Kamiiso Torii at Oarai Isosaki Shrine At the winter sunrise, I found myself saying thank you before I could make a wish

When I reached the shore that morning, the sky beyond the torii gate was already brightening. I was still sleepy, but the moment I looked out at the horizon, I woke right up. I flexed my gloved fingers and waited, wondering what the sunrise would look like that day.

Waves crashed against the rocks with a roar, one after another. I'd pictured a quiet sunrise, but the sea right in front of me was in constant motion. I looked up at the sky, then at the waves, then back to the torii gate. All the while, the light slowly grew brighter.

The moment the sun appeared beyond the torii gate, I clasped my hands without thinking. I'd been wondering what to wish for on my way here, but all I could think was, “Thank you for letting me see this.” Suddenly, I was glad I'd come all this way on a cold morning.

My breath turned white as I exhaled, then quickly faded. I realised my shoulders were tense and let them drop a little. I picked up my phone to take a photo, but I wanted to stay right there and keep watching, so I lowered it again.

I told my friend I'd send her proof I'd managed to get up early. The sunrise photo was far better proof of my early start than a clock could ever be. Looking back at the shot of the torii gate and sunrise, I laughed to myself, relieved I hadn't slept in.

After watching the sea at sunrise, I want to explore the shrine grounds, too. I'll pay my respects with that same feeling I had when I clasped my hands together by the torii. If I can start a winter's day like this, I think I'll be in a good mood all the way home.