Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk: Oil-rich capital of the island is dynamically changing

Modern and renewed buildings are growing rapidly, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk (Южно-Сахалинск: simply ‘Yuzhny’ to locals) is oil-rich capital of the island. The town was called Toyohara until 1945, where you will find Japanese historic architectures. There is enough here to explore for a day, but the key to enjoying excursion is contacting tour companies.

The gridded town is quite walkable, on main streets just enough shops, typical apartments, monuments and statues. Locals like to hang out around the giant Lenin Statue, Chekhov Center and Gagarin Park.