The light at the end of this long tunnel–that’s the June sun (unless monsoon rains are falling)! We know these last few months have been difficult. However, it seems we’ve come through the tunnel of uncertainty. The situation, as it relates to COVID-19, is improving. Businesses are returning to normal and people are venturing out again. We shouldn’t abandon caution just yet, and we should still follow sensible practices (face masks, hand washing, etc). We should also support our local businesses–they need your help to recover. Patronize them if you can. We’ve said it before and say it again: Together,…
Author: Seasider
With many people spending much more time dining at home these days, we suspect our readers have been experimenting in the kitchen. For aspiring chefs out there, a full arsenal of spices and seasonings makes all the difference. Yokohama’s own Iwai Sesame Oil Company produces a range of high quality sesame oils, pastes and other flavorings that should keep you busy conjuring up new recipes. Iwai was founded in 1857 in Sakura City, Chiba, but relocated to Yokohama in 1893 due to the city’s strong commerce. To this day, the company still employs its traditional methods of production, meticulously roasting…
Ohkawa Tetsuo is the 6th member of his family to hold the title of president of Ohkawa Printing Company. This Yokohama-based company has been printing the Yokohama Seasider for about ten years, and also works with many other Yokohama businesses. Mr. Ohkawa recently spoke with our founder, Ry Beville, about the importance and future of print media. Both were aware of the irony (and unfortunate nature) of this interview appearing in the first fully digital edition of the Seasider, due to the Coronavirus. At the same time, it seemed more important than ever to discuss these issues. Why do you…
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.…
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…