2025/03/23 [Sun]
Reflecting on Recent Weather Changes
Hi everyone! How have you been? The weather has been quite a rollercoaster lately. Just a week ago, we experienced a fair amount of snowfall—though it didn’t stick around—it was still pretty cold. The following days brought gloomy rain, but now, things are warming up. This week, the forecast shows highs in the 20s, which is fantastic! Sweater weather truly is the best weather.
The Balance of Indoor and Outdoor Comfort
The transitional weather comes with its own set of challenges. Dressing appropriately can be tricky. During winter, if I layer up too much, I might feel fine outdoors, but the moment I step inside, I start overheating. My go-to strategy is to wear a short-sleeved shirt underneath a thicker layer that I can easily remove. Otherwise, I end up feeling like I’m melting, especially when riding trains. Winter train heaters can be overbearing, making me feel the need to crack open a window just to cool off.
On the flip side, summer trains are a different story. Even with air conditioning on full blast, the heat from outside often wins. At least, malls and larger establishments tend to have robust central AC systems, which make them much more comfortable. Stepping outside, however, brings a harsh reminder of the summer heat.
Enjoying the Current Weather
For now, the weather is perfect, and I’m enjoying it. A short-sleeved shirt or a hoodie is my go-to outfit depending on the wind. This pleasant period is something to savor before the summer heat fully arrives. I also plan to take advantage of this season by climbing some of the nearby mountains.
Mountain Climbing Plans
My goal is to tackle Mt. Haruna and Mt. Akagi before early June, as the rising temperatures might make the climbs uncomfortable later on. The higher elevations tend to be cooler, but climbing up and down on a warm day still generates plenty of heat. I’ve climbed Mt. Fuji and Mt. Yotei in the past, where I learned valuable lessons about gear. During those climbs, I started overheating despite packing emergency warm clothes. On both occasions, I ended up scaling the peaks in just my pants and a t-shirt. At the summit, the strong winds required an extra layer for warmth. Wind, more than anything, was the main factor in feeling cold. This made me realize the importance of investing in a reliable windbreaker instead of thick insulation.
Preparing for Future Climbs
This time around, I plan to be better prepared. Previously, I climbed without much preparation or equipment, which made the experience challenging. A proper climbing backpack and climbing poles are now on my list. Climbing poles, in particular, can make the descent easier and safer. Did you know that most climbing accidents actually occur on the way down? With that in mind, I’m more convinced than ever to add poles to my gear. My descent of Mt. Yotei was particularly treacherous due to slippery, muddy conditions. I ended up slipping and falling multiple times, which wasn’t fun, but thankfully I knew how to slide down safely. Climbing poles could have made the journey so much easier.
Spring Activities and Cherry Blossoms
How about you? Are you into mountain climbing? Do you have any special plans for spring? With cherry blossoms about to reach full bloom, Hanami could be a wonderful way to enjoy the season. If you decide to partake in it, I hope you have an amazing time!
