Start planning your trip
{{ inputValue.start }} - {{ inputValue.end }}
With:
Yokohama: Top 25 Things to Do in the Famous Port City Near Tokyo
This service includes sponsored advertisements.
Yokohama is a bustling port city just 30 minutes by train from Tokyo. Here are our top 25 things to do and see in Yokohama, from scenic Minato Mirai and Cosmo World to the newly opened Yokohama Air Cabin.
Latest update :
Yokohama: History and Top Sights
Photo by Pixta
Yokohama, located in close proximity to Tokyo in Kanagawa Prefecture, has a rich history as one of Japan's prominent international port towns. After years of national self-isolation during the Edo period (1603-1868), Yokohama became one of the first trading posts to open its doors to foreign trade in 1859 and quickly became a hub for international commerce. Today, the city has a population of almost four million people and offers an exciting mix of contemporary and traditional attractions for visitors to enjoy.
One of Yokohama's prominent attractions is its Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in Japan, where visitors can indulge in delicious Chinese cuisine and explore the colorful streets lined with traditional Chinese architecture. The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, a former customs building turned shopping complex, is another popular attraction offering various dining options and specialty stores.
For those interested in modern architecture and cityscapes, the futuristic Minato Mirai 21 is a must-visit destination, boasting towering skyscrapers and stunning views of Yokohama Bay. Since 2021, visitors can enjoy the city views from the Yokohama Air Cabin, the first urban ropeway in Japan.
Top 25 Things to Do in Yokohama
1. Yokohama Chinatown
2. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
3. Minato Mirai 21
4. Yokohama Air Cabin
5. Yokohama Landmark Tower
6. Yokohama Cosmo World
7. Sea Bass: Water Bus and Cruises
8. Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal
9. Hakkeijima Sea Paradise
Gardens and Parks
10. Sankeien Garden
11. Yamate and Motomachi Neighbourhoods
12. Yamashita Park
Museums and Culture
13. Yokohama Port Museum and Nippon Maru
14. Cup Noodle Museum
15. Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
16. Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum
17. Hara Model Railway Museum
18. Yokohama Museum of Art
19. Yokohama Noh Theater
20. Kirin Beer Factory
21. Yokohama Stadium
22. Zoorasia
Shopping and Leisure
23. Shopping in Yokohama
24. Yokohamabashi Shopping District
25. Manyo Club
Yokohama Festivals and Events
1. Yokohama Chinatown
Photo by Pixta
Yokohama Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in Japan, was first established in 1859, initially home to a small group of Chinese traders who settled in the area. Over time, it grew to become the largest Chinatown in Asia, with over 200 restaurants, food stands, and other establishments offering flavorful and delicious Chinese cuisine.
Visitors walking along the streets of Chinatown will discover many mouthwatering options, including vendors selling steamed buns and restaurants with dim sum and Sichuan cuisine.
Yokohama Chinatown is near JR Ishikawacho Station or Motomachi-Chinatown Station via the Minato Mirai Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
2. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
Photo by Pixta
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse consists of two elegant warehouses that were once a part of Yokohama’s shipping hub during the end of the Meiji era (1868-1912) and into the Taisho era (1912-1926).
Today, the iconic red brick warehouses are popular spaces hosting outdoor festivals and weekend markets, with plenty of shopping and dining options to find inside. This popular place is a great family or date spot where visitors can browse through shops selling clothing, accessories, stationery, and crafts or stop at various dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market. Photo by Pixta
Every year in December, this area hosts the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market with beautiful light-ups, a Christmas tree, and special events.
To reach the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, catch the Akai Kutsu sightseeing bus from JR Sakuragicho Station to the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse stop, or get off at Motomachi Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line from Yokohama Station.
↑ Return to the top of article.
3. Minato Mirai 21
Photo by Pixta
Minato Mirai 21 is a futuristic urban waterfront development known for its unparalleled shopping, amusement park, museums, and parks. Shoppers can indulge in retail therapy at the Landmark Plaza or explore the numerous shops and boutiques at Queen's Square Yokohama.
It's not just about shopping — Minato Mirai 21 also boasts several museums and parks, including the nearby Yamashita Park. For panoramic views of Yokohama City, ride the world's largest Ferris wheel, the Cosmo Clock 21, or stroll along the waterfront promenade.
