I attended the talk event celebrating the release of novelist Ito Ogawa's "Itoshiki Mono" (Bungeishunju) 🕊

Novelist Ito Ogawa's "Itoshiki Mono" (Bungeishunju)
I attended the talk event celebrating its release🕊

May 17, 2025 / At Jozankei Onsen, Kyujitsu Building

Ito Ogawa, who has created numerous famous works such as "The Restaurant of Love's Healing," "Tsurukame Maternity Clinic," "The Stationery Shop Tsubaki," and "Lion's Snack."

It was a very precious event where I could meet such an author.
I was so nervous on the way to Jozankei...

By the time I lined up for the autograph session where I could speak to her directly,
my heart was already full of nervousness.

When I actually met her, Ms. Ogawa was calm, elegant, and
wrapped in a soft aura.
She was very lovely and beautiful, and every word she spoke seemed to soothe my heart.

"Itoshiki Mono" (Beloved Things).
It is not just about "things" like tableware or furniture,
but also nature, places, time, relationships with people...
It was a moment where she gently unraveled that it also includes "important things" that are invisible but fill our hearts.

The venue for this event, "Kyujitsu Building," was
also a special place.
You see, Ms. Ogawa is an "onsen enthusiast" who visits hot springs about 350 days a year.
She says creative ideas come to her while walking, driving, or when she is "resetting" in a hot spring or sauna.
The importance of having "time to empty your head."
I felt that this is a hint not only for creativity but also for living each day with care.

On this day, I also experienced one of the longest baths of my life.
The bath was packed with features that made me want to stay for a long time...
I understood why Ms. Ogawa couldn't easily leave! (laughs)

A day filled with memorable words, beautiful time, and wonderful encounters. I will cherish this day, and as I continue to engage with Ms. Ogawa's works, I want to carefully look at the "beloved things" for myself.