Go Climb Something!!!
No matter where the journey takes you, do not forget your camera and climbing shoes.
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Life On The Move
Tea and Bouldering
In Japan if there is one thing that is very prevalent, that would be Tea. I live 15 minutes from a nationally famous tea area. The Sayama tea is know for the delicious combination of sweetness and bitterness enjoyed in every sip. Driving to these tea fields you find yourself in the middle of a modern city with convinies on every other corner and after two turn, agriculture for miles! I have driven through this area before, but until now I never had time to explore the area. Driving around the area I noticed that it is covered in plants of all species, some know to me and others not. I was interested right away.
We parked at a road side lot and just went for a walk in the middle of all of the fields. It was in the middle of the afternoon, but the temperature and light was very nice. There was an elderly couple out planting some cabbage and broccoli who did not mind at all that we wanted to take their photos. The art involved in their planting is one that would make all modern American farmers blush. The time and patience that is put into planting one seed at a time is tedious. Yet, seeing this was very insightful and another step towards better understanding the Japanese culture. We spent a few hours exploring this region and only scratched to surface. I am planning on going back when there is a large harvest to see what I can shoot. Of course, sampling the fresh tea is a good reason too.
The next day Gavin and I drove up to Mizugaki to help Jack with a guiding class. The weather was great 20C/68F and cloudy. The friction was great for summer bouldering. There were eight clients with most of those being v4/5 climbers. We took them to the Gold River Area. This is a fun area, still with many boulders to be cleaned and projects yet to see sends. The dozen known beautiful granite blocks here are perfect. Like the rest of the Mt Mizugaki, the Gold River area has something for everyone. The area is littered with fun, hard problems. Many of the developed problems are in the V4-6 range with many more to come soon. The V0 slabs are great for beginners, the large overhangs and steep faces boast small crimps with sloper top outs for a sweet and spicy finish. The GRA was a perfect match for this group. Everyone enjoyed themselves and noted that they would love to come back soon.
I was able to pull out the camera gear and pop off a few good shots. This all while Gavin was in good hands of course. I have to say, the Japanese ladies love that little guy.
Gavin and I had to leave at 3:30 but all things considering I was able to guide, shoot, and climb a bit. That, combined with no injuries, made for a successful day.
This week the weather is supposed to be clear and sunny. I am planning on going out to a couple of spots to boulder and shoot this week. But we will see what I am able to do with the guidebooks work, Gavin, and Star’s schedule. Hope to have another post soon.
Go Climb Something!!!!
