Yokohama, located south of Tokyo, is one of the most fascinating cities in Japan. As an economic center and major port, it offers a multitude of activities for travelers. Whether you're interested in history, culture or relaxation, Yokohama is sure to have something to offer you.
1. VISIT THE HISTORIC SANKEIEN DISTRICT
The Sankei Historic District is an oasis of tranquility in the urban bustle of Yokohama, it was created by a passionate man of the Edo period, Sankei Hara, at the beginning of the XXth century. This landscaped botanical garden is a true window into traditional Japan.
You can stroll among carefully landscaped gardens, peaceful ponds, and authentic historic structures that were moved here to preserve Japanese heritage. Among the notable buildings is a centuries-old tea house, where you can enjoy matcha (Japanese green tea) in a traditional setting.
Sankeien is particularly popular during the cherry blossom season in spring, when the garden's cherry trees are adorned with magnificent pink flowers. But in any season, it's a great place to escape hectic city life and immerse yourself in Japanese culture and history. Visitors can participate in tea ceremonies, seasonal festivals and admire the lovingly restored historic buildings. This historic district is an ideal getaway for those who want to immerse themselves in the traditional soul of Japan while staying in Yokohama.
2. PROMENADE MARITIME MINATO MIRAI
The Minato Mirai Promenade is one of the most iconic places in Yokohama, offering breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay and its surroundings. This seaside area is the economic and commercial heart of the city, but it is also a place of relaxation much appreciated by locals and visitors.
You can stroll along the promenade admiring modern skyscrapers, including the famous Yokohama Landmark Tower, which is one of the tallest buildings in Japan. At night, when the lights come on, the ambiance becomes even more magical, Minato Mirai's many restaurants, cafes and shops offer a variety of cuisines and shops to satisfy all tastes.
One of the major attractions of this walk is the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world which we will talk about a little later in this article. It will allow you to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Yokohama and the bay. In addition, you can visit the Yokohama Maritime Museum and the Ramen Museum, which celebrates this noodle dish so popular in Japan, here too, we will go into a little more detail in the next parts of this article. The Minato Mirai sea promenade is a great place to relax, shop, entertain and admire the beauty of Tokyo Bay.
3. DISCOVER CHINATOWN
Yokohama Chinatown is one of the largest and oldest Chinese communities in Japan, and a visit to this neighborhood is a must-see when you come to Yokohama. It is located close to Motomachi-Chukagai Station and is easily accessible, upon arrival you will immediately be greeted by majestic gates adorned with dragons and Chinese motifs, announcing your entry into a world totally different.
Chinatown is a maze of bustling streets, colorful lanterns, shops selling exotic souvenirs, authentic Chinese restaurants, and of course, delicious Chinese pastries. Don't hesitate to try local specialties, such as dim sum, steamed dumplings and fried noodles. You can also enjoy Chinese tea in one of the many traditional tea houses.
Yokohama's Chinatown is also known for its festivals and celebrations, especially during Chinese New Year. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, and impressive parades take place to mark the occasion. It's the perfect place to explore a different culture while still in Japan. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll through this colorful and lively neighborhood during your visit to Yokohama.
4. ADMIRE THE BAY BRIDGE
Yokohama's Bay Bridge is an impressive piece of engineering that offers an exceptional panoramic view of the city and the bay. It is a suspension bridge that connects the Minato Mirai district to Kanagawa Prefecture, passing through Yokohama Bay. The Bay Bridge is not only an essential transportation route for the region, but it has also become an iconic symbol of Yokohama.
As you cross the bridge, whether by car or on foot, you can admire the skyscrapers of Minato Mirai, including the Landmark Tower, as well as the cruise ships and fishing boats in the Bay. The view is especially spectacular in the evening when the city lights light up. It's a great place to take photos and capture the essence of Yokohama.
The Bay Bridge is also the starting point for many Yokohama Bay cruises. You can take a boat trip that will allow you to admire the city from another point of view. It is a unique experience that will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of Yokohama and its bay.
