I heard her singing before I saw them. A close knit family of adult children, prone to laughing, supporting their elderly parents as they enjoyed the golden hillside scenery of Oishi Kogen in Wakayama. Her husband, looking a little more frail than she on a chill late October afternoon, would occasionally join his deeper voice to hers.

After circling the family for a while, I finally built up the courage to approach, to tell her how much I enjoyed her song, and if they would mind my recording and uploading a video of it.

She was quite eager to agree, though I think had to squish down a bit of stage fright. As she sung, we stood enjoying the slightly surreal moment. Her husband, off camera, eyes closed, moved his hands like an orchestra conductor.

Song sung, the family moved to leave, and I heard them laughing as they made their way down the slopes.

Thanks to Serune-san, I now know this is called the Thistle song, and the lyrics (in Japanese). I regret not asking the name of the singer, but I’m grateful for the sweet moment and the ability to share it.