Understand

Minamata - A Tale of Tragedy and Resilience Once known for the infamous Minamata disease, caused by the contamination of its bay with mercury from a chemical plant, this Japanese town has a haunting past. The disease, also known as Minamata-by, brought devastating neurological symptoms such as paralysis, insanity, and even death. The culprit, the Chisso Corporation, tried to evade responsibility, suppressing critical research and falsely claiming to have cleaned up its wastewater. As a result, an estimated 17,000 people fell victim to this heartbreaking epidemic. Photographer W. Eugene Smith bravely shed light on this tragedy in 1972, despite facing severe beatings from yakuza goons. Despite its dark history, Minamata offers more than just sorrow. Nestled along Kumamoto's picturesque Shiranui Coast, often compared to the Mediterranean, this town boasts breathtaking scenery that will leave you enchanted. Moreover, its proximity to several inviting hot springs adds a dash of relaxation and rejuvenation to your visit.

Get in

Minamata, a captivating city in Japan, is conveniently served by Shin-Minamata station. This station is part of the Kyushu Shinkansen line, connecting Minamata to major cities such as Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Kagoshima. Traveling on the Kyushu Shinkansen is an unforgettable experience, as you zoom past picturesque landscapes and cultural landmarks. However, if you prefer a more leisurely journey, the private Hisatsu Orange Railway is another option. This railway offers a slower, but equally charming route from Yatsushiro to Satsumasendai, with stops at both Shin-Minamata and the "old" Minamata station. Embark on a memorable adventure as you explore the wonders of Minamata and its surrounding areas.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing