Stepping into Yokohama is like stepping into a fusion of timelines. As Japan's second-largest city, Yokohama effortlessly combines the grace of history with the pulse of modernity. Here, traditional gardens nestle just beyond the towering skyscrapers, and quaint shopping streets lead you to bustling, state-of-the-art entertainment complexes. It's a city that has beautifully embraced its past while looking forward to the future.

Originally Yokohama was a small fishing village, but when Japan reopened to the world after a period of national isolation, it became one of the first ports which allowed foreign trade.

From these humble beginnings, it quickly grew with foreigners settling in the Kannai area. For this reason, Yokohama became the first place in Japan for Western fashion to become popular, for an English language newspaper to be published, and more. Even today, it remains a bustling port – the second busiest in Japan and in the top fifty largest seaports in the world.

By Train:
The easiest and most convenient way to get to Yokohama from Tokyo is by train. From Tokyo Station, hop on the JR Tokaido Line or the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line. The journey takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes and will drop you off at Yokohama Station, right in the heart of the city.

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train):
For a super speedy ride, take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Yokohama Station. This will only take about 20 minutes, but do note that Shin-Yokohama Station is a bit further from downtown Yokohama, so you might need a subway ride to reach the city center.

By Subway:
You can also reach Yokohama from Tokyo via the Tokyo Metro's Minatomirai Line. Starting from Shibuya Station, take the Tokyo Toyoko Line to Yokohama Station. The journey should take approximately 30 to 40 minutes.

Yokohama is a destination that is included in the JR Rail Pass, the JR Tokyo Wide Pass, and even the N’EX Round Trip Ticket.

Discover the fun things to do in Yokohama - a hidden gem that's waiting to surprise you at every turn!

Another jewel in the Minto Mirai crown is the iconic Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse which dates back to the early 20th century. This historic structure originally served as a customs inspection center and goods storage area. Through the years, it silently witnessed the growth of Yokohama as a thriving international port.

Today, the Akarenga complex comprises two main buildings — Warehouse Number 1 and Warehouse 2. In 2022, Warehouse 2 underwent a makeover, now housing a delightful mix of eclectic eateries and stylish boutiques.

When it comes to dining at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, you're spoiled for choice. Eat at Shogun Burger, a bento at Kiyoken, or maybe splurge on a romantic meal at Chano-ma. Later scarf down fluffy pancakes at Bills, or bottled desserts at Milk Marche for dessert. Beyond eating and shopping, Warehouse 2 also has a balcony with a harbor view, perfect for people-watching.

Warehouse No 1 serves as a cultural and entertainment hub playing host to artistic shows and performances year around. People flock to this lively attraction in the Yokohama Bay area during colder months to skate in the seasonal ice skating rink.

Tourists often stumble upon the warehouse being drawn by the musical symphonies emerging from the Red Brick Park, where plenty of outdoor events are held throughout the year. The hipster-looking red brick exterior, paired with the scenic azure waterfront, creates a picturesque setting for a short stroll.

When Yokohama opened as an international trade port foreigners started settling in the area of Yamate, not many of their houses survived until today.

But in Harbor View Park you can see some of the oldest ones. This park also has a lovely view of the harbor, which means you can experience the history of the houses, which are open to the public, and take some great pictures of Yokohama City.

Not far from here you can also visit Yokohama Foreign Cemetery where a number of famous westerners were buried; including one of the first westerners to be buried here in 1854 after Japan ended its national isolation.

Japan’s reopening to the world also attracted many Chinese people to Yokohama City, who started settling in the area of Chinatown in the 1850s.

Today, Yokohama Chinatown is famous for the more than 500 restaurants found within the four gates that make up the entrances to Chinatown, at the center of which Kanteibyo, a temple built in 1873 and dedicated to business and prosperity, can be found.

You can choose anything from going into one of the many restaurants offering all-you-can-eat, to simply checking the market stalls and what they have to offer. It is a real culinary treat and among some of the best things to do in Yokohama!

Stepping into the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Cultural History feels like stepping into a time machine. This Important Cultural Property of Japan is nestled within a stone's throw from Bashamichi Station on the Minato Mirai Line, and a leisurely stroll away from various lines at Kannai Station. This historical marvel, built in 1904 as the central branch of Yokohama Specie Bank, now serves as a treasure chest of Japanese history and culture.

Each era unfolds as you navigate through the exhibitions. Be prepared to travel from ancient times with stone tools and pottery, to the vibrant Edo period, represented by ukiyo-e (woodblock prints). These prints tell vivid stories of the foreign residents of Yokohama after the Port opened its welcoming arms to the world.

The museum breathes life into Yokohama's past, showcasing special exhibitions throughout the year. These encapsulate the evolution of Yokohama's urban landscape and the lives of its people, offering a glimpse into the city's changing face over the centuries.

But the journey doesn't end there. The ground floor hosts a library for those hungry for more knowledge, a museum shop selling picture books and original merchandise inspired by the museum's collections, and a cozy cafe to sit back and digest the richness of your historical journey.

The Yokohama Museum of Art, an iconic symbol in the heart of the Minato Mirai 21 district, is a gateway to an immersive art experience. A quick 3-minute stroll from Minato Mirai Station or a 10-minute walk from Sakuragicho Station will transport you to its grand main entrance. Here, a majestic 20-meter-high open ceiling adorned with granite tiles ushers you into a world of artistic brilliance.

Boasting a collection of over 10,000 art pieces spanning from the late 19th century to contemporary times, the museum is a melting pot of Japanese and international art. Masterpieces from luminary artists like Dali, Magritte, Cezanne, and Picasso are ready to inspire and fascinate you. The carefully curated permanent exhibitions unravel a narrative, categorizing artworks by themes and enhancing your understanding of the artists' intent.

In addition to the splendid art collections, the museum houses an art information and media center. This rich resource of over 110,000 art-related books and 580 images offers deep dives into the art world at no additional cost.

Fancy taking a piece of this artistic experience home? The museum shop, accessible without an admission ticket, awaits with unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect mementos of your artistic journey or thoughtful presents for your loved ones.

Opened to the public for the first time in 1906, Sankeien Garden was designed as a traditional Japanese garden. The expansive grounds include 17 old buildings that were moved and reconstructed from places such as Kyoto and Kamakura, making it a delightful place to visit in Yokohama for architecture lovers.

As just a traditional Japanese garden, it is beautiful in itself, but the fact that as you wander through it you can come across impressive historical structures is awe-inspiring. Discover the Shunsoro, or tea room, which is believed to have been built for Oda Nobunaga’s brother Oda Urakusai, or the Gekkaden, or guest house, which was built in 1603 for none other than Tokugawa Ieyasu.

The business district of Minato Mirai is very photogenic and receives tens of millions of visitors every year. In particular, the skyline is beautiful, and there is any number of places from which you can really appreciate it including but not limited to the Ferris wheel in Cosmo World Amusement Park, Kishamichi Promenade, and Yokohama Landmark Tower.

One of the joys of this area is that it is very pretty during the day, but absolutely gorgeous at night, and there is no better place to appreciate the view than from the observation deck of the Yokohama Landmark Tower. It is among the tallest buildings in Japan and on a very clear day it is even possible to see Mount Fuji.

Built back in 1894, the structure has seen its fair share of history - from expansions, to restorations after the devastating 1923 Great Kanto earthquake, to being commandeered by U.S. forces. In 2002, it received a facelift and emerged as an international terminal that Japan proudly shows off to the world. It's equipped to host up to four passenger liners of 30,000 tons, or two if they're larger.

But it's not just functional - a lot of thought has been put into its aesthetic appeal too. The terminal building's interior and exterior designs have been carefully curated. Its rooftop, gently undulating like a calm sea, embodies the design concept of "a garden port."

