Synopsis
Hata, the protagonist, has been working at Nitta Tech Construction, a company specializing in exterior building repairs, for two years. He tends to avoid social interactions, but at a colleague’s invitation, he joins a climb on Mount Rokko and gradually becomes captivated by its allure.
Meanwhile, Hata learns that Mega, a veteran employee who is often treated as an eccentric for his craftsmanship, is choosing to eschew conventional mountain trails and instead go on “bali mountaineering.” He begs him to join him. As they embark on this perilous journey together, Hata comes face to face with a “reality” that is distinct from his everyday life and work, and begins to reexamine his ideal lifestyle and values.
Review
■The Joy of Mountaineering
This is the first time I’ve heard the mountaineering term “bali” in this novel. Mountaineering is a very popular hobby, and I personally wasn’t particularly interested in it, but this novel captures the joy of mountaineering with a detailed description.
This joy is primarily depicted through the unique climbing technique known as “bali,” which involves choosing our own path rather than following a standard mountaineering route.
Climbing Bali is a completely natural experience, and while quite challenging, it’s certainly worthwhile, as it allows one to experience the normally impossible world of human union with nature.
■Life and Climbing
I’m most drawn to the character of Mega.
Mega’s climbing method, which involves facing real danger and experiencing the joy of becoming one with nature, stands apart from modern values. Furthermore, taking control of one’s own life and avoiding unnecessary cooperation may not seem appealing to many, but it is an essential human way of life and deserves to be respected.
Through the story of the protagonist, who changes jobs and tries to fit in, and Mega’s self-directed lifestyle, as well as the climbing method known as Bali, this story seems to question what one’s own path in life should be and what one wants to do.
