In Kashima Gorge

A few days ago I was talking with a friend from work, Jason, who has previously lived in Kashima. We were talking about some of the interesting locations in Kashima. Jason told me about a gorge behind Cherio mall that had a walking trail. I had not seen it so I was excited to explore it. Today I finally made it there. The entrance to the path was off from the sidewalk and was difficult to notice if you weren't looking for it. At the entrance I met a little old lady who was climbing up the stairs, leaving the trail. We talked for a bit. She told me her eighty four year old friend lives in New York. I told her I am a English teacher that has only been here for a couple months. And how hot this summer has been. We say goodbye and I go down to check out the gorge. It was a beautiful trail, it starts next to a pond and follows a stream. There was a lot of wildlife; birds, fish, turtles, frogs, lizards, and dragonflies to name a few. Towards the end of the trail I found a straw hat hanging from a tree. It was a wonderful place to explore and just enjoy the nature. I really appreciate Jason sharing this with me.