What can we say to make you feel better right now? Maybe you’re feeling disappointment at cancelled travel plans or events. Maybe you’re feeling more extreme emotions like anger because of lost work, or fear of the unknown. We’re not psychologists so we don’t know for sure… but we’ve stayed positive in this intro column the last 11 years. Is that the key? Positivity has a way of generating more positivity. Goodwill, which is positivity in action, yields happiness in yourself and others. Please support local businesses. Check on neighbors. Show appreciation. To that end–thank you for reading us! (p.s.…
Author: Seasider
The contrast between the bright pendant lights and subtle glow of candles on the tables at Bier Bar BOUCHÈRE creates a calming, nostalgic atmosphere. Antique furniture adds to the retro feel. Such a moody ambiance evoked by the light gradients makes it the perfect place to spend a quiet evening. The restaurant specializes in authentic European-style meat dishes prepared by owner Tomihito Maruyama. He studied meat processing (sausage-making, etc.) in Germany and has received many awards at both domestic and international contests. No talk of fine German meats is complete without mention of the country’s great beer culture, too. To…
Mitsuzawa Kamicho isn’t a very well-known part of Yokohama. Eateries are scarce in this area, which is why Kamicho Cafe has become the locals’ go-to place for delicious lunches and desserts. The cafe is roughly divided into two main parts–a bakery at the entrance and a cozy eat-in space connected to a small, outdoor terrace where you can eat with your pets. Given that it’s the only cafe in the area, you’ll find a large selection of both savory and sweet items to choose from. The prices are surprisingly reasonable as well (small pastries are sold for only ¥50) for…
Thanks to the success of our PHOTO CABIN, which I wrote about in the last issue, I have more to add to our story. There are some new developments also going on at THE DARKROOM. The plan for a new photo studio project is underway. In reality, it’s been in operation since last summer. But there is a real sense of progress right now. A few days ago construction for phone lines was finally completed, internet connections were established, and the schedule for renovations was set. Plans for the studio’s name, its logo, strategic direction and branding concepts are steadily…
The TELL Lifeline is an English-language support service. While suicide prevention is a major aim, TELL’s website states, “Whatever is troubling you, we are here to listen.” It was established in 1973 as a member of the Inochi-no-Denwa (Japanese Lifeline) federation and is run by volunteers. Skorji has been working for over 15 years at TELL in a variety of roles, but is now the director of the Lifeline. Why do people call the Lifeline? We take calls on absolutely everything. Our volunteers may take calls for suicide, domestic violence, or rape. But the most common type of call we…
Welcome to an unusual edition of the Yokohama Seasider. Last month marked 11 years of publication! This month is the first issue with no event listings. That’s because of COVID-19 and the uncertainty of events even taking place. We slimmed down for this issue, but included a longer article on a relevant topic. We’ve been pivoting away from events and toward longer articles for some time, as more people gather that information online. We’ll continue in this direction as the situation evolves. Please note that free pdfs of our magazine, including back issues, are always available from our website. Keep…
Tanmachi is an area full of hidden gems and unexpected discoveries. Amid busy streets you’ll find quiet alleyways and parks, interesting buildings, and hole-in-the-wall cafes and restaurants. Gorge Bakery sits just two minutes away from Tanmachi Station. The cozy eat-in space, warm atmosphere, and trays and baskets full of pastries exude Parisian vibes. You’ll notice that every baked item is beautifully presented and impactful in appearance, but the flavors are clean and simple. “My goal is to accentuate the quality and flavor of the flour, so I aim to keep my recipes simple,” explains owner Kohei Kobayashi. Just a bite…
It might surprise some to know that there is a trendy coffee shop tucked away in the middle of Chinatown’s numerous restaurants, shops and teahouses. Chillulu Coffee & Hostel is a specialty coffee shop with dormitory-type lodging offered on the 2nd floor. The name is a mix of the English word “chill” converted to a Japanese verb form. The intent is to convey that it’s a place where you can chill out in the usual bustle of the neighborhood. A wooden table handmade by the staff, a heart-shaped wall display made from colorful tape, and a pet-friendly terrace all convey…
Few snacks go alongside beer better than nuts. Your hand seems to automatically reach for more as soon as you put your glass down. And if you’re drinking craft beer, it just seems right to be snacking on some smoked nuts made locally in the same spirit as your beverage. For those of us that live in Yokohama, that’s an available option. Sakura Smoked Workshop in Isogo-ku makes small batches of smoked nuts, all handmade by Yokohama native Kōji Takahashi and his wife Rie. Craft beer fans that frequently visit the Noge area surely know Takahashi’s popular bar, Sakura Taps,…
Spring is already in the air. Though this winter was a mild one, it’s difficult not to get excited by the violet ume (plum) blossoms popping up everywhere. If all goes as predicted by the experts, the sakura (cherry trees) will be blooming as early as mid-March. The ephemeral flowers will be the centerpiece of countless gatherings in parks, the dominant subject of endless photos and art, and a topic in every school principal’s speech to begin the new academic year. You would think that we would be used to it by now, but Mother Nature’s grand spring display is…