Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, sits proudly in the Kanagawa Prefecture, kissing the waters of Tokyo Bay.
Steeped in history yet pushing the boundaries of innovation, Yokohama is a city that both respects tradition and embraces the future.
Through its diverse districts, you’ll find yourself immersed in a experiences that reveal the city’s unique vibe. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its quiet, leafy parks, Yokohama is a city full of surprises waiting to be explored.
This guide will take you beyond the tourist track, helping you to uncover the true Yokohama.
History of Yokohama
In the ancient times, Yokohama was nothing more than a sleepy fishing village. However, its fate was forever changed in the mid-19th century.
The year was 1853 when American Commodore Matthew Perry arrived, intending to end Japan’s centuries-old policy of isolation. His arrival marked the start of a new era, leading to the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1854, which demanded Japan open up its borders to foreign trade.
Two years later, in 1859, the previously unassuming Yokohama was chosen as one of the first Japanese ports to open for international trade.
Almost overnight, this quiet town bloomed into a hub of interaction between Japan and the Western world.
The settlement soon saw a blend of Western and Japanese architectural styles, influences that still shape Yokohama’s cityscape today.
How to Get to Yokohama
- JR Tokaido Line: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Tokaido Line bound for Ofuna or Hiratsuka.
- JR Shonan Shinjuku Line: You can catch the Shonan Shinjuku Line from major stations like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro.
- Keihin Tohoku Line: Depart from major stations like Tokyo, Akihabara, or Ueno and head to Yokohama Station.
- Minatomirai Line: If you’re around Shibuya, you can take the Toyoko Line to Yokohama and then switch to the Minatomirai Line which takes you to the Minatomirai area.
Best Places to Visit in Yokohama
1. Yokohama Chinatown
Established not long after Yokohama port was opened to foreign trade in the late 1850s, Yokohama’s Chinatown is now the largest in Japan and indeed one of the largest worldwide.
It quickly became a hub for Chinese immigrants who brought with them their rich cultural traditions, food, and architectural styles so in some ways, you really get the best of both worlds when you visit the “Cleanest Chinatown in the World.”
One of the first things you’ll notice when exploring this neighborhood is its four elaborately designed gates, each symbolizing different seasons and situated in the cardinal directions.
In the center, you’ll find the Kanteibyo, a brightly colored temple dedicated to the Chinese god of prosperity.
However, perhaps the most delightful part of visiting Yokohama’s Chinatown has got to be the food.
With over 600 shops and restaurants, the options are endless. You can try the Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Peking duck, a variety of stir-fries, or for dessert, the mooncake (which has a very interesting legend tied to it.)
I was with my friend Huong from Vietnam, the very first time I visited Yokohama. It was quite surprising to see so many all-you-can-eat buffets in almost every corner of the streets. (Huong and I go way back and we’ve had tons of adventures from Hanoi, Sayama Hills, and Ashikaga Flower Park, feel free to check them out if you’re keen!)
Needless to say, we were absolutely stuffed after just one stop.
Cost: Free
2. Sankeien Garden
Sankeien Garden is a sprawling, meticulously landscaped park covering about 175,000 square meters.
The brainchild of silk merchant and art patron Tomitaro Hara, known by his pseudonym Sankei Hara, the garden was opened to the public in 1906.
Walking into Sankeien is like stepping back in time. The garden is designed in the “circuit style,” featuring a central pond surrounded by winding trails and a plethora of flora that change colors with the seasons.
Whether it’s cherry blossoms in spring, fiery maple leaves in autumn, or the muted colors of winter, the garden presents a visual feast throughout the year.
But Sankeien isn’t just a garden. It’s also an outdoor museum of traditional Japanese architecture.
Scattered around the garden are 17 historical buildings of significant cultural value that Hara had brought from places like Kyoto and Kamakura.
These include several tea houses, the elegant Tomyoji three-storied pagoda, and the main hall of the old Tenzuiji temple.
Cost: 700 JPY (5 USD)
3. Yokohama Cosmo World
If you’re looking for some exhilarating fun, Yokohama’s Cosmo World is the place to go.
Perhaps the most iconic sight of Cosmo World – and indeed of Yokohama’s skyline – is the massive Ferris wheel, known as the Cosmo Clock 21.
At a height of 112.5 m (370 ft), it’s one of the world’s largest clock-equipped Ferris wheels. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Yokohama, especially at night when the cityscape turns into a symphony of lights.
Each ride lasts 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the view.
Another great aspect of Cosmo World is that there’s no entrance fee. You only pay for the rides you want to enjoy, making it an affordable choice for some fun-filled hours.
Cost: Free
4. Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
Is there anything more quintessentially Japanese than a bowl of ramen?
At the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, you’re not just tasting this iconic dish; you’re immersing yourself in its history, diversity, and deliciousness.
Opened in 1994, the museum is less a museum in the traditional sense and more a “food amusement park.”
It’s designed to mimic the streets of Tokyo in the year 1958, the era (Showa) when ramen truly began to flourish in Japan.
