Yokohama
横浜市
Things to Do in and Around Yokohama
Yokohama is one of Japan's leading port cities adjacent to Tokyo, known for its unique landscape where Japanese and Western styles harmonize. The area is full of sights to see just by walking around, including Chinatown, the Red Brick Warehouse, and Minato Mirai. The sea view and nightscape from Yamashita Park are also impressive, offering enjoyment from daytime to nighttime.
Where is Yokohama?
Yokohama City is located in the eastern part of Kanagawa Prefecture and is one of Japan's largest port cities facing Tokyo Bay. To the east is Tokyo Bay, to the north is Kawasaki City, to the west are the inland areas of Yokohama City and Yamato City, and to the south are Kamakura City and Zushi City. The city is divided into 18 administrative wards, with the central area including the Kannai and Sakuragicho areas, the Motomachi and Yamate areas known for Chinatown, and the Minato Mirai area lined with modern skyscrapers. Despite being only about a 30-minute train ride from central Tokyo, it has developed as a city with its own unique history and culture. The varied terrain of sea and hills is also a characteristic of Yokohama.
Getting Around
Yokohama is conveniently accessible from Tokyo City by train in about 30 minutes. The JR Tokaido Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Yokosuka Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, and Minatomirai Line all serve the area, with the main station being Yokohama Station. Additionally, it takes about 30 minutes by limousine bus from Haneda Airport and about 90 minutes by Narita Express from Narita Airport.
For getting around the city, the Blue Line subway and Seaside Line are convenient, and the "Akai Kutsu Bus" can be used to tour tourist spots. Walking around the Minatomirai area is also recommended.
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About Yokohama
Yokohama has developed as Japan's gateway since its port opened in 1859. It has a history of actively incorporating foreign cultures since the Meiji era, forming a unique urban landscape and culture. Even today, many buildings and facilities like Yamashita Park and the Red Brick Warehouse remain, allowing visitors to enjoy the historical atmosphere.
Yokohama Chinatown - One of Asia's Largest
Yokohama China Town / Photo AC
Yokohama Chinatown is the largest in Japan and one of the largest in Asia, with about 600 Chinese restaurants, food stores, and shops. It is bustling with tourists who enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine and experience traditional Chinese events and culture. Chinese temples like Kanteibyo and Masobyo are scattered throughout, creating an exotic atmosphere.
Advanced Urban Development - Minato Mirai 21
The Minato Mirai 21 district is a modern area representing Yokohama, born from a large-scale urban development project that began in the 1980s. It features skyscrapers like Landmark Tower, shopping malls, museums, and concert halls, bustling with people day and night. The night view is particularly famous as one of Japan's top three night views, making it a popular tourist spot.
Japan's First Ice Cream
It is said that the first ice cream in Japan was made in Yokohama. In 1869, it was served to foreigners at "Hyosuiya" on Bashamichi. Today, a monument marks the birthplace of Japan's first ice cream on Bashamichi, where visitors can enjoy "Yokohama Bashamichi Ice."
Cup Noodles Museum
In Yokohama's Minato Mirai, there is an interactive museum conveying the inventive spirit of Momofuku Ando, who developed the world's first instant ramen "Chicken Ramen" and "Cup Noodles." The "My Cup Noodles Factory," where you can create your own original cup noodles, is a popular activity among foreign tourists.
Yokohama's Nature and Parks
Though Yokohama has a strong urban image, it also has many parks rich in nature. Yamashita Park is a green space along the sea where you can enjoy iconic Yokohama views like the "Hikawa Maru" and "Yokohama Marine Tower." Additionally, Sankeien is a Japanese garden created by businessman Sankei Hara, featuring historical buildings designated as important cultural properties of Japan, where you can enjoy the beauty of Japan's four seasons.
Anime and Drama Filming Locations
Yokohama's distinctive scenery is often used as a filming location for many anime and dramas. Especially the Minato Mirai district, Yamashita Park, and Yokohama Chinatown appear in numerous works like the popular anime "BLUE GIANT" and the "Detective Conan" series. Among fans, visiting the settings of these works, known as "pilgrimage tours," is popular.