For several years now, Hokkaido has no longer been a summer retreat.
Days over 30 degrees Celsius in August are now common. In places like Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Furano, it’s not unusual for temperatures to hit 35 degrees. However, the dry air makes the heat feel slightly more tolerable.
Thinking about how in just three months I’ll be bundling up in a coat, I decided to savor these blazing summer days a little longer.
The day I took these photos, it was around 30 degrees. It was hot, but the sea breeze made a short walk refreshing.
Walking My Own Path
When what society values differs from what I truly hold dear, I sometimes feel a gap that’s hard to bridge. This is especially true in the world of music, where technical precision, flashiness, and conformity often take center stage, leaving the deeper essence unnoticed.
There was a time when I walked alongside colleagues, rivals, and mentors, all striving for success in music. Over time, I began to notice a disconnect between the music I wanted to create and the music the world seemed to demand.
“Everyone is different, and that’s natural.” I know this, yet I sometimes catch myself compromising or being swayed by others’ opinions. It’s moments like these that remind me of how fragile my resolve can be.
What I truly value is the essence of music—its ability to evoke emotions buried deep within. Nostalgia for a distant scene, a fleeting sense of kindness, regret, or even anger—those raw, human feelings are what I want to express.
I’ve come to realize that staying true to what I value and connecting with those who understand its worth is far more rewarding than chasing broad appeal. It’s not about conforming but about finding strength in walking my own path.
This applies not just to music but also to photography and writing. They all form parts of my identity, helping me express my worldview in different ways.
Staying true to myself isn’t always easy. It can feel isolating at times. But finding something truly meaningful and nurturing it—this, I believe, is what it means to live authentically. I look forward to uncovering more discoveries and connections along the way.
Reflecting on Simple Moments
After my walk, I stopped by a café for a break. I was craving cake, but there wasn’t any that day. Still, the coffee tasted much better than the kind I brew at home.
I’m not well-versed in audio equipment, but the music in the café was crystal clear, with each instrument sounding distinct. It was my kind of sound.
Later, I wandered around the red-brick warehouse district, admiring the blend of Japanese and Western architecture from the Meiji era. Hakodate doesn’t have too many overcrowded spots, so even dining out rarely involves long waits. It’s a comfortable place to explore.
This was one of those days where I enjoyed the fleeting summer while reflecting on various thoughts.
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