Yokohama

Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, is a mix of modern architecture, historical charm, cultural vibrancy, and seaside tranquility. This guide takes a closer look at the city’s must-see spots, dining experiences, and travel tips.

Minato Mirai District

Minato Mirai is the iconic waterfront area of Yokohama, a blend of futuristic skyscrapers and serene bayside views. Here are the highlights:

• Landmark Tower and Sky Garden
  From the Landmark Tower, one of the tallest in Japan, you can take in stunning views from the Sky Garden Observation Deck. Located on the 69th floor, this observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, Mount Fuji on clear days, and the surrounding bay.
• Shopping Complexes
  Minato Mirai is a shopper’s paradise:
  • Queen’s Square: A mix of high-end boutiques, casual shops, and eateries.
  • Mark: A family-friendly mall with a variety of shops and restaurants.
  • World Porters: A quirky shopping mall featuring international cuisine and unique items across themed floors.
• Cosmo World and Ferris Wheel
  Yokohama Cosmo World is a family-friendly amusement park featuring the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, which doubles as a clock. The ferris wheel offers stunning views of the city, especially at night when the area is illuminated.
• Blue Bottle Coffee and Relaxation Spot
  For a quiet moment, visit Blue Bottle Coffee for premium coffee. Enjoy a waterfront view or take a stroll in the nearby park.

Historic Harbour and Waterfront

Yokohama’s historic port area captures the essence of its rich maritime heritage and serves as Japan’s first gateway to international trade. The vibrant waterfront combines historic landmarks, modern attractions, and cultural experiences.

• Red Brick Warehouse
  A beautifully preserved architectural icon, the Red Brick Warehouse houses boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and art galleries. Seasonal events, such as Christmas markets and outdoor concerts, enhance its appeal as a dynamic community space.
• Nippon Maru and Maritime Museum
  Moored in the heart of Yokohama’s waterfront, the Nippon Maru is a retired sailing ship turned museum. It showcases the lives of sailors through preserved cabins and navigation tools. Adjacent to it, the Yokohama Maritime Museum explores the city’s maritime history.
• Osanbashi Pier
  Osanbashi Pier features an undulating design and serves as both a cruise terminal and public space. The rooftop promenade offers breathtaking panoramic views of landmarks like Yokohama Bay and the Landmark Tower, making it an ideal spot for sunset photography.
• Hammerhead Mall
  A modern waterfront facility, Hammerhead Mall blends history with contemporary design. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, including exclusive items at its 7-Eleven. Visitors can shop, dine, and enjoy stunning bay views.

Chinatown and Surroundings

Yokohama Chinatown, Japan’s largest, is a vibrant enclave full of cultural charm, culinary delights, and historical significance.

• Restaurants and Street Food
  The heart of Chinatown lies in its culinary diversity. Enjoy dim sum, Peking duck, noodles, and steamed bread, with the chance to try freshly made panda-shaped bread—a local favorite.
• Shopping Street
  Chinatown features shops selling traditional Chinese goods, such as herbal medicines, ornaments, and specialty foods. These shops reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Motomachi District
  A short walk from Chinatown, Motomachi is a European-style district filled with chic boutiques, high-end fashion brands, and cozy cafes. The elegant atmosphere blends Japanese and Western influences, making it perfect for leisurely strolling and shopping.
• American Mountain Park
  Connecting Chinatown and Motomachi, this hillside park offers peaceful walkways, open spaces, and stunning views. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

Museums and Cultural Facilities

Yokohama has a variety of museums and cultural attractions for visitors to explore the city’s history, innovation, and creativity.