Here, visitors can unwind in the wooden deck area or the green lawn, or feast their eyes on a panoramic view of Yokohama. Inside, the second floor boasts a vast, pillar-free space, housing a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, adding a dash of convenience and comfort to the mix.

The street of Motomachi, which is close to Yamate, was a shopping street for the foreigners living in Yokohama. Today it hasn’t retained those original Western shops, but it still has a Western feel. It is really delightful to walk around, browse the shops and cafes, and perhaps try to recapture how those foreigners felt visiting Japan for the first time 150 years ago. It's among the any list of things to do in Yokohama.

Ready to splurge a little and indulge in some retail therapy in Yokohama? Known for its eclectic mix of traditional markets, modern shopping centers, and unique boutiques, Yokohama offers an unforgettable shopping experience. From designer labels to local crafts, you're sure to find something that catches your eye! Some of the popular areas include:

・Yokohama Motomachi Shopping Street: Begin with a stroll down the famous Motomachi Shopping Street. With its blend of local boutiques and international brands, it's a shopping paradise for both locals and tourists.

・Red Brick Warehouse: You can't miss the iconic Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. This historic building is now home to a wide variety of unique shops offering everything from fashion to home decor and novelty items.

・Minato Mirai: Next, head to the Minato Mirai area. It's a modern hub with towering skyscrapers and several shopping centers, like Yokohama World Porters, Landmark Plaza, and Queen's Square Yokohama. You'll find a mix of high-end brands, local boutiques, and even some entertainment facilities.

・Chinatown: For more eclectic finds, make your way to Yokohama's Chinatown. It's the largest Chinatown in Japan and offers a variety of goods and souvenirs, including Chinese-inspired merchandise.

・Yokohama Station Area: If you're after the complete package - food, shopping, and entertainment - then the area around Yokohama Station is your place. Shopping complexes like Yokohama Bay Quarter, Yokohama Porta, Yokohama Vivre, Sogo Yokohama, Yokohama More's and Lumine Yokohama offer everything from fashion, cosmetics, to gadget shops and electronics shops like BicCamera.

・Local Markets: Don't forget Yokohama's local markets, such as the Yokohama City Central Wholesale Market. Here you can buy fresh seafood and produce, as well as taste some local food.

・Outlets: Just outside downtown Yokohama is Mitsui Outlet Park Yokohama Bayside, a prime spot for bargains. (And you can even save more with a discount coupon from LIVE JAPAN!)

Another culinary delight of Yokohama Japan which is not to be missed is the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, which should be on any list of things to do in Yokohama. In recent years ramen has spread in popularity across the world. And in a way, this museum almost anticipated this as it only opened just over twenty years ago.

Inside the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, there is an unbelievable replica of the streets and buildings of Shitamachi in 1958. This old area of Tokyo was popular for ramen, and you can believe you have been almost transported back in time as you step into one of the restaurants for a delicious bowl of ramen.

After a day of exploring Yokohama, treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at the Minato Mirai Manyo Club. This popular hot spring and wellness resort offers both indoor and outdoor baths, each with unique healing properties. Upon arrival, you'll be provided with a yukata (for females) or jinbei (for males) to wear in designated areas.

This 24-hour relaxing bathhouse has separate sections for men and women. Any stress, worries, or soreness will dissolve, as soon as you step into its steaming hot waters, leaving you refreshed.

For a more serene experience, consider visiting on a clear weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the onsen all to yourself. You may even catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Fuji from the outdoor bath.

Manyo Club also offers massage services and has on-site izakayas (Japanese pubs), an arcade, and vending machines for your convenience. Guests can opt for an overnight stay for an extra fee or simply enjoy a day trip to this rejuvenating retreat.

This is perhaps a more unusual recommendation of things to do in Yokohama, as many tourists don’t think about seeing baseball when they visit Japan. But it is really fun to go see a game. Baseball has been played in Japan for over a hundred years and is today a professional sport.

The Yokohama DeNA Baystars are based at Yokohama Stadium which has a capacity of 30,000 people and is one of only three stadiums that is based on an American version of a baseball stadium.

