Vol.1

The Secret is out!!

New Australian Residents

Vol.2

Golfer's Dream

Okay

Vol.3

2008/2009 Season is on

Pirateman Opening

Mochi

Vol.4

Toboggan Contest

A Day in Rusutsu

Vol.5

Enjoying Snow in Rusutsu

Skidooing

Vol.6

So different but both in Rusutsu!

Vol.7

Sakuranbo Gari

Jubee Marsh

Vol.8

A feeling for old Japan

Shimizu Tofu

Vol.9

Goshyoimoya

A Walk after the Rain

Jubee Marsh

　I began my trip on a sunny brisk afternoon along route 230, passed by Rusutsu 230 and went to East Mountain. The gondola station was there with all the grooming machines lined up next to it. They looked pretty lonely there, waiting for their time in the winter, but also reminded me of terrific moments I had skiing last season. I continued my drive enjoying the view of Shiribetsu Dake and Mt. Sorioi. There were several beet fields there, which made me think it must be wonderful to drive your tractor while enjoying the terrific view. However, the farmers’ heads are probably busier with more day to day problems, especially with the summer being quite rainy and cold. But slowly moving tractors in the fields and Shiribetsu Dake created a very peaceful picture.

　I drove for a few more kilometers to the backside of Mt. Isola, enjoying the green of the trees and warmth of the friendly sun. I finally arrived at the path leading to Jubei Marsh, the goal of my trip today. The path went up steeply at the beginning but soon leveled off and became easier to walk. The walk was really pleasant accompanied by a live concert from the birds and the sun gilding leaves. Then I saw a spider web. The only word I can find to describe it is “State of the art”. Beautiful as the finest laces you can imagine the web was big, and there was one tiny spider making all this beauty. It’s a shame my camera couldn’t capture the masterpiece.

　Going on, carefully not to damage the web, I saw a spot of wild strawberries. My grandma used to say that wild strawberries are very delicate and don’t like being seen and surely picked by people, so they hide away. Grandma said you have to note the second one and think about the third when picking up the first. I treated myself to some delicious berries and reached the marsh in several minutes. The water was still and reflected the trees surrounding the marsh. I took a couple of photos and wanted to head back, but decided to walk around it in the last minute. How clever it was! In a minute or two I reached a spot you can see Lake Toya from. They cut bamboo grass in such a way that there’s a natural window through which you can see the lake. There’s an oak with crooked braches, which must sound like they interfere with the view. However they actually made Toya look even more beautiful. It’s like a diamond, which is beautiful by itself, but shines even better when in a fine frame.

　I left all my problems there (they probably drown in the marsh) and promised myself I’ll come back whenever I need a reset or an inspiration.