• Cup Noodle Museum
  This interactive museum is dedicated to instant ramen, a Japanese invention that revolutionized world cuisine. Explore the life of Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant noodles, and design your own cup noodle in the Chicken Ramen Factory.
• Yokohama Port Museum
  Offering a comprehensive view of Yokohama’s maritime history, the museum features interactive exhibits and models showcasing the city’s evolution from a fishing village to a bustling port.
• Kirin Beer Tour
  For beer lovers, the Kirin Brewery Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. Guests can enjoy a beer tasting session to explore Kirin’s unique flavors.
• Nissan Gallery
  Car enthusiasts will enjoy the Nissan Gallery, which showcases the latest automotive technology and classic cars. Visitors can explore sustainable mobility solutions and learn about Nissan’s contribution to the automotive industry.
• Shiseido Museum
  Dive into the world of Japanese beauty and skincare at the Shiseido Museum. Learn about the brand’s history and explore its innovations in cosmetics and skincare.

Parks and Gardens

Yokohama’s parks and gardens offer a peaceful retreat in the urban landscape, providing an opportunity to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

• Sankei-en
  Sankei-en is a traditional Japanese garden covering over 175,000 square meters, featuring meticulously manicured grounds, a koi pond, and historic buildings. The garden includes several relocated buildings from the Edo and Kamakura periods, such as a tea room and a tower. It is a picturesque spot for photographers and nature lovers, with seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. You can also enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in the garden’s tea room.
• Harbour View Park
  True to its name, Harbour View Park offers stunning panoramic views of Yokohama Bay and the harbor area. Perched on high ground, it’s an ideal spot to watch boats pass by or enjoy a romantic sunset. The park’s beautifully manicured grounds, flower beds, and walking trails provide a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. The British House Yokohama, a charming historic building in the park, frequently hosts events and exhibitions.
• Yamashita Park
  Stretching along Yokohama’s waterfront, Yamashita Park is one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. With wide walkways, manicured lawns, and harbor views, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic while enjoying the sea breeze. The park features statues, fountains, and a rose garden, adding to its charm. The Hikawa Maru, a museum of retired marine liners, offers a nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s maritime past.
• Art Square
  Art Square is an open-air cultural space that celebrates creativity and community. Hosting rotating art installations, performances, and cultural events, it’s a dynamic and inspiring spot in the heart of Yokohama. Whether you’re appreciating public art or participating in workshops, Art Square offers a vibrant atmosphere.

Shopping in Yokohama

From modern malls and upscale boutiques to unique specialty stores and historic shopping streets, Yokohama is a shopper’s paradise with diverse offerings.

• Minato Mirai Mall
  The Minato Mirai area features several expansive shopping malls, each with a unique character:
  • Landmark Plaza: Located in Yokohama’s iconic Landmark Tower, this mall offers high fashion boutiques, lifestyle stores, and global brands, making it a great spot for luxury shopping.
  • Queen’s Square: A large commercial complex connected to Minato Mirai Station, offering a variety of shops ranging from fashion to household goods.
  • MARK IS Minato Mirai: Known for its eco-friendly design, this family-friendly mall features a large food court with a range of eateries and shops for casual shopping.
• Specialty Stores
  For unique finds, Yokohama’s specialty stores are a treasure trove of quirky, character-themed products:
  • Ghibli Store: A haven for Studio Ghibli fans, offering goods inspired by classics like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away.
  • Sanrio Shop: Celebrating cuteness with a wide range of products featuring beloved characters like Hello Kitty and My Melody.
• Red Brick Warehouse
  The historic Red Brick Warehouse offers a local shopping experience with handmade goods, artisan items, and gourmet food. The site hosts seasonal markets and festivals, adding to its lively atmosphere.
• Motomachi Shopping Street
  For a sophisticated shopping experience, head to Motomachi Shopping Street, known for its European charm. The streets are lined with high-end boutiques, specialty stores, and chic cafes, making it a perfect spot for luxury shopping and discovering stylish brands.

Gourmet in Yokohama

Yokohama’s culinary scene is as diverse as its shopping, offering a variety of flavors and dining experiences.

