Spring Break Pt II

The blooming

Do you miss the stars and the clean countryside air? Are you lucky enough to have that already? I miss it, and nothing reminds you what’s lacking than a little taste of it.

I spent a few days with some friends in the sleepy towns of Okutama and Mitake, where the atmosphere is pure and there’s always a scenic, tree-crested hill in sight. Being out of the city was a real delight, and a nice change of pace from the relentless pace of Tokyo. Convenient, but relentless.

The first thing we did after arriving in the countryside was take a bus to Nippara Limestone Caves, the largest cave in the Kanto region. It’s a gorgeous, natural structure that was often used as a place of holy meditation for buddhists; several statues and a small shrine still rest along its paths.

The cool, damp air was a refreshing break from the powerful sun. After ducking through narrow corridors, the cave opened into a massive chamber lit with color-changing lights.

The caves' widest room is lit up with color-changing lights. It seems a perfect place for a cool meditation.

Following our hike, we stopped by a fruit vendor and a meat shop to make dinner at our lodge. Originally, our plan was to hike Mt. Kawanori, but given the intensity of the hike we changed plans and decided to spend the day walking alongside the massive Okutama Lake and through its gorge. In this lake I saw something in it I’d never seen before — a fish staircase. At one point, the water’s current is too powerful, and for fish to return upstream, a separate route for them is built. How kind. ^_^

The clear air and pure water of Okutama, and its wasabi plant mascot.

Early the next day, we returned to Tokyo, where the cherry blossoms had finally begun to bloom. Contrary to pop culture, most sakura have white leaves. Nevertheless, they're quite beautiful. As quickly as they arrive they’ll shed their flowers and go dormant for another 11 months. I’ve spent most of my week savoring their abundance.

Sakura are planted all over the place. It's easy to see why.

Soon, my final semester will begin. I’ve heard that the level four class, which I’ll be entering, is the most intense semester in the KCP program. I’ll be trying to balance my school life and my personal life, trying to seize my opportunities. Don’t forget to seize yours, as well.

愛を持って、

With Love,

gb

These letters are inspired by the Earwyrms playlist and newsletter. Read it here.