William It’s easy to forget how close Kumamoto is to the sea. Kumanichi reports on a wayward ray spotted near Kumamoto Station. One hopes he figured out how to get back to Ariake - the river only has two directions, so it shouldn’t be too difficult. https://kumanichi.com/articles/1159396 Cooling weather invites outdoor activities. A wonderful bicycle ride takes the left bank (facing seaward) of Shirakawa all the way to Ariake. In town, ride along a small road at the foot of the levee; there is little traffic, and tunnels under each crossroad means no lights. Outside of town (at a small temple called 十禅寺), a steep flight of steps leads to a path atop the levee and unimpeded access to the sea with wonderful views. As an extension, when you reach the sea, turn left and continue on to Kumamoto Port (the bridge there would be the only hill on the route). Happy trails!