Chichibugahama Beach Sandals in hand, facing a mirror of water

I arrived at Chichibugahama Beach at dusk, planning to look out at the sea first. Then I noticed clouds reflected in a tide pool on the sand and stopped in my tracks. I looked up at the sky, down at the water, then back up again. It was strange every time: the same clouds, one above me and one below.

I slipped off my sandals, gathered them in one hand, and walked across the sand beside the tide pool. When I realized I could see myself in the water too, I wanted to step into the scene, not just look at it. Every time I moved one foot, my reflection moved with me. Of course it moved when I moved—but it was still so much fun.

I shifted my weight onto one leg and gently spread my arms. With my sandals still hanging from one hand, I wasn't exactly striking a glamorous pose. When I saw my reflection, I looked like the sort of person who was so happy to be traveling she couldn't stand still. Then I realized: that was exactly how I felt. I burst out laughing.

Since I was there, I thought I might as well try standing a little more gracefully. I straightened my back, but as soon as I leaned over to look at the water, a smile crept across my face. I was trying to look composed enough for the beautiful scenery, but when you're having fun, maybe it's fine to let it show. I felt the tension leave my shoulders.

After a while, I wanted to watch the sky more than pose. The sun sank beyond the sea, its light reflected in the tide pools. I'd been looking for my reflection; now I took in the water as part of the view. The sky above, the sky below, and me standing between them—I loved every minute of it.

When I slipped my sandals back on to leave, I felt a little more wistful than when I'd taken them off. When I think of Chichibugahama Beach, I want to remember more than the beautiful sunset. I want to remember myself laughing with my arms out, too. Seeing how happy even my reflection looked became the best souvenir I took home that day.