When I step out of the car, the leaves sound closer A short spring walk among the trees at Satsukidai

One spring afternoon, I left Ikeda and turned onto Satsukiyama Driveway. I steered through the curves, watching the road as I drove among the trees. This wasn’t a day for going far; I’d come up into the hills just to walk for a little while. When I reached Satsukidai’s car park, the leaves right beside me were stirring in the breeze.

I switched off the engine, got out and pulled on my pink cardigan. I had on a white top, pale shorts and sneakers. Gravel crunched softly underfoot, and the car’s forward motion gave way to the steady rhythm of my steps. Before closing the door, I took one more look at the trees.

There’s a low fence and a stand of trees around the car park, so I could feel the mountain air even before setting off for a walk. Once I left the car and stepped onto the woodland path, I could hear the branches brushing against one another more clearly. Satsukiyama has several walking routes, but today it felt just right to wander and see which patch of shade I liked best.

I followed the path and stopped where I could see the sky between the trees. Looking at the delicate new leaves and the shadows lingering beside the trunks, I realized flowers aren’t the only way to tell it’s spring. I’d driven somewhere close by, walked just a little, and somehow the day felt different from an afternoon in town.

Back at the car park, I turned to look toward the path I’d walked. I’d like to make time for a longer walk in the hills another day, but this short stroll felt just right for today. For an Ikeda souvenir, I have my eye on Ikeda’s 里炭 monaka. You put the wafer shells and filling together yourself. I’d love to assemble it at home and eat it while remembering this afternoon in the hills.