“Sand dunes.” This song depicts the scene of a Japan Sea beach on the verge of harsh winter, with rough waves approaching.

As dusk sets in, the voices of children bidding “goodbye” and “see you tomorrow” overlap with the chirping of sparrows.

The poet KITAHARA Hakushu once said,

“I watch sparrows. Always watching. Not just watching, but always being with sparrows, flying and chirping along with them.”

Visible beyond the sea is Sado (or Sado Island), viewed from Yoriihama in Niigata Prefecture, the setting of this song.

Sado, once prosperous with gold and silver mines, like the juniper plains of Silverberry field, a famous spot in Niigata Town as a sandy coast during the Edo period, gradually faded into obscurity with the passage of time. Perhaps this song, too, might be unknown to the youth of modern-day Japan.

According to one prevalent theory, the rich and fascinating history of skiing in Japan can be traced back to the year 1895, which is approximately 130 years ago. It is said that a soldier named Toshitane Matsukawa, who served in the Japanese army, traveled to Scandinavia and was captivated by the local culture and the winter sports practiced there. Upon his return to Japan, he brought back with him a pair of skis, which marked the very beginning of skiing as a recreational activity in the country. This moment is often seen as a pivotal point in the introduction of skiing to Japan, laying the groundwork for what would become a beloved winter pastime.

長岡外史 – 投稿者自身による著作物, CC 表示-継承 3.0, リンクによる

About 75% of Japan’s land area is covered by mountains and hilly terrain.

Since that historic moment, the number of skiers in Japan has gradually but steadily increased over the years. The country’s diverse and mountainous terrain, coupled with its generous snowfall, has made skiing an appealing and accessible pastime for many. As more people discovered the joy of gliding down snowy slopes, ski resorts began to pop up across the nation, catering to both beginners and seasoned skiers alike. This growth in popularity has transformed skiing from a niche activity into a mainstream sport, enjoyed by families, friends, and individuals seeking adventure during the winter months.

The peak of skiing’s popularity in Japan occurred during the bubble economy of the 1980s. During this vibrant period, the number of skiers reached its highest level, leading to a surge in demand for ski resorts. Popular ski destinations experienced overwhelming crowds, with many skiers waiting in long lines for up to two hours just to access the lifts. This frenzy not only reflected the enthusiasm for skiing but also the economic prosperity of the time, where leisure activities were highly valued. The atmosphere at these ski resorts was electric, filled with laughter, excitement, and the joy of winter sports, making it a memorable era for skiing enthusiasts.

Many ski resorts in Japan are not just about skiing; they also offer a unique blend of winter sports and relaxation. A significant number of these resorts feature hot spring facilities, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate after a long day on the slopes. The experience of soaking in a steaming hot spring while surrounded by the beautiful snowy landscape is an integral part of the Japanese winter experience. After skiing, many people look forward to warming up in the hot springs, and some even venture out to enjoy the vibrant nightlife at nearby hot spring resorts. During these evenings, visitors can savor a variety of local delicacies that reflect the unique culinary traditions of each region, often accompanied by a glass of fine sake (Japanese rice wine). This combination of skiing, hot springs, and regional cuisine creates a harmonious winter retreat that attracts visitors from all over the country.

Japan is home to numerous ski resorts, particularly in regions known for their exceptional winter conditions. Hokkaido and Nagano Prefecture, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, are particularly famous for their world-class skiing facilities. These areas, along with the Tohoku and Jo-shinetsu regions, are bustling with activity during the winter months. Ski enthusiasts flock to these resorts to enjoy the pristine snow and well-maintained slopes. The atmosphere is lively, with families and friends coming together to create unforgettable memories on the slopes, making Japan a premier destination for winter sports lovers.

“Haru yo koi” is a children’s song that depicts a little girl named Mii-chan eagerly awaiting the end of the snowbound winter and longing to play outside. Mii-chan is believed to be the model for this song, the daughter of the lyricist SOUMA_Gyofuu, who was just two years old when the song was released in 1923. Gyofuu, the father, never spoke about it, but according to the mother, he once showed them the “tiny, tiny red straw sandals that were the first gift Mii-chan ever received.”

After attending Waseda University in Tokyo and working as a university lecturer while engaging in literary activities, Gyofuu returned to his hometown of Itoigawa City in Niigata Prefecture in his mid-thirties. From then on, alongside his creative pursuits, he also delved into the study of Ryoukan, a local monk and poet. Ryoukan was known for his love for children, and his famous anecdote of playing with them until sunset. “Haru yo koi” reflects Gyofuu’s unique perspective and empathy towards Ryoukan.

By Yoshio Kohara, CC BY 3.0, Link

Although Itoigawa City, situated along the Sea of Japan, rarely experiences an average temperature below freezing in February, Niigata Prefecture is renowned as one of the world’s leading snowfall areas. The song beautifully captures the emotions of children eagerly anticipating the arrival of spring, even in this snowy region.