Crocuses, the "flowers that herald spring," blooming in the garden.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

As the snow melts in Hokkaido, a tiny life quietly, yet powerfully, begins to sprout in a quiet corner of the garden.

The crocus, also known as spring saffron, is a "spring-announcing flower" that signals the end of the long, harsh winter earlier than any other flower.

A flower with a mysterious charm, perfectly described by the mystical phrase, "a messenger that brings light back from darkness!"

The vibrant colors of crocuses—white, purple, and white with purple stripes—light up the still-cold earth after the lingering snow.

Crocuses bloom in the sunlight and quietly close their petals at night. Their cycle of sleep and awakening, gradually growing larger with the spring sunshine, is remarkably similar to that of a human being.

"We meet again this year!"

Every year around this time, I can't help but want to say those words to this beloved creature. The joy of having met it spreads gently from deep within my heart.

Spring in Hokkaido doesn't arrive in a spectacular way; it comes quietly. But within that "quietness" lies a deep respect for life and the joy of reunion.

The crocuses blooming in the gardens of Hokuryu Town are quietly calling for spring today as well.

◇ noboru & ikuko