For anyone who has never seen a baseball game in Japan, and for anyone who does enjoy a good baseball game, this one of the must-dos for Yokohama.

Standing tall as one of Japan's biggest arenas, International Stadium Yokohama (also known as Nissan Stadium), can accommodate a staggering 70,000 spectators. It has hosted many momentous events, including the final match of the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and notably, it was the backdrop for the epic showdown of the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals.

Cosmo World is a highly popular amusement park located in Yokohama, also nestled in the Minato Mirai 21 area. With its wide array of thrilling rides and attractions suitable for all ages, it guarantees a full day of family fun. From lightning-fast rollercoasters to classic carnival-style booth games, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The best part is, there's no entrance fee, and each ride costs between 300 to 800 yen.

Want to feel the adrenaline rush of riding one of the tallest — Guinness book certified — Ferris wheels in the world? Now's your chance. A 15-ride on the Cosmo Clock 21 provides stunning views of the city and the sprawling Yokohama Bay. And if you're on a romantic getaway, a nighttime ride on the Cosmo Clock 21 is a must. The post-sunset illuminations create a beautiful and memorable sight to share with your special someone.

Zoorasia is one of the largest zoos in Japan with seven ecological areas, and lots of animals waiting to be seen ranging from cute little Red Pandas to Indian Elephants. In particular, it is a great place for families, but with restaurants and regular events, it can be enjoyed by anyone.

As it is quite big and it isn’t so close to the center of Yokohama Japan (about 1 hour away), it is more recommended for a day out.

It will come as no surprise, being a port and all, that another very popular thing to do in Yokohama is to take a cruise! While there are different cruise operators, one of the most accessible is directly in front of Yamashita Park. There are different kinds of cruises, including short ones and dinner ones, as well as day cruises and night cruises.

Regardless of which option you choose, you will be able to enjoy the famous skyline of Yokohama!

Hovering above the cityscapes, a ride on the Yokohama Air Cabin offers an exceptional aerial adventure. Experience Yokohama from a whole new perspective during this 5-minute circuit ropeway, covering 630 meters and reaching its highest peak at 40 meters.

The Air Cabin offers rewarding panoramic views of the entire city and a convenient link between Sakuragicho station and Unga Park. This seamless connection provides easy access to several prominent attractions, including the Noodle Cup Museum, Cosmo World, Hammerhead (a seafront complex), and Yokohama World Porters—a huge shopping mall.

Drifting aboard the spacious cabin is especially magical at sunset. Witness the blazing vermillion hues transform to gradients of purple and pink, gradually dissolving into the darkness. For a stunning 360-degree view of the glimmering city lights, consider climbing the gondolas on one of the last rides of the day between 8-9 pm.

Yokohama Anpanman Children's Museum is a haven for fans of the beloved Japanese anime and Manga series "Anpanman." This whimsical museum is adored by children not just in Japan but from all over the world.

The first floor of the museum is free to enter and houses adorable Anpanman-themed restaurants and shops. Don't miss the bakery selling Anpanman character bread and the food court with its Anpanman-themed treats.

For the main attraction, head to the ticketed area on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Here, you'll find interactive exhibits and adorable displays that will captivate little ones, even if they're not familiar with the character. Children can explore the colorful world of Anpanman and his friends, check out character dioramas, and try their hand at crafts. There’s even a stage where children can meet Anpanman and other characters from the show.
Adults wishing to rekindle their childhood will want to pay homage to the author Takashi Yanase at the memorial in the museum.

During summer, the wet zone offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Remember to bring an extra set of clothes and a towel for the young ones. Otherwise, if you prefer to buy a new outfit on-site, expect to pay anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 yen.

The Gundam Factory’s meticulously designed life-sized Gundam — An 18-meter towering robot — leaves visitors speechless. Since its opening on December 19, 2020, this long-awaited attraction has seen fans of the franchise make the trip from not only around the country but across continents to see the large-scale figurine. The giant moves every hour, so time your visit during the "startup experiment".

