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My first encounter with Hokkaido feels like a love letter, with each word and sentence warming the heart. From Otaru to Asahikawa, from Sapporo to Furano, these enchanting cities turn Hokkaido into our land of romance.
10 Love Letters to Hokkaido (9)
-Daisetsuzan National Park
Dear H，
Situated in the Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Hokkaido. Riding the cable car and the double chairlift to ascend the mountain, I now find myself at the majestic entrance of the gorge, taking in the breathtaking views of the mountain ranges. The mountains appear like layers of clouds, gradually diffusing into various beautiful shapes. I gaze in awe, feeling as though I’ve been transported to another world.
Sounkyo is also known for its hot springs, where the mineral-rich water flows up from the depths of the earth, nourishing every inch of this land. It’s no wonder you once told me that soaking in hot springs helps wash away your weariness and worries. At this moment, I can feel the tiny bubbles floating in the hot water, soothing my bare skin and my naked soul. It’s an indescribable sense of peace and tranquillity.
10 Love Letters to Hokkaido (10)
-Daisetsuzan National Park
Dear H，
While climbing the majestic Kurodake (Black Mountain) in Sounkyo, I encountered a varied assembly of fellow mountaineers. Some were descending from the summit, their faces marked with exhaustion, sweat streaming down their backs. Others were gearing up for the ascent, with sheer determination.
Approaching from the opposite direction was an elderly couple, slowly making their way down the mountain. The husband, leading the way, unfortunately lost his balance and fell, injuring his forehead. Onlookers grew anxious, but the couple assured us it was nothing serious. The wife helped her husband to his feet, offered him some water, and with smiles, they said they would take a short rest before continuing their descent.
Further along the trail, I observed a young couple who seemed to be college students. Both were equipped with hiking poles, and the young man led the way while the young woman followed. Upon reaching a section with large rocks and a steep incline, the man turned around, extended his hand, and helped the shorter woman to climb up.
Every mountain is a test, a challenge that refines the trust between lovers. Without trust, even if two people are physically close, they may remain separated by a great distance from each other. I’ve come to understand the reason many couples choose to climb the mountains together. It’s the simple fact that true love does not exist in gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.
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