To get around the area, hop on the Akai Kutsu sightseeing bus at Sakuragicho Station or take the convenient Minato Mirai line to the Minato Mirai Station from Yokohama Station.
↑ Return to the top of article.
4. Yokohama Air Cabin
Photo by Pixta
The Yokohama Air Cabin is a state-of-the-art ropeway that offers visitors a unique and thrilling way to explore the city from above. First opened in 2021, this is Japan’s first-ever urban gondola.
The Yokohama Air Cabin’s transparent capsules carry passengers 40 meters above Minato Mirai, past the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, and other notable Yokohama attractions, for a bird's eye view of the city that simply can't be matched on foot or by car.
Photo by Pixta
There are two stations where you can board the Yokohama Air Cabin: Sakuragi-cho Station and Unga Park Station (a 7-minute walk from Exit no. 4 (Bankokubashi Exit) of Bashamichi Station on the Minatomirai Line).
One-way tickets are 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children, while round-trip tickets are 1,800 yen for adults and 900 yen for children. Set tickets that include a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel Cosmo Clock 21 are also available. For details, please visit the Yokohama Air Cabin official website.
↑ Return to the top of article.
5. Yokohama Landmark Tower
Photo by Pixta
The Yokohama Landmark Tower is an iconic fixture of the Yokohama skyline, towering nearly 300 meters high and ranking among the tallest structures in the country. Situated in the Minato Mirai 21 district, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the iconic Yokohama cityscape, Tokyo Bay, and even Mt. Fuji on clear days from the 69th-floor Sky Garden Observatory.
In the evenings, the observatory has one of the best nighttime views of Yokohama's cityscape, making it a lovely spot to spend a romantic evening with your loved one.
To prolong your luxurious viewing experiences, the Yokohama Royal Park Hotel is located on the 52nd floor and up, with each suite featuring stunning city views. One can easily reach the Landmark Tower by walking from JR Sakuragicho Station or Minato Mirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line from Yokohama Station.
↑ Return to the top of article.
6. Yokohama Cosmo World
Photo by Pixta
Yokohama Cosmo World is an amusement park with many exciting activities, including theme park rides, a game arcade, a fairground stall area, and a food court. The park's Cosmo Clock 21, a giant Ferris wheel, is particularly famous for its stunning LED light display every night.
With rides suitable for young children or thrill-seekers who enjoy heart-stopping rides, this theme park and its surrounding area have everything you need for a fun-filled family day trip.
Admission to the park is free, and you only pay for the rides and games you want to ride or play. To get to Yokohama Cosmo World, you can take a short walk from the Minato Mirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line from Yokohama Station.
↑ Return to the top of article.
7. Yokohama Sea Bass: Water Bus and Cruise
Yokohama Sea Bass Bay Quarter Platform at Yokohama Station East Exit. Photo by Pixta
The Yokohama Sea Bass is a popular water transportation service that takes passengers on a scenic route between Yokohama Station and Yamashita Park.
* The service has been named after the sea bass fish because the main departure harbor, Bay Quarter Yokohama, is located at the mouth of a river; the ships travel by both ocean and river water just like the bass.
The water bus service is a simple ride that takes you from Yokohama Station's Bay Quarter to Yokohama Hammerhead in Minato Mirai for 700 yen (children 350 yen), the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse for 800 yen (400 yen), or Yamashita Park (*1) for 1,000 yen (children 500 yen).
The tickets for the water bus can be purchased right before departure. The bus operates 12 times/ day on weekdays and 19 times/day on weekends and holidays. For more information, please visit the official website of Yokohama Station.
As of June 2023, the Sea Bass platform in Yamashita Park is temporarily closed for renovations.
Pukarisanbashi Pier Sea Bass Platform. Photo by Pixta
Yokohama Sea Bass also offers 60-minute cruises focusing on famous Yokohama night view spots. The ship stops along the way at the most photogenic locations so that participants can take pictures of the views. A knowledgeable guide offers information about each of the highlights.
The Yokohama Minato Mirai Illumination Cruise (Japanese) costs 3,000 yen for adults and 2,000 for children; the ship departs every day at 19:30 from the Bay Quarter Yokohama platform.
The Kawasaki Factory Night View Cruise (Japanese) departs twice every evening at 17:10 and 19:00. This ride takes one hour and a half, and costs 4,500 yen for adults and 3,000 yen for children.
