Minamata Bay is located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its scenic beauty and as a fishing area. However, it gained international attention due to severe pollution caused by industrial waste, particularly from the Chisso Corporation, which discharged mercury into the bay from the 1930s to the 1960s. This led to the Minamata disease, a neurological condition affecting many residents and wildlife. The pollution resulted in significant environmental and health impacts, prompting legal actions and public awareness campaigns. Efforts have since been made to clean up the bay and support affected communities. The incident serves as a critical example of the consequences of industrial pollution and the importance of environmental regulations.