Come Away with Me

Firefly season

Last Friday, Tamami sensei and husband brought me firefly or hotaru watching along this river in the northern part of Kamigoto instead of our usual Friday night date of swimming. I am sure we all have our own ideas or images associated with fireflies though I'm not quite sure how many have actually seen a real one being born and bred in our little and modern island city. The only fireflies I've seen were the ones on TV and the other firefly stories I've ever heard were from cousins in Malaysia who went on a firefly viewing tour somewhere in the ulu marshes in Kuala Selangor. Now it was no easy feat as they had to take one of those small sampan boats rowed across apparently crocodile infested rivers (it's true!)just to catch some glimpses of the mysterious blinking lights.

Naturally I was more than happy to trade my weekly swim for a piece of the action. Moreover there wasn't any dangerous acts involved, just a leisurely stroll along the river after sunset. The drive to the river in the northern part of Kamigoto was most pleasant as we cruised along the winding mountain roads in the breezy evening listening to Kobukuro's soulful crooning. The sun was setting but there was still enough light to appreciate the beautiful scenery that surrounded us at every turn of the corner. It wasn't anything significant but I know evening rides like this with the Matsumuras, whether it is going to swim or view fireflies, is certainly one thing I will miss a lot when I am back.

We arrived at half past eight, just around the purported time when the number of fireflies will be at their greatest and thus most beautiful. Every year during this time, fireflies will make their special guest appearance signalling the arrival of summer for many Japanese. They live amongst bushes and trees in the proximity of quiet rivers and ponds and only shine in the dark for about 10 to 15 days. These short-lived and quiet insects have sinced captured the hearts of the Japanese people who will go through great lengths to enjoy their delicate green lights that eminate in the dark of those early summer nights.

As we strolled along the riverbank the sight of those buzzing green flicker was simply amazing. I wished I have a picture to show for it but I knew it was pointless to even attempt taking any in the dark. I can only take comfort in the fact that the beauty and surreal images of the fluttering fireflies of last Friday night have been converted (and store away thanks to this place) to memory.

posted by テレサ @ 2:24 PM