Hiking with the Yokohama Walk Association last Saturday
Tuesday, April 26th, 2005The day proved to be great, which added to my chagrin. I was praying for some rain, but the sun seemed to like spreading her rays today - laughing at me. I have been involved with other hiking activities before; but it was the idea of hiking from 9:30am to 3:30pm - a mere 6-hour trek - intimidated me. Nevertheless, I readied myself and went downstairs to meet the group. We left at 7:45am and started our hiking adventure with a short walk to the Seya Eki.
Well, I thought then that it would a be straight, no-rest, and continues walk. 
The hike:
The participants were dominated by middle aged individuals. According to Ito sensei, these people considered hiking as their sport. The number of elderly participants amazed me. I am aware that people really walk a lot here in Japan, but it never occured to me that walking could indeed become a sport. It is just a pretty sight how these individuals enjoy and relish every mile they conquer.
They actually walk faster - and in a steady pace at that - than any other 60-80 years old that I know.
The first miles were the most exhausting, maybe because our feet were still trying to get used to the activity. Nonetheless, the succeeding miles were easier. The hike was a joy itself; it is one way when you get in touch with Mother Nature despite our daily exploits. The flowers were beautiful and breathtaking. I can see tulips growing like daisies from my grandmother’s garden. The sakura trees are now covered with green rather than the soft pinkish white of the blooms. We passed by several stairs, trails, roads, creeks, bridges, cottages, ekis, and trees. We also checked out a temple and rested for a while. A picnic lunch semi-concluded our activity, though that was not the end of it.
The chat:
The chat with some of the participants was quite pleasant. There were group chats and some individuals. The "interview" showed that the respondents have similar reasons for hiking. Their primary reason is health. Hiking helps them to stay healthy through the exercise it provides. It is indeed for real that constant exercise keeps you sound and happy. The next reason that popped out during the chat was the joy that seeing the beautiful views bring. They said that the flowers are particularly beautiful at this time of year, and I can attest that it is really true.
As I have observed during the picnic-lunch, a bunch of individuals talked and ate together in a circle. They shared their food - enjoyment and pleasure are apparent in there faces; you need not ask to know that they are having a great time. One thing that they also take part in these activities because they meet people and new friends. It is fun meeting new friends, especially if you share the same joys in life like hiking and sightseeing.
Personally, I had a great time. The green and lush environment was a nice change from the everyday sight of buildings and automobiles. It was a time well-spent with Nature. It’s amazing to note how Japan preserved its beautiful and clean lush green habitat amidst the industrial and economic development. Despite the modernity of their lifestyle; they never forget to stop and smell the flowers.
-This is an essay I passed for my Japanese Affairs class… Thought I`d publish it for nothing`s sake.
