Explore Shinkirō Road The spring horizon and firefly squid

On a sunny mid-April morning, I followed the coast to Umi-no-Eki Shinkirō. I parked and stepped out into the plaza; Toyama Bay stretched out right in front of me. I unzipped my mint windbreaker and walked toward the water.

The sea stretched all the way to the horizon beyond the low seawall. I let my eyes follow the line where it met the sky, slowing my pace a little. I like being able to get out of the car and spend a while listening to the waves.

Today, I brought along some firefly squid dressed in miso-vinegar sauce, which I’d prepared before setting out. I lifted one from the little bowl with my chopsticks; it looked so plump. It was one of the dishes I’d been looking forward to trying on a spring trip to Toyama.

I coated one in the miso-vinegar sauce and took a bite. The sauce’s tang came first, followed by the firefly squid’s rich umami. I reached for another before I knew it. I’d come for the sea, but for a while I couldn’t take my eyes off the bowl. I’m glad I’d brought along something delicious to enjoy, too.

I set my chopsticks down for a moment and looked toward the horizon. This is where mirages appear, making distant scenery seem to stretch or turn upside down. Thinking of the name “Shinkirō Road” makes me want to keep gazing out to sea.

After packing away the little bowl, I decided to take another short walk around the plaza. I’d enjoyed a little taste of spring, and now I could take in the sound of the waves. I’d like to make room on a drive along the Uozu coast for little stops like this, where I can get out and walk.