The nostalgia-filled ambiance, complete with period-appropriate signage, music, and shops, creates a unique and immersive experience.
The museum’s heart is its “ramen town,” featuring nine ramen shops selected from across Japan.
Each shop serves a regional variant of ramen, from the rich, miso-based ramen of Hokkaido to the lighter, soy-based version of Tokyo, and even the unique, pork-based tonkotsu ramen of Kyushu.
It’s a gastronomic journey through Japan, all without leaving Yokohama!
Cost: 310 JPY (2 USD)
5. Yamashita Park
Situated along Yokohama’s waterfront, Yamashita Park offers a refreshing open space where you can admire the breathtaking views of the harbor and the skyline beyond.
Stretching over 750 m (2,460 ft), the park was opened in 1930 as part of the city’s redevelopment efforts following the Great Kanto Earthquake, built on reclaimed land using rubble from the earthquake.
The park is beautifully landscaped, featuring expansive lawns, seasonal flower beds, and tall, shady trees.
You’ll also find at the park, the preserved ship, the Hikawa Maru. Launched in 1929, it was a luxury passenger liner that made regular trips between Yokohama, Seattle, and Vancouver.
Today, it serves as a maritime museum, where you can explore its art deco interiors and learn about its rich history.
Cost: Free
Best Tours in Yokohama
Here are some local tours you can join in Yokohama if you’re looking for an immersive experience:
- Yokohama: Eat Like a Local – eat your way around Yokohama with your host, stopping off at the places that fit your tastes and where locals really eat.
- Yokohama Welcome Tour – explore Yokohama with a knowledgeable local guide. Learn the ins and outs of getting around.
Top Things to Do in Yokohama
1. Make Your Own Noodles at Cup Noodles Museum
Yokohama’s Cup Noodles Museum is a delightfully quirky tribute to Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant ramen and founder of Nissin Food Products.
The museum is a place where you can not only learn about the humble cup noodle’s history. But the star attraction is the My Cupnoodles Factory, where you can create your own original cup noodles.
First, you get to design your own cup. Then, you get to choose your soup from among four varieties and four of the 12 available toppings, resulting in a possible 5,460 flavor combinations.
And the best part? You can take your creation home with you!
Cost: 1,000 JPY (7 USD)
2. Take a Tour at Kirin Beer Factory
Established by Kirin Brewery Company, one of Japan’s most popular beer manufacturers, the factory offers an entertaining tour that takes you through the entire beer-making process, from the selection of ingredients to the packaging.
The free guided tour begins with a short video presentation that introduces the history of Kirin and the basics of beer brewing.
Then, you’re taken through the actual production line, where you get to see first-hand the meticulous brewing process.
But no brewery tour would be complete without a tasting session, and Kirin doesn’t disappoint.
At the end of the tour, you’re treated to a tasting of fresh Kirin beer straight from the factory. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available and are just as tasty!
Cost: Free
3. Shop at Yokohama red Brick Warehouse
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse – or Akarenga Soko, as it’s known locally – is a beloved historical landmark that now serves as a popular shopping and entertainment hub, just like the ones over at Otaru in Hokkaido.
Built in the early 20th century for the Yokohama Port’s customs inspection, the two red-brick buildings, with their distinctive architecture and vintage charm, stand as a symbol of Yokohama’s port history.
They were renovated and reopened in 2002 as multi-purpose facilities that beautifully merge the city’s past and present.
Building No. 1 houses a concert hall and theatre, showcasing a diverse range of performances, from music and dance to theater and art exhibitions, often spotlighting local artists. It also features several stylish restaurants on the top floor, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning harbor views. There are always events happening so be sure to check their website for the latest updates.
Building No. 2 is a shopper’s paradise. It features more than 40 stores selling a curated selection of goods, from fashionable clothing and accessories to home décor and handicrafts. Many of these stores highlight Yokohama’s local crafts and goods, making them perfect for unique, high-quality souvenirs.
Cost: Free
4. Watch a Play at Yokohama Noh Theater
Noh, a traditional form of Japanese theater dating back to the 14th century, is a mix of dance, music, drama, and poetry. And there’s no better place to experience this art form than at the Yokohama Noh Theater.
Established in 2010, this theater was designed with a modern take on traditional architecture, making it a standout landmark in the city.
It’s not just its aesthetics that impress; the theater is also known for its exceptional acoustics, ensuring every word, note, and movement resonates beautifully.
Watching a Noh performance is a unique to say the least – it’s slow-paced, highly stylized, and brimming with symbolism.
The actors, wearing intricately carved masks and splendid costumes, move in a deliberate, dance-like manner, while the narrative is conveyed through chanted dialogue and music.
If you’re new to Noh, don’t worry.
The theater provides English subtitles for selected performances, and introductory programs to help newcomers understand and appreciate the nuances of this art form.
Cost: 14,000 JPY (97 USD)
5. Ride the Sea Bass
Traveling in Yokohama isn’t just about walking or taking the train – it’s also about cruising the city’s waterways.
