That's the woods when you're trying to find Black Mage Village, correct?

Okay, the trick is to examine the signpost when you enter. It will show you two directions: "where there are owls" and "where there are no owls". Choose the path that leads to "where there are no owls". You'll see one of the owls on the branches fly away. Everytime you reappear, go read the sign, and head in the direction to "where there are no owls".

After a few times, you'll see the black mage step in the area, and then leave. Follow him. You'll get to Black Mage Village.