Over the past decade, forest bathing (or Shinrin-yoku), a practice originating in Japan in 1982 to improve people’s psycho-physical well-being, has gained increasing popularity across various regions of Italy; alongside this diffusion, national scientific interest in its physical and psychological benefits has grown. However, a knowledge gap persists in the literature regarding the ecological characteristics of suitable sites.

Limited international studies have shown that both site-specific features (e.g., accessibility, slope, terrain characteristics) and forest stand variables (e.g., species composition, age, structural diversity, presence of deadwood and underbrush) play a crucial role in delivering beneficial effects. Ideal environments include mature broadleaf forests (e.g., high-forest beech stands) or mixed forests over 60–70 years old, with irregular structure and diverse vertical and horizontal stratification.

Based on these considerations, this study applied Q-methodology to explore stakeholder perceptions and preferences concerning environmental and functional requirements of forest bathing sites. A total of 34 Italian stakeholders—including forest bathers, academic experts, forest managers, and medical professionals—were involved to identify their perspectives and priorities related to ecological, economic, and social aspects of the practice in Italy.

The analysis revealed four main viewpoints: (1) a medically and scientifically focused view emphasizing psycho-physical health; (2) a perspective valuing managed forest environment; (3) a nature-centered vision emphasizing ecological integrity; and (4) a socio-economic outlook highlighting the practice’s broader benefits.

Despite differences, a shared emphasis emerged on the importance of site accessibility, proximity to existing trails, and the tangible physical benefits. Moreover, user preferences sometimes diverged from scientific recommendations, reinforcing the need to integrate perceptual and experiential dimensions into site planning.

In particular, less-managed forest environments—often favored by users—can offer an opportunity to promote and enhance other ecosystem services, such as biodiversity conservation and the maintenance of structural complexity in forest stands.