For a more elevated experience, there is the Marine Rouge cruise (Japanese), which includes refined French cuisine menus for the afternoon, lunch, dinner, and twilight. Visitors can enjoy this cruise with a loved one for a romantic night of dining over the Yokohama port waters.
↑ Return to the top of article.
8. Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal
Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is a stunning ship terminal that offers much more than just a place to board and disembark from your cruise ship.
Located on Yokohama Bay, Osanbashi (for short) is a hub of activity, with an artistically constructed deck with breathtaking views of the city skyline and ocean. Visitors can take in the sights from one of the many observation decks or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade.
The nearest train station is Nihon-Odori Station on the Minato Mirai Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
9. Hakkeijima Sea Paradise
Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is an amusement park and aquarium complex offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The highlights are the massive main tank, which features whale sharks and manta rays swimming gracefully, and the arch-shaped tank, Dolphin Fantasy, as dolphins and other fish swim above the visitors.
Hakkeijima Sea Paradise also boasts exciting rides for thrill-seekers, including roller coasters and water attractions. When you're ready to take a break from all the excitement, plenty of restaurants serve delicious meals.
Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is located in southern Yokohama and is closest to the Hakkeijima Station via the Seaside Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
11. Sankeien Garden
Photo by Pixta
Sankeien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden once owned by Sankei Hara, a wealthy businessman. Since opening to the public in 1904, Sankeien Garden has become celebrated for its seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to azaleas and irises in summer, fall colors in autumn, and plum blossoms in late winter.
The garden is home to several historically significant structures, including tea houses, a feudal lord's residence, and a three-storied pagoda, all seamlessly blending into the 175,000 square meters of garden grounds.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the wonders of this enchanting garden conveniently located south of Yokohama, just a 30-minute bus ride from Chinatown and Motomachi. Pamphlets with information on the garden's history and highlights are available in various languages.
↑ Return to the top of article.
12. Yamate and Motomachi Districts
Photo by Pixta
Yamate and Motomachi are two districts where you can witness Yokohama’s history as an international port preserved in their architecture. These historical areas were once home to foreign merchants and diplomats during the late 19th century, giving this neighborhood a distinctive Western-style appearance that visitors can still appreciate.
The Yamate district is wonderful for its hillside strolls past early 20th-century mansions, neatly pruned English-style gardens, and Yokohama Bay Bridge views from Harbor View Park’s rose garden.
The Motomachi district runs north to Yamate, with the Motomachi Shopping Street, a five-block stretch of boutiques, shops, and restaurants with a European atmosphere.
Both neighborhoods are easily accessible from JR Ishikawacho Station or JR Yamate Station and are very pedestrian-friendly.
↑ Return to the top of article.
13. Yamashita Park
Photo by Pixta
Located by the ocean, Yamashita Park offers a stunning view of Yokohama's harbors and Yokohama Bay Bridge. It's a popular spot for visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls by the bay or for families to relax on the grassy lawns, providing a relaxing and peaceful respite from the busier areas in Minato Mirai 21. I
In the park's center is a rose garden with flowers that bloom in the spring and autumn.
Yamashita Park is conveniently situated between the Minato Mirai 21, Chinatown, and Motomachi neighborhoods, making it easily accessible for anyone exploring the city on foot. The nearest train station is Nihon-Odori Station on the Minato Mirai Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
14. Yokohama Port Museum and Nipponmaru
Photo by Pixta
Yokohama Port Museum takes visitors on a journey through Yokohama's past as a thriving port town, with interactive exhibits and displays to showcase the evolution of the city's port industry.
One of the museum's main attractions is the Nipponmaru, a beautifully restored sailing ship that once served as a training vessel for Japanese naval cadets. The museum also has a collection of historical artifacts and models that give visitors an up-close look at ships and other vessels that played important roles in Yokohama's maritime history and learn about the history of trade and commerce in Yokohama.
Yokohama Port Museum is a short walk from JR Sakuragicho Station on the local Negishi Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
15. Cup Noodle Museum
The Cup Noodle Museum in the Minato Mirai 21 district is a museum that offers visitors an interactive experience where they can learn about the history of cup noodles and even create their own custom cup noodle flavors.
One of the main attractions at the museum is the Chicken Ramen Factory, where visitors can make their own chicken ramen noodles from scratch. Another popular activity at the Cup Noodle Museum is the My CUPNOODLES Factory, where guests can design their own cup noodles by choosing their favorite soup flavor and toppings, decorating their cup with markers or stickers before sealing it up, and taking it home as a souvenir.
