The girl and the crane
Walking a short distance from my house you will find yourself walking alongside a small channel. Saga city sits just 2 meters above sea level and on reclaimed land from the sea. The highest point in Saga is Mount Kyoga, which is 1076 meters above sea level and slightly shorter than Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. The mountains that circle Saga City make for some scenic images. Because of this, a small quirk of Saga City is that multiple channels are running throughout the whole city. I find these to be nice features that can provide some relaxing scenery among the bustle of the city.
The one near my home is nice as it runs parallel to a graveyard so it’s very peaceful despite its proximity to a main road. It adds a little charm and calm to my walks. But there is something even cuter that can be found here if I am lucky. Often on this channel a white crane can be found. I have given it the nickname Fuwa Fuwa (Fluffy Fluffy in English). Sometimes the crane is a heron, both seemingly fishing here for food.
Cranes in Japan are national treasures they are seen as the bird of happiness; they are also said to live 1000 years so are often linked to longevity. All of this considered one could say seeing Fuwa Fuwa on my journeys is a blessing. There are many cranes and herons around Saga City, and I am always happy to see them.
Unlike the bigger cities, Saga city still has its rural aspects so it is a pairing of rural meets in rural areas. During the summer the city was alive with the sound of cicadas and the local tanuki would pick up a fight with the roaming cats. And now in the colder months, a host of birds can be seen sitting on the overhead wires.
I have never lived in a large urban city like that of London so I cannot judge the variety of wildlife in comparison. But I do at least know in Saga City I have yet to run into a rat or fox. London is famed for its rats and how bold they can be. But Saga sits quietly with its cranes and murders of crows who always disappear as quickly as you spot them.
I would certainly recommend taking quieter moments in your adventures in Japan to appreciate the wildlife around you even if you are roaming the neon jungle of Tokyo.