And one of the best ways to do this is aboard the Sea Bass, a comfortable and convenient water bus that provides a unique perspective of Yokohama’s stunning skyline and landmarks.
The Sea Bass operates four routes that cover some of Yokohama’s most iconic sights.
The most popular is the route between Yokohama Station East Exit and Yamashita Park, which takes you past attractions like the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, the Osanbashi Pier, and the Minato Mirai district.
Pro-tip: Go at night and with the cityscape unfolding before your eyes, it’s a journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Cost: 500 JPY – 700 JPY (3 – 5 USD) depending on the route
6. Get up High at Yokohama Air Cabin
Ready for an exhilarating ride that takes sightseeing to a whole new level? Welcome to the Yokohama Air Cabin.
Japan’s first and the world’s most advanced urban-type circular ropeway offers panoramic views of Yokohama’s magnificent cityscape from an awe-inspiring vantage point.
Opened in 2023, the Yokohama Air Cabin connects Sakuragi-cho Station and Minato Mirai district. The cable car system stretches about 630 m (2000 ft), with 11 round gondolas each capable of carrying up to eight people.
Each air cabin is designed with a 360-degree transparent shell, which means you get uninterrupted views of Yokohama’s key landmarks.
Cost: JPY 1,000 (7 USD) for one way, JPY 1,800 (12 USD) for round trip
Where to Stay in Yokohama
Best Hotels in Yokohama
- Yokohama Tokyu Rei Hotel – provides air-conditioned accommodations with flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, and complimentary WiFi. It’s a 4-star, non-smoking establishment offering round-the-clock front desk services and luggage storage facilities.
- Mitsui Garden Hotel – boasts a fitness center, a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar, along with free WiFi. The hotel provides a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage facilities. The air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with a desk, an electric tea pot, a fridge, a safety deposit box, and a flat-screen TV, and feature private bathrooms with a bidet.
- Intercontinental Yokohama Grand – offers scenic city or bay views from its rooms, accompanied by free WiFi. The rooms are larger than average for the area, equipped with an LCD TV with satellite channels, a private bath, a mini-bar, and round-the-clock room service. The hotel’s amenities feature a health and fitness club with an indoor pool, a sauna, and a workout room, as well as a spa.
Best Hostels in Yokohama
- bnb + Yokohama Motomachi – a capsule hotel that offers a unique and compact lodging experience. Throughout the premises, you can enjoy complimentary WiFi to stay connected, and a shared lounge area where you can unwind and interact with other travelers.
- Hare-Tabi Sauna & Inn – conveniently positioned within a 9-minute walk from Yokohama Marine Tower. The hostel offers a range of amenities including a sauna, a communal lounge, and free WiFi access throughout the property.
- Chillulu Hostel – include air-conditioned rooms with shared bathrooms and free WiFi. The rooms in the hostel come equipped with an electric tea pot and a fridge for your convenience.
How to Get Around Yokohama
Navigating Yokohama is a breeze, thanks to its efficient and well-connected public transportation system, which includes trains, buses, ferries, and even a unique city-wide aerial ropeway. Here’s how you can explore the city:
- Train: The city is served by several rail lines, including the JR East, which connects Yokohama to Tokyo, and the Minatomirai Line that serves the Minato Mirai area.
- Subway: The Yokohama Municipal Subway’s Blue Line is particularly handy, linking central Yokohama with the city’s suburban areas.
- Bus: Buses operate frequently and cover extensive routes across the city. The Akai Kutsu Bus, a sightseeing loop line, is a great way to explore Yokohama’s tourist spots.
- Sea Bass: The water bus is a scenic and enjoyable way to travel between points along the waterfront, such as Yamashita Park and Minato Mirai.
- Yokohama Air Cabin: A ropeway that links Sakuragi-cho Station with the Minato Mirai district.
- Foot: Many of Yokohama’s attractions are concentrated in areas like Minato Mirai and Chinatown, which are quite walkable.
- Bicycle: There are also several spots in Yokohama where you can rent a bicycle for a few hours or a full day.
Best Time to Visit Yokohama
- Spring (March – May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Yokohama. The weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging between 10-20°C (50-68°F). Spring is also the season of cherry blossoms. Parks like Yamashita and Sankeien Garden become beautiful spots to experience “hanami”, the tradition of cherry blossom viewing.
- Summer (June – August): Summers in Yokohama are hot and humid, with temperatures typically ranging between 25-31°C (77-88°F). Despite the heat, summer is a vibrant season in the city, with a plenty of festivals and fireworks. However, June is also the rainy season.
- Autumn (September – November): Autumn is another excellent time to visit Yokohama. The weather is comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15-23°C (59-73°F). The fall foliage in Yokohama is stunning, with red and gold leaves transforming the city’s parks into colorful spectacles.
- Winter (December – February): Winters in Yokohama are cold but not extreme, with temperatures ranging from 2-12°C (36-54°F). It’s less crowded during this season, making it a good time to visit if you prefer quieter exploration. Plus, Yokohama’s winter illuminations are a sight to behold.
Plan Your Trip to Yokohama | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
