#2

Priceless Lessons from Nature, Adventure, and Hot Spring Steam Kazunori Tanaka
Professor, Kokugakuin University Hokkaido Junior College

As someone who spends time immersed in nature throughout the year, I rarely find moments to completely liberate my mind and simply embrace the moment.

One early autumn day, seeking a respite from the daily hustle and bustle, I ventured to the Taisetsuzan Mountain Range to recharge my spirit. Surrounded by the crisp, clear air of the canyon, I cast my tenkara fishing line into the mountain streams, hoping to catch the elusive Oshorokoma, a type of char native to Hokkaido. Enthralled by the joy of catching and releasing these beautiful fish, I found myself smiling, completely absorbed in the moment.
While wandering through the woods, I came across a cluster of natural honey mushrooms, one of nature’s many treasures. Simply observing mushrooms can be fascinating, and the combination of stream fishing and discovering these woodland treasures filled my heart with joy and excitement.

My stay was at the prestigious Hotel Taisetsu ONSEN & CANYON RESORT, a property renowned for its history and elegance. The highlight was my room at Wabo Yukihana, a haven of warmth adorned with fine wooden furnishings. From the private bath in my room, I enjoyed an uninterrupted view of the magnificent Sounkyo Gorge. Soaking in the steam of the panoramic bath, I felt my fatigue from the journey melt away. The warmth of the onsen seeped deep into my body and soul, gradually dissolving the pressures of everyday life.

Dinner at Kikyouan, the exclusive dining venue for Wabo Yukihana, was a feast for the senses. Local delicacies such as Hokkai sweet shrimp, horsehair crabs, and snow crabs were elegantly paired with Yume Pirika rice grown in Higashikawa Town.
As a sake enthusiast, I was particularly delighted by the pure junmai ginjo sake from Kamikawa Taisetsu Sake Brewery in Kamikawa Town. The harmony between the carefully prepared dishes and the sake created an unforgettable culinary experience, embodying the essence of travel. Even after dinner, I indulged in another session at the onsen and sauna, savoring the lingering excitement of fishing and discovering mushrooms in the forest. This luxurious time allowed me to reflect and savor the moment deeply.

The next morning, breakfast at Kikyouan once again exceeded expectations. The diverse array of dishes provided the perfect nourishment before venturing out for another day of exploring.

On my way home, I stumbled upon a grove in the national park and discovered wild kiwi berries, known as kokwa in Hokkaido. These ripe, sweet fruits burst gently in my mouth, leaving behind a refreshing sensation. Nearby, the wild hops released a fresh, green aroma, offering a rustic, slightly bitter aftertaste.
Moments like these remind me of the priceless value of nature's offerings and the importance of reconnecting with the wild instincts that urban life often suppresses.

Staying at a comfortable base like Hotel Taisetsu, while rediscovering the untamed spirit of nature, is more than a fleeting indulgence—it’s nourishment for the soul. Reflecting on this journey, I found myself contemplating the diverse seasonal beauty of the Taisetsuzan Mountain Range and the growing potential of adventure travel. The impressions left by such authentic encounters with nature are, indeed, priceless. I can’t help but eagerly anticipate what the next season and adventure will bring.