Beyond marveling at the colossal mecha, visitors can enjoy a Gundam-themed cafe, browse through gift shops with merchandise, and explore interactive exhibits. The Lab provides a fascinating space to learn about the technical work and engineering skills behind the creation of this impressive Gundam.

Die-hard fans will be happy to know that it's possible to see the Gundam at a very close range by purchasing a separate ticket to the Gundam Dock Tower.

Hakkeijima Sea Paradise seamlessly blends the enchantment of aquariums with the heart-pumping action of theme parks. Located on an island just 30 minutes by train from downtown Yokohama, it is one of Japan's most visited amusement parks for a good reason.

This innovative theme park perched on the shore of Yokohama Bay boasts an extraordinary aquarium, Aqua Resorts, featuring Aqua Museum, Dolphin Fantasy, Fureai Lagoon, and Umi Farm. Each section gives visitors an up-close encounter with fascinating marine life such as walruses, dolphins, and even polar bears, and entertaining daily shows where animals and humans communicate beyond barriers.

Pleasure Land is the island's amusement park. Within it, an array of exhilarating amusement rides await. Unmissable attractions include Blue Fall, the daring Surf Coaster with its sea loop, and a charming Merry-go-round that lights up after sunset.

With its impressive marine life, thrilling rides, arcade games, gourmet eateries, and souvenir shops, Hakkeijima Sea Paradise promises a fun-filled and educational experience.

Dive into the fascinating world of instant ramen at the Cup Noodles Museum, celebrating the legacy of Momofuku Ando - the genius behind Nissin Foods and the first-ever instant Chicken Ramen. Not only can you trace his inspiring journey, but you can also create your own one-of-a-kind Cup Noodles - from designing the cup to selecting your favored soup and toppings (numbered or user ticket necessary).

Delve deeper into the instant ramen chronicles by admiring over 3,000 distinct package designs, or catch an animated film about Mr. Ando's life. With audio guides available in English, Chinese, and Korean, everyone can enjoy the theater experience.

And the journey doesn't end there. Taste noodle variations from around the globe and peruse the museum shop for some souvenirs.

If you find yourself in Yokohama downtown in early January, don't miss the Lunar New Year festival celebrated in Yokohama's Chinatown. Though Lunar New Year isn't traditionally significant in Japanese culture, the large Chinese community in Chinatown ensures vibrant festivities and traditions. Witness the lively parade with Chinese Lions roaming the streets while people donning traditional Chinese clothes parading for the festive goers, live music fills the air, and the aroma of fresh dumplings and spring rolls abound.

The night culminates with a spectacular display of firecrackers, and often lanterns are released to symbolize chasing away darkness and bringing hope in the coming year. Attending the Lunar New Year festival in Yokohama's Chinatown is an experience not to be missed, offering a taste of Chinese culture and celebration in Japan.

Yokohama has been home to a variety of Pokémon-themed events in past summers, with the Pikachu Outbreak being particularly popular. From August 8 to 14, 2023, there are a number of themed events occurring, from Pokémon-themed parades to live shows. For details, see the article below.

If you happen to be in Japan during August then you absolutely have to see the Kanagawa Shimbun Fireworks Festival, it is one of the largest fireworks displays in Japan, as well as a great opportunity to see Japanese people wearing traditional clothes, the yukata, and enjoying all kinds of street foods.

The fireworks are really massive and impressive, and there is nothing better than to be eating some yakitori from a stall along with a beer and enjoy the display.

During the winter season (November & December) Yokohama comes alive. Stunning illuminations transform the streets into a magical wonderland. The Yokohama Illumination is a spectacular event where different areas of the city are adorned with dazzling lights and decorations.

The popular illumination spots in Yokohama include Minato Mirai, where the iconic Red Brick Warehouse and Landmark Tower are beautifully illuminated. The Yamashita Park Illumination showcases the park's idyllic landscape, decorated with fairy lights, creating an otherworldly sight.