-term forestry experiment initiated in fiscal year 1973.

The experiment aimed to study the effects of different planting densities on tree growth and wood quality. Specifically, researchers planted Japanese cedar (Obi-sugi) in two groups of concentric circles, with varying distances between individual trees to simulate different density scenarios. This created the distinctive circular patterns visible from above. The site, often referred to as the "mystery circles" due to its enigmatic appearance, was officially documented by the Forestry Agency and later featured in reports from the Associated Press and other media outlets.

Historical records confirm that the experiment was established in March 1974, with seedlings planted in the designated plots. Over time, the trees grew into the distinct circular formations seen in the viral photograph. A 2011 study published in the *Journal of the Japanese Forest Society* analyzed the results of the experiment, concluding that planting densities of around 2,000 to 2,800 trees per hectare were most effective for low-cost forestry. A final report from the experiment, completed in fiscal year 2023, further supported this conclusion, suggesting that planting densities of 1,500 trees per hectare or fewer could yield optimal financial returns and afforestation efficiency.

The claim surrounding the photograph does not constitute disinformation, as there is no evidence of deliberate deception or coordinated manipulation. Instead, it appears to be a case of misinformation—specifically, a misunderstanding or misattribution of the image’s origin. While the original claim about the 1973 experiment is accurate, some online posts incorrectly attributed the image to more recent years or exaggerated its significance. Additionally, the image had been circulating for years before its 2026 resurgence, leading to confusion about its timeline and relevance.

The Verdict

The viral claim that the photograph shows an experimental circular forest in Japan is TRUE. The image is authentic and represents a legitimate forestry experiment conducted in Japan since 1973. The concentric tree arrangements were deliberately created to study the impact of planting density on tree growth and wood quality, and the experiment was well-documented by the Miyazaki Southern Forest Management Office and other official sources.

While the claim itself is factually accurate, some online narratives surrounding the image may have contributed to public confusion. These included incorrect dates, exaggerated descriptions of the experiment’s purpose, and speculative interpretations of the forest’s appearance. However, these do not constitute intentional disinformation, as the core factual assertion about the experimental nature of the forest is fully supported by verified evidence, official records, and historical documentation.

Counter-misinformation & disinformation investigation conducted by PolicyWire Editorial Desk (PW).