Dark tourism
1. According to the video...
a.Dark tourism is generally considered unethical.
b.Most dark tourist destinations are related to war events.
c.Not all dark tourists are just curious about tragedy and disaster.
2. Why has Aokigahara Forest become a dark tourist destination?
a.Because of the people who have made tragic decisions there.
b.Because it's said to be haunted.
c.Because it's a silent eery place.
3. Why are there signs in the forest?
a.Because it's very dense, and it's easy to get lost.
b.To indicate how to get help.
c.To prevent people from ending their lives.
4. According to the video, which of the following is true about Pripyat?
a.Many people were injured by the explosion.
b.The Ferris wheel never opened to the public.
c.Children were attending school when the accident happened.
5. Why does the video mention the forest near Pripyat?
a.Because all its trees suddenly turned red.
b.Because it helps explain the impact of the tragedy.
c.Because the levels of radiation are still very high.
6. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a use for the Cu Chi Tunnels?
a.Repelling American attacks.
b.Accommodating soldiers.
c.Carrying provisions.
Transcription
When people think of tourism, they often imagine themselves sightseeing, shopping for souvenirs, and trying some local
cuisine. However, in recent years, there's been a growing trend in a very different kind of tourism: dark tourism. Unlike
traditional travelers, dark tourists are drawn to destinations associated with tragedy, disaster, or historical conflict. They
visit places like former battlefields, memorials, or abandoned sites to satisfy their morbid curiosity or for a deeper
understanding of human history and the impact of these events. While some find it unsettling, others see it as a way to
learn about and reflect on the past. This type of travel has sparked many discussions about its purpose and ethics,
making it one of the most intriguing trends in the tourism industry today. Here are three popular dark tourism
destinations around the world, each offering unique perspectives on history, tragedy, and human resilience.
Aokigahara Forest, often called the 'Suicide Forest,' lies at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan. Known for its eerie silence,
created by the density of its trees and the natural soundproofing of its volcanic soil, this forest has tragically gained fame
as a place where many individuals have chosen to end their lives. Because of its haunting reputation, Aokigahara has
become a dark tourism destination, attracting visitors intrigued by its tragic history and unique atmosphere. In recent
years, guided tours have been introduced, not only to satisfy curiosity but also to educate people about mental health
challenges and the cultural significance of the site in Japan. Signs throughout the forest encourage individuals in distress
to seek help, making Aokigahara both a place of reflection and a reminder of the importance of mental well-being.
Pripyat, Ukraine, is a ghost town frozen in time since the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986. Once home to nearly
50,000 people, this city was evacuated in just hours following the catastrophic explosion at the nearby Chernobyl
Nuclear Power Plant, which released radioactive material across Europe. Today, Pripyat stands as a haunting reminder of
the disaster's impact, with abandoned schools, homes, and even an amusement park left just as they were on that
fateful day. Notably, the amusement park's Ferris wheel was scheduled to open just days after the disaster, and now
stands as one of the site's most iconic symbols of abandonment. In addition, the city's red forest—a woodland area
nearby—absorbed such high levels of radiation that its trees turned red and have since died off. Now a popular dark
tourism destination, Pripyat attracts visitors interested in witnessing the aftermath of one of history's worst nuclear
accidents. Guided tours allow people to explore this chilling site while learning about the event's history, the human
cost, and ongoing environmental effects, making Pripyat a place of fascination and solemn reflection.
The Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam are an extensive underground network that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War.
Located near Ho Chi Minh City, these tunnels, which stretched over 250 kilometers, were used by the Viet Cong as hiding
spots, supply routes, and living quarters to evade American forces and stage surprise attacks. Malnutrition, disease, and
lack of sunlight were common hardships for those living within the tunnels, but the network allowed the Viet Cong to
launch surprise attacks on American forces and disappear almost instantly. Today, the Cu Chi Tunnels have become a
popular dark tourism destination, where visitors can walk through portions of the narrow tunnels and learn about the
harsh conditions faced by soldiers. The site provides insight into the complex and challenging aspects of guerrilla
warfare, making it both a compelling historical site and a testament to human endurance.
