You thought I’ve forgotten about this, didn’t you? Fear not. Though I am lazy and take forever to update my blog, I will not forget about Sakura Memories and leave it hanging, especially when this chapter was so sweet. Thus far, Sakura Memories has succeed in showcasing the beautiful landscape of Japan and its unique food and culture through the dining and exploration of our host, Niki Chow. I also commend the camerawork. The angle and lighting present captivating stills that almost look like paintings. But what this episode offered was a little bit more, making a travel show more than a mere travel show. Similar to the second chapter, there was underlying emotional appeal, but in a more day-to-day perspective.

Do you remember your days in high school, your friends and the time you spent studying together, eating together, playing together? If you’ve graduated, have you been back to visit that place where many of your memories reside? I think high school is a period in which a teenager truly grows and learns to be more mature. (This explains why so many anime focus on school life.) The process is hard and sometimes, when you realize what you’re going through, it is startling. But that’s why there are teachers around to guide you, family to support you, and friends to walk with you. Some of what you’re taught may not be practical for real life, but that’s not important. What’s important is your growth throughout the process.

The same goes for time spent with family and time used for relaxation. Homecook food and a rice cake your father personally hand you probably aren’t too expensive. Actually, they’re priceless. Ten years from now, you’ll remember them and tears might start flowing. Ten years from now, maybe you’ll be able to afford your own luxurious home, rather than spend your life in a tiny trailer home by the lake. But that’s when you’ll really start appreciating the little things in life and the carefree days you had. These subtle feelings of joy are what I enjoyed most while Niki explored an older town school, experienced a family meal, and visited an older couple by the lake.

However, no interaction between Niki and the family or couple would have been possible if marriage didn’t exist. Weddings are special, and they’re special because so much effort go into planning them, so much love, desire, and commitment to making them happen. The time and energy Niki forked out to learn and create the bridal ornament was worth it. It looks very sweet. I hope she’ll get the chance to make one for her own wedding one day. I hope she’ll soon find a perfect partner to sit facing her and watch the sunset together.

Don’t forget to go to the Sakura Memories album in the Photobook for more pictures, and tune in for the last chapter!

Preview

Note: I’m testing out a new approach at writing these episodic summaries. That is, incorporating my thoughts in the summaries and thus, better emphasize on my analysis/insight and specific scenes that stood out. I hope it’s more enjoyable to read this way.