From the mountains to the coast of Hokkaido, I have been traveling in pursuit of wild animals, driven by curiosity. When I am alone in the wilderness following the rhythm of nature, I feel the wildness that lies dormant inside me gradually beginning to be awakened. The feeling of being one with nature gives me an intense bliss.
When I am immersed in the pristine wilderness, I often wonder what it would have been like to witness the diversity of wild creatures and their dramas unfolding before my eyes 150 years ago when wolves howling echoed across the vast forests and otters chased fish in the lakes and rivers. I sometimes wish if I could catch a glimpse of that lost world even if only once in my dream.
I have had numerous encounters with wild living creatures and witnessed precious moments in their life stories. I have been deeply moved by their brave appearances. They have given me courage and I have often learned valuable lessons from them. Little by little, my view of the world has been changing and it will continue to do so.
I now strongly feel that there is a need for conveying messages from the perspective of wildlife which I have spent much time with and received countless blessings from.
From the foot of Mount Daisetsu, where powder snow flutters in the air.
DAISAKU UEDA