The Cup Noodle Museum is accessed most quickly from Minato Mirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line from Yokohama Station.
↑ Return to the top of article.
16. Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum offers ramen enthusiasts an opportunity to learn about the history and development of one of Japan’s signature gourmet dishes. The first floor features an informative exhibit about the history of this noodle dish from China up to the popularity of instant noodles in Japan.
Visitors can also step into a replica Showa-era (1926-1989) street in the museum’s two basement levels, with music, retro storefronts, and nine ramen restaurants to savor different ramen dishes.
Reach the museum via the JR Shin-Yokohama Station or the Shin-Yokohama Station on the Yokohama Municipal Blue Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
17. Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum
At the Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum, children can meet the characters of Anpanman, a popular children’s television character, via interactive exhibits, classroom workshops, and live performances. This long-running anime series first made its television appearance in 1988. Anpanman has become a popular hero with children in Japan.
The facility has a shoes-free play area with toys gentle enough for infants and toddlers; Anpanman-themed food and freshly-baked bread can also be enjoyed inside the museum.
The nearest station is the Shin-Takashima Station on the Minato Mirai Line and Takashimacho Station on the Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
18. Hara Model Railway Museum
The Hara Model Railway Museum is an impressive collection of model trains and model train accessories from around the world, started by a private curator who collected over 6,000 trains in his lifetime. The museum features these models and elaborate railway dioramas recreating cityscapes and towns, providing entertainment to children and adults.
Exit from JR Yokohama Station or Shin-Takashima Station on the Minato Mirai Line to the museum.
↑ Return to the top of article.
19. Yokohama Museum of Art
Picture from Yokohama Triennale: An Amazing Art Festival Held Every 3 Years
*The Yokohama Museum of Art is currently closed for renovations and will reopen on March 14, 2024.
The Yokohama Museum of Art is a world-class museum with seven spacious gallery spaces and various art facilities for public workshops and events. Located in the scenic Minato Mirai 21 area, this museum established in 1987 showcases contemporary and modern art from all around the world since the 19th century.
The museum's architecture alone is worth seeing, with its sleek and contemporary design perfectly complementing the stunning works on display. Inside, visitors can explore the various exhibitions showcasing everything from paintings to sculptures to photography from Japanese and international artists.
The museum is a short and convenient walk from Minato Mirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
20. Yokohama Noh Theater
Yokohama Noh Theater has been used for over 140 years for Noh, a traditional Japanese theater, making it the oldest-remaining Noh theater in eastern Japan. Guests can watch traditional Japanese Noh theater and Kyogen, a comedic performance that takes place on the same stage.
In addition to enjoying the performances, the theater's second floor contains rare displays of props and objects used in Noh theater, offering visitors a fulfilling educational and cultural experience.
Catch the bus from Yokohama Station to Yukimi Bashi bus stop, where Yokohama Noh Theater is just a short walk away.
↑ Return to the top of article.
21. Kirin Beer Factory
Take a guided tour through the Kirin Beer Factory, one of Japan's most popular beer breweries, for an inside look into the world of this top beer brand.
Yokohama is Kirin's birthplace and has been leading in promoting beer culture in Japan since its introduction. Visitors can take brewery tours to learn about the ingredients used in making Kirin beer and the brewing process before enjoying beer tasting of some of the finest Kirin brews.
Kirin Beer Factory is a short walk from Namamugi Station on the Keikyu Main Line.
22. Yokohama Stadium
Photo by Pixta
The Yokohama Stadium is the home of the Yokohama DeNA Bay Stars, one of Japan's most popular baseball teams and a must-visit destination for those looking to take in a baseball game in Japan.
The stadium has a seating capacity of 30,000, with state-of-the-art facilities, including comfortable seating arrangements, multiple video screens for replays and highlights, and excellent sound systems. Best of all, visitors can join in with passionate fans cheering for their team.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office on game days. Visitors can get off Kannai Station, a short train ride from Yokohama Station, to reach Yokohama Station.
↑ Return to the top of article.
23. Zoorasia
Photo by Pixta
Zoorasia is considered one of Japan’s best zoos, known for its spacious enclosures that mimic the animal’s natural habitat.
