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At the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, history meets modern Yokohama through Meiji-era architecture, lively shops and cafés, seasonal festivals, and stunning bay views.
A Historic Landmark Reimagined
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is one of the city’s most recognizable sights along the bay. These bold red buildings date back to the early 1900s, when Japan was rapidly modernizing. They originally served as customs inspection houses and warehouses, supporting international trade at Yokohama Port.
The warehouses were built on Shinko Island, land reclaimed from the bay during the Meiji and Taisho eras. After serving their purpose for decades, they were preserved and revitalized in the 2000s as part of the city’s waterfront redevelopment. Today, they stand as a great example of industrial architecture reborn into a lively cultural hub.
Exploring the Two Warehouses
Warehouse No. 2 – Shopping, Dining, and Bay Views
We spent most of our time in the larger building, which is filled with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Shops sell everything from Japanese ceramics and interior goods to stylish fashion and souvenirs.
One of our favorite stops was Chano-ma, a modern cafe where you can lounge on cozy beds while sipping tea or enjoying dessert. Outside, Red Brick Park offers open lawns and a seawall promenade with postcard-worthy views of the harbor and ships passing by.
Warehouse No. 1 – Culture and Events
The smaller building serves as a stage for seasonal exhibitions, concerts, plays, and art galleries. We’ve visited during winter illumination and also caught summer events there—it’s always worth checking the event calendar before you go.
Seasonal Highlights
The atmosphere at the Red Brick Warehouse changes with the seasons. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
- A skating rink in winter
- Outdoor beer and food festivals in summer
- European-style holiday markets in December
- Art and design showcases throughout the year
We recommend walking out to the far edge of the port behind the warehouses. The skyline views are especially beautiful at sunset, when the city glows against the bay.
How to Get to the Red Brick Warehouse
The Red Brick Warehouse sits on Shinko Island in the Minato Mirai area. It is an easy walk from nearby sights and several train stations.
By Train
- From Bashamichi Station (Minatomirai Line) and Nihon-odori Station (Minatomirai Line), 6 to 8 minutes on foot
On Foot from Nearby Spots
- Yamashita Park – about 15 to 20 minutes along the waterfront
- Yokohama Chinatown – about 15 minutes via Nihon-odori
Pro Tip: The red brick buildings look beautiful when illuminated at night.
Is the Red Brick Warehouse Worth Visiting?
The Red Brick Warehouse is one of Yokohama’s most versatile attractions. You can shop, dine, or simply relax by the bay while soaking in its historical charm. Seasonal events add a fresh layer each time, making it a spot we’ve happily returned to more than once.
More to Explore Nearby
The historic Red Brick Warehouses anchor the scenic Minato Mirai waterfront, positioning you close to Yokohama’s towering landmarks, unique museums, and relaxing green spaces along the harbor.
- Yokohama Marine Tower – Visit this iconic landmark for a fantastic panoramic view of the harbor and the entire city skyline from its observation deck.
- Cup Noodles Museum – Visit this popular, interactive museum dedicated to the invention and history of instant ramen.
- Yokohama Cosmo World – Enjoy the excitement of this urban amusement park in the Minato Mirai area, known for its giant Ferris wheel and various thrill rides.
- Yamashita Park – Take a relaxing stroll through this scenic waterfront park, which offers expansive views of the harbor and the city.
