When I saw Sakurajima from the train, I knew I had arrived in Kagoshima.
This still-active volcano blends into everyday life in Kagoshima like a backdrop, visible from all around. Even though it can bring inconveniences like volcanic ash, it feels so naturally woven into the cityscape. For visitors, it’s a rare and memorable sight, but for locals, it’s simply part of daily life.
Sakurajima | Review by 金己田
Other Reviews by 金己田
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Kamogawa (Kyoto)
Kamogawa has its head in Mt. Sajikigatake, runs through Kyoto north to south, and merges into Katsura River in Toba. Near Shijo, there is downtown such as Gion on the east side and Kawaramachi on the west, the main commercial area representing Kyoto.
I took a walk to the area near Shijo Ohashi Bridge on the Kamogawa River and went down the steps. The famous “evenly spaced seating” was right in front of me. Couples, students out for a walk—everyone really seemed to have an unspoken agreement to sit at just the right distance from each other.
The weather was perfect, so I joined in too. I originally planned to stay for just 10 minutes, but with the gentle breeze, chatting with my friend and zoning out while looking at the river, I ended up sitting there for half an hour. It became the most relaxing and memorable part of my trip to Kyoto. -
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Blue Seal Café Kokusai Street Store
Blue Seal, is the beloved ice cream brand founded in 1948 in Okinawa, renowned for its unique Okinawan flavors, such as beni-imo (purple sweet potato), shikuwasa (Okinawan lime) and salt chinsuko (a local biscuit). With over 20 varieties always available, the lineup at their Kokusai Street store includes both classic and limited-edition products, tailored to suit the hot and humid climate of Okinawa with a rich yet refreshing taste.
When visiting Okinawa, Blue Seal is an ice cream brand many people make a point to try. This time, I chose their signature Blue Wave. It combines soda-flavored ice cream with pineapple fruit ice cream, which is a pretty unique pairing.
I’ve hardly had a flavor like this anywhere else. If you’re in Okinawa, I’d recommend giving this distinctive flavor a try. -
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Yokohama Marine Tower
Built in 1961 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Yokohama's port opening, the Yokohama Marine Tower stands as a beloved symbol of the city. Standing at 106 meters and inspired by a lighthouse, you can spot this landmark from a number of points across the Bay Area. With significant renovations completed in 2022, the spot now glimmers as a fully enhanced, prime destination.
Located next to Yamashita Park, Yokohama Marine Tower was originally a lighthouse, and its renovated steel-frame exterior gives it a modern feel.
While it may not be the tallest landmark, its location is actually a great advantage if you want to see the ocean or watch ships coming in and out of Yamashita Pier. If you happen to be taking a walk through Yamashita Park, it’s worth stopping by the observation deck for a different view of Yokohama Port. -
