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As Japan’s second-largest city, Yokohama combines harbor views, historic streets, a vibrant Chinatown, and attractions the whole family can enjoy.
Why We Love Visiting Yokohama
Yokohama is extra special since it’s Nami’s hometown. Every visit feels familiar yet full of discovery, with lively city energy alongside a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
- Close to Tokyo: A quick 30 minutes train ride brings you to an entirely new scene.
- Scenic and cultural mix: From Yamate’s Western-style homes to the Cup Noodles Museum, variety is everywhere.
- Views on the water: Promenades and observatories provide endless photo opportunities.
- Fun with kids: Cosmo World rides and interactive museums keep the little ones entertained.
- Great food: Japan’s largest Chinatown is here, along with stylish cafes and international restaurants.
Quick Facts About Yokohama
- Japan’s second-largest city with a population of just over 3 million.
- Capital of Kanagawa Prefecture.
- Opened to international trade in 1859, making it one of the first Japanese cities to welcome foreign influence.
Our Recommended Yokohama 2-Day Trip Itinerary
If you only have one day, this order worked well for us:
- Yokohama Station – Shopping and lunch at department stores and underground malls
- Yamate District – Historic homes and hillside outlooks
- Motomachi Shopping Street – Boutiques and cafés
- Yokohama Chinatown (横浜中華街) – Street food and temples
- Yokohama Marine Tower – Harbor views
- Yamashita Park – A family stroll along the bay
- Red Brick Warehouse (赤レンガ倉庫) – Crafts, events, and architecture
- Cup Noodles Museum – Fun, hands-on exhibits
- Cosmo World – Ferris wheel and family rides
- Nippon Maru Memorial Park – Historic sailing ship
- Landmark Tower Sky Garden – Sunset views from the 69th floor
How to Get to Yokohama
Yokohama is quick and easy to reach from central Tokyo and both airports.
Train
Is Yokohama Worth Visiting?
Yokohama is a destination we recommend to anyone visiting Japan. The city is large but approachable, modern yet full of history. Families can enjoy interactive museums and parks, couples will love the harbor views, and food lovers will find endless variety. Every time we go home, we leave feeling refreshed and inspired.
More to Explore Nearby
As a large, diverse port city, Yokohama offers a wealth of world-class attractions, from historic foreign settlements and vibrant cultural districts to innovative museums and dazzling waterfront parks.
- Yokohama Chinatown – Explore one of the world’s largest Chinatowns, offering a vibrant atmosphere, colorful temples, and endless dining options.
- Yamate District – Discover this historical hilltop neighborhood featuring beautiful preserved Western-style mansions and parks from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- 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.
I visited the Cup Noodle museum years ago. Is it worth it to visit the Ramen Museum when I return this year?
Hello,
The Ramen Museum is more like a retro-style food hall than a true museum. What makes it fun is the nostalgic 1960s decor and the rotating lineup of ramen shops. When a popular ramen chain from outside the Tokyo area is featured, you’ll see crowds flocking there to try it. When we visited, one of the shops from Hokkaido already had 40 people lined up at 10:30 AM.