Here, we are slightly inland, rather than right beside the lake. It gives off a homely, quiet inn vibe, perched on a hill overlooking the lake. The atmosphere is tranquil, not far from the lake, with no passing cars, allowing you to relish the peace. Welcoming many school groups and guests interested in hands-on activities, we leverage the forest environment to offer an inn that can be exclusively used by such groups. The allure of this season lies in capturing beautiful photos of the colored poison ivy.

The connection with the lake feels just right. For instance, birds like tits, woodpeckers, and turtle doves visit when we provide bird food. Well, the turtle doves are quite large, so when they arrive, the other birds fly away (laughs).

I often ponder the concept of "hydrophilicity." Lake Shirakaba is undoubtedly symbolic, but it was originally an artificial lake for agricultural water. However, now that it plays a crucial role in both tourism and agriculture, making it an essential lake, you cannot discuss it solely in terms of tourism. We are able to make our living from this region where the natural environment and industry coexist harmoniously. When you consider everything, including the mountains, plants, and seasons, it all comes back to water as its origin, meaning our inn also benefits from it. Therefore, we must value this "hydrophilic nature," and I always work with a sense of gratitude. That is what Lake Shirakaba means to me.

My favorite season is just before the rainy season when fresh greenery emerges. Larch trees start budding first, and as they proliferate, the colors of the withered fields gradually change. I love that time. We refer to the period from December to March as the winter season, but as it ends, we welcome summer. Just before heading into the hot summer, that season, a little beforehand, is when you feel the plants are most alive. It is a season of feeling life, and for that reason, I love spring.

While lodging reservations and sightseeing are becoming more convenient, I would like to keep in mind that there are people behind the screen, each leading their own lives and joys. I hope that we can become a community that values that.