Drawn to the Remote Beauty of the North

Hokkaido has always held a special place in my heart, long before I ever set foot on its serene landscapes. My fascination with this remote region of Japan was primarily sparked by the words of Haruki Murakami. Through novels like "A Wild Sheep Chase" and others where he intricately weaves Hokkaido into the narrative, I found myself irresistibly drawn to its enigmatic charm.

Murakami's "A Wild Sheep Chase" introduces readers to the mystique of Hokkaido, with its sprawling landscapes and isolated beauty. The novel's protagonist embarks on a surreal journey, leading to an abandoned farm that Murakami enthusiasts often seek out in real life. This farm, while fictional, has become a pilgrimage site for fans captivated by the novel's profound sense of place and mystery.

Murakami paints Hokkaido as a land of silence, beauty, and contemplation. The quiet towns, vast fields, and the profound solitude described in his books created an image of Hokkaido that I yearned to experience. In some novels, Murakami makes Hokkaido feel like a Summer day in childhood, something that is both remote and intimately familiar.

Inspired by these vivid descriptions, my journey to Hokkaido felt like a reunion with a place I'd only visited in my imagination. The magical allure of Murakami's Hokkaido lived up to every expectation, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and literary significance. The lakes in Hokkaido blew my mind! I met beautiful people, saw places that left me in awe with Life & the World, and was surprised by magic everyday. I felt like I was living in a novel, or that life is the best fiction.

Towards the end of my Hokkaido time, after several friends pointed to Niseko, I felt compelled to go visit. It was one of those times when, out of nowhere, I found the perfect guesthouse, run by the nicest young couple, set in the most beautiful spot. The husband was an amazing chef, and made me a breakfast I’ll never forget. You know, those moments that last forever?… As we chatted away in the gorgeous dinning room, I looked out the window and saw Mount Yotei! I was immediately drawn to the mountain, and quickly ran up to my room, packed a few things, and hiked to the top! What a beautiful surprise that was!! I had a deep nature-connection day, was blessed with gorgeous views at the top, and on the way down met an amazing group of Japanese people who invited me for a barbecue and we sat around a fire telling stories under the stars. I felt totally blessed to be there.

If you're a fan of Haruki Murakami or simply seek the beauty of remote places, Hokkaido promises an enriching and magical experience. The serene landscapes and the subtle whispers of Murakami’s tales make it a destination that speaks to the soul. Please get in touch if you ever want my help organizing a trip to Hokkaido! I will be delighted to help you visit that blessed & mysterious land!