Chapter 185: Nagano
Nagano, a prefecture in Japan’s Chubu region, is a mountainous gem renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.
Surrounded by the Northern Japanese Alps, its landscape is dominated by towering peaks, dense pine forests, and lush green valleys.
The air here feels fresher and cooler compared to Tokyo’s humid heat, a refreshing change for travelers after a long journey.
In summer, Nagano offers outdoor activities like hiking and rafting, but it’s also known for its rich traditional culture, including ancient temples and soothing natural hot springs.
After a tedious four-hour journey, the bus carrying the Ohananomitsu High School Archery Club finally arrived at their destination—a traditional Japanese inn at the foot of Nagano’s mountains.
The warm wooden architecture with classic slanted roofs, surrounded by a serene Zen garden, welcomed them.
The clock showed around 1 p.m.
The bus door opened, and one by one, the club members stepped off, stretching their stiff bodies.
In total, there were nine club members: six boys and three girls.
Two additional adults accompanied the group: Coach Takigawa Masaki and club advisor Kirisu Mafuyu.
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With her elegant long pink hair and unwavering cool expression, Mafuyu stood before the students, waiting for them to gather at the inn’s reception area.