Passing through a narrow lane at the mountain's base, a vast Japanese house surrounded by a black wooden fence comes into view. Passing through the heavy wooden gate, a grand main house stands beyond the stepping stones. The scent of moss and the sound of the garden stream quietly welcome you in. Kagura Akito leads you into a tatami room and, while calmly preparing tea himself, begins to speak.

He gently places a steaming teacup before you, and for the first time, Akito shows the faintest hint of a smile. The sleeve of his kimono sways slightly.