The zoo is divided into eight climate zones — the Asian Tropical Forest, Amazon Jungle, African Tropical Rainforest, African Savannah, Subarctic Forest, Oceanian Grassland, Central Asian Highland, and Japanese Countryside. The diverse range of animals includes Indian elephants, tigers, orangutans, penguins, polar bears, and red pandas.
Zoorasia is located just outside Yokohama city limits and most easily reached via the Sotetsu Railway from Yokohama Station or by bus from Nakayama Station along the JR Yokohama Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
23. Shopping in Yokohama
Yokohama offers countless shopping facilities for every type of need and budget. If you're looking for the latest fashion trends, Yokohama Landmark Plaza and Yokohama Hammerhead will not disappoint.
Yokohama World Porters, a shopping center in Minato Mirai, offers quality products, from clothing to home goods, at reasonable prices.
Moreover, the buildings of major transportation hubs such as Yokohama Station and Sakuragicho Station are home to excellent shopping malls complete with food courts and dining facilities.
24. Yokohamabashi Shopping District
Photo by Pixta
Yokohamabashi Shopping District is a local shopping arcade with a rich history dating back to World War II and is now a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The 350-meter-long arcade is a throwback to retro Japan, with over 135 stores selling everything from traditional Japanese crafts to modern fashion. What sets the Yokohamabashi Shotengai apart from other shopping streets is its incredible street food scene, featuring popular dishes like karaage (Japanese fried chicken) and other Japanese home-style cooking offered at reasonable prices.
Yokohamabashi Shopping District is located closest to Bandobashi Station on the Yokohama Municipal Station on the Blue Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
25. Manyo Club
Manyo Club is a hot springs facility in the heart of the city. Guests can enjoy natural hot spring water transported from renowned hot onsen in Japan such as Yugawara in southern Kanagawa Prefecture and Atami in Shizuoka Prefecture.
The convenient location and high quality of the hot spring water at Manyo Club make this a popular destination for visitors and an ideal spot to relax after a day of sightseeing and walking around in Yokohama.
Manyo Club is easily accessible via Minato Mirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line.
↑ Return to the top of article.
Yokohama Festivals and Events
Yokohama is well-known for its vibrant and exciting festivals and events, attracting locals and tourists alike to celebrate annual festivities filled with fun, food, and cultural experiences.
Chinese Spring Festival
The Chinese Spring Festival celebrates the Chinese Lunar New Year in a special multi-day event in and around Yokohama’s Chinatown. The area is decorated with beautiful ornamentation and events centered around traditional Chinese performances, including dragon and lion dances.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
During the weekend of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the streets of Motomachi are painted green, with live music and traditional folk dances that create a fun and festive atmosphere.
Pikachu Outbreak
In August, bright yellow Pikachu fill Yokohama during the Pikachu Outbreak. This adorable parade has a different theme each year, and various events help onlookers enjoy the stifling hot summer.
In 2023, a special Pokémon dance parade was held on August 14 featuring Pikachu, Sprigatito, Fuecoco, Quaxly, and other Pokemon. This will be the closing event of the 2023 Pokémon Worlds Celebration in Yokohama. For details, please visit the official website of the Pokemon Company.
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is regularly held in autumn at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, lasting around two weeks and offering visitors a taste of traditional food and fare from Germany.
Winter Holiday Illuminations
During November and December, the areas around Minato Mirai and Yokohama Station are lit up for the Winter Holiday Illuminations with elaborate, colorful illuminations and seasonally-themed shapes and symbols.
Also, one of the greatest Christmas Markets in Japan is being held Yokohama's Re-Brick Warehouses each year.
Read also
↑ Return to the top of article.
Discover What Yokohama Has to Offer
Located by the sea, Yokohama offers entertainment, splendid scenery, and facilities that cannot be found in Tokyo, making this an ideal stop for a fulfilling and memorable trip to Japan. Come for a day trip or longer and take the time to explore Yokohama!
Read also
Main image by Pixta
Written by
Lives in Kanagawa Prefecture. I am a writer who pursues good old Japanese spots and things, regardless of genre. I enjoy traveling with themes such as shrines and temples, hot springs, long-established bars, and vehicles such as trains. Other than traveling, my hobbies include drinking alcohol, watching sumo, art, and reading.
Top Articles
There are no articles in this section.
Related Article
Special Features
More
