Chokai Blue Line A sweet detour in front of Mount Chokai

I drove up the Chokai Blue Line and parked my red convertible at Hokodate. I'd had my eyes on the road the whole way, so I was looking forward to getting out and taking in the mountain. A deep gorge opened up before me, with snow still clinging to Mount Chokai beyond it. It was so much bigger than I expected that I was speechless for a while.

I'd brought some candied figs to enjoy while taking a break and looking out at the mountain. I picked up the little tub and tried just one. I meant to savor the view, but the moment the sweetness filled my mouth, I wanted another.

After taking another, I noticed syrup on my fingertips. I stopped with a little 'Oh' and held my fingers up close to my face. I'd come to see the view, and there I was, studying my own fingers so intently. I couldn't help laughing.

I glanced around to see if anyone had noticed. As if it mattered—they'd only have seen me eating candied figs. I felt self-conscious and laughed, shifting the tub in my hands. It's hard to stop at one bite when there's something sweet in front of me.

This time, I finally looked up and took my time following the gorge into the distance. Just by moving my gaze from the nearby mountainside to the far ridge, I could feel the scale of the landscape without leaving my spot. I wanted to remember the whole moment, sticky fingertips and all, along with the view.

I put the tub away and looked at the mountain once more. I think I'll remember the taste of those candied figs whenever I think of my trip to see Mount Chokai and Naso Gorge. Before heading on to the next road, I cleaned my fingertips and went back to the car.