• World Porters Restaurant
  Located in the Minato Mirai area, World Porters Mall is an international dining hub. It features a variety of restaurants, ranging from authentic Italian and French cuisine to local Japanese dishes, making it a perfect spot for a diverse culinary experience.
• Hawaiian Cuisine
  A delightful culinary surprise in Yokohama is its Hawaiian food scene. Don’t miss Leonard’s Malasadas, sweet and fluffy pastries resembling donuts, coated in sugar—a perfect snack or dessert.
• Food Court of Minato Mirai
  The Minato Mirai Mall has a fantastic food court offering a wide range of delicious options at affordable prices. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, ramen, curry, or international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. The casual environment makes it great for families and quick meals.
• Craft Beer Bars
  For beer lovers, Yokohama boasts an impressive selection of craft beer bars and breweries. Cozy establishments across the city serve locally brewed beer, often paired with tasty snacks. Exploring the city’s craft beer scene is a great way to relax and enjoy Yokohama’s vibrant social atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Visiting Yokohama

Best Time to Visit

• Spring: Yokohama is full of cherry blossoms, and it is a beautiful season to walk around parks such as Yamashita Park and Sankei-en. The weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities.
• Autumn: With refreshing air and bright leaves, autumn is another ideal time to visit. The red and golden shades of parks and gardens provide a wonderful backdrop for sightseeing.
• Summer: The weather can be humid, but summer can add vibrancy to your trip and be filled with exciting events like fireworks displays and outdoor markets.
• Winter: It’s cold, but the winter charm of the city is undeniable, with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and magical night illuminations of landmarks.

Shooting Spots

Yokohama offers many places to capture its beauty:

• Sky Garden:
  The panoramic view from the 69th floor of the Landmark Tower is perfect for skyline shots.
• Osan Bridge Pier:
  Its unique architectural design and vast views of the bay make it a photographer’s dream.
• Sankei-en:
  This traditional Japanese garden offers a tranquil setting with historic buildings and seasonal flowers.
• Cosmo Clock 21:
  Capture the iconic ferris wheel illuminated in the evening sky.
• Yamashita Park:
  A waterfront park with attractive views of the bay and Hikawa Maru.

Tours and Excursions

To learn more about Yokohama’s culture and history, consider taking a guided tour:

• Walking Tour:
  Discover Chinatown, Motomachi Shopping Street, and the historic harbor with the help of a knowledgeable guide.
• Food Tour:
  Explore Yokohama’s culinary scene and sample local cuisine and hidden gems.
• Theme Tours:
  Choose a professional experience, such as a brewery tour at Kirin or an art-focused tour at Minato Mirai.

Entertainment in Yokohama

Yokohama offers entertainment for all ages, fusing fun and culture with breathtaking experiences.

• Cosmo World Amusement Park:
  Located in Minato Mirai, this family-friendly park features exciting rides, arcade games, and the iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel. It’s a hit with both kids and adults looking for thrills.
• Harbour Cruise:
  You can take a cruise on the harbor and enjoy the Yokohama skyline from the water. Night cruises are especially popular, offering a romantic perspective of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
• Night Illumination:
  When the sun sets, Yokohama transforms into a shining wonderland. Landmarks such as the Red Brick Warehouse, Cosmo Clock 21, and Osanbashi Pier are beautifully lit up, making night walks and photo tours a must-see.
• Seasonal Festivals:
  Yokohama holds various seasonal events throughout the year:
  • Spring: Celebrate the Cherry Blossom Festival in parks and gardens.
  • Summer: Enjoy a stunning fireworks display over the harbour.
  • Autumn: Take part in food and cultural festivals showcasing local traditions.
  • Winter: Experience the charm of Christmas markets and illuminations, with highlights like the Yokohama Landmark Tower Christmas Display.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Minato Mirai & Chinatown

• Visit Sky Garden and explore Minato Mirai.
• Have lunch and shop in Chinatown.

Day 2: Red Brick Warehouse & Museum

• Visit the Red Brick Warehouse.
• Explore the Cupnoodles Museum and Kirin Beer.

Day 3: Parks & Gardens

• Spend the day at Sankei Garden and Harbour View Park.
• End the day walking around Yamashita Park.