Sitting on the veranda, looking over the garden, we hear the sounds of the sea drifting on the wind from afar. The scent of wet vegetation and wet soil, freshly moistened by the rain that ceased only a short time ago, permeates the air. Rain falling on the hills trickles into streams and runs down to the ocean, where it evaporates to form clouds that bring new rain.

Each of these very ordinary steps is part of a natural cycle that’s too easily forgotten. Living on this hill just 10 minutes’ walk from the sea, Chieko Hirota experiences life with all her senses. Her decision to live in Hayama was triggered by a scene she witnessed during a visit 25 years ago.

Petal prayers: Hirota hangs a hydrangea talisman from a beam near a doorway in her home. She does this every year during the rainy season to express her prayers for the good health of her family. | SHOGO OIZUMI
Petal prayers: Hirota hangs a hydrangea talisman from a beam near a doorway in her home. She does this every year during the rainy season to express her prayers for the good health of her family. | SHOGO OIZUMI