Kombu

Are wakame and kombu different?

Source: tatoeba (10535122)

[T]he productions of Jeso, in particular, are as follows: konbu, or sea-cabbage, birds of prey for hawking, whales and other sea-fish, skins of otters, beavers, seals, and stags, castoreum, gold, silver, adamantine spar.

Source: wiktionary

The chief occupation along the shore is gathering the seaweed called kombu (something like our kelp, or quite the same), which is sent in such large quantities to China; and a certain amount of fishing is also done. The kombu grows upon submarine rocks, but for drying it a wide, flat space is needed, and the houses, therefore, are placed along the sandy beaches; and almost every beach however small is occupied.

Source: wiktionary

A kombu or kombu-shiitake stock is also quick and mineral rich and makes a fragrant base for broth or miso soup. Wipe a six-inch piece of kombu seaweed with a damp cloth to remove dust and excess salt. Place the kombu in a pot with four to six cups of water. Bring to a light boil and simmer for five minutes. Steep for five minutes. Remove seaweed and use stock. The kombu can be cut and used again in soups or other dishes.

Source: wiktionary