Hapuna Beach

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Sayonara Japan

Living in Japan for almost five years has gifted me with experiences that, with my imminent departure, leave me with a growing sense of nostalgia now. There is much that I will miss:

(1)  Living by the sea.  For almost as long as I can remember, I have wanted to live by the sea.  In Japan, I have lived by the sea...even if my imagined conception of the experience never quite looked like the reality of my doing so while here in Japan.  I have loved my easy access to the sea and the chance to watch her in all seasons, lit and shaded, mellow and turbulent.  I will miss the scent of salt-tang in the atmosphere, the lazy lap of low tide, the thundering rumble of  stormy surf on the beach or against the seawall, and the squeak, whisper, and moan of the lines stretched and released between boats and their moorings.


Ashina Beach, the one closest to my house


Ashina fishing marina, looking southeast just before sunset

Ashina fishing marina, looking northwest toward Mt. Fuji (hidden in clouds) early in the morning


Sajima Bay, just south of Ashina

Fishing boats at Sajima Bay

Looking out toward Sajima Bay through an open area in the row of fishermen shacks

Another space between the fishermen shacks on Sajima Bay

Between Ashina and Sajima Bay

Akiya Beach, the next beach north from Ashina

Akiya Beach at sunset, looking northwest toward Mt Fuji (concealed in clouds and haze)

4 comments:

diane said...

There's only one thing you liked about Japan.

Evelyn said...

I have a whole list pending the official end of school and the time to actually post. (As per my usual mode of operation, I am scrambling to accomplish all the designated tasks for closure of a school year.)

Jennell said...

Nice job! I would probably move down fruit and move up Pepper Lunch. :) I would also add something about the kindness of the Japanese to dumb gaijin and the feeling of being in the minority.

Jennell said...

Nice job! I would probably move down fruit and move up Pepper Lunch. :) I would also add something about the kindness of the Japanese to dumb gaijin and the feeling of being in the minority.