5. PAY TRIBUTE TO THE NIPPON MARU SHIP
The Nippon Maru Ship is another historical treasure in Yokohama that is worth a visit. It is a former Japanese sailing training ship, which is now permanently moored at the Yokohama docks and open to the public as a floating museum.
This iconic ship was built in 1930 and served as a training ship to train future Japanese sailors for decades, it sailed the world's seas, training generations of Japanese sailors. Today, the Nippon Maru is a floating museum that allows visitors to learn about Japan's maritime history.
During your visit, you can explore the ship's various decks, see the student cabins, admire the majestic sails and learn about life on board. The museum also offers interactive exhibits and information on Japanese maritime history.
The Nippon Maru Ship is a great way to delve into Japan's maritime history and appreciate the importance of Yokohama as a historic port. It is an educational and cultural experience that will delight history buffs and curious people of all ages.
6. RELAX IN YAMASHITA PARK
Yamashita Park is a true green gem located in the heart of Yokohama, by the sea. This park is the ideal place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying 'a breathtaking view of Yokohama Bay.
One of the park's most iconic features is the famous sea clock, which has been a symbol of Yokohama since its inception. The Sea Clock provides a beautiful setting for a peaceful stroll and is a great place to take photos.
Yamashita Park also offers manicured lawns, shaded walkways, picnic areas and children's play areas. It is ideal for a family stroll, a romantic picnic or simply to admire the view of the ocean. Additionally, the park is surrounded by cafes, restaurants and shops, which also makes it a great place to relax and recharge after exploring the city.
In addition, Yamashita Park is home to the Yokohama Port Memorial Museum, which notably traces the history of the city. There you can learn more about the importance of the port of Yokohama in the development of Japan.
Whether you want to relax, take a peaceful stroll, or learn more about Yokohama's history, Yamashita Park is a must-see during your visit to this iconic city.
7. EXPLORE YOKOHAMA ART MUSEUM
The Yokohama Museum of Art, also known as the Yokohama Museum of Art, is a must-visit destination for art and culture lovers. Located in the Minato Mirai district, this internationally renowned museum offers an enriching experience for visitors from all walks of life.
The museum houses an impressive collection of Japanese and Western art, including works ranging from the Edo period to contemporary art masterpieces. You can admire paintings, sculptures, ceramics, prints and much more. Among the artists represented, we find prestigious names such as Hokusai, Picasso, and many others. You will be able to immerse yourself in the history of Japanese and international art, from traditional to modern.
In addition to its permanent collections, the museum also offers captivating temporary exhibitions that cover a wide range of artistic styles and movements. These regularly renewed exhibitions guarantee a unique experience with each visit.
The museum building is a work of art in itself, with its modern architecture and impressive design. Additionally, from the top of the museum, you can enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of Yokohama Bay.
The Yokohama Art Museum is an ideal location for those looking to enrich their trip with a cultural and artistic experience. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a curious visitor, this place will offer you an exceptional opportunity to experience the beauty of Japanese and international art in an exceptional setting.
8. TASTE YOKOHAMA RAMEN
When you visit Yokohama, don't miss the opportunity to taste the region's famous ramen. Yokohama ramen is a delicious twist on this iconic Japanese dish, and the city is renowned for its many ramen shops that offer an exceptional taste experience.
The uniqueness of Yokohama ramen lies in its broth, unlike traditional ramen, here the broth is usually made from pork and chicken, which gives it a rich flavor. Additionally, the noodles used are often thicker than those found elsewhere in Japan, providing a unique and satisfying texture.
One of the most famous types of ramen in Yokohama is "ie-kei ramen", characterized by a thick, glistening broth, thick noodles and flavorful toppings. You can customize your bowl of ramen by choosing whatever toppings you like, whether it's meat, egg, vegetables, or other delicious ingredients.
One of the best places to taste ramen in Yokohama is the Chinatown district, where many restaurants specialize in this delicious dish. You can also explore other areas of the city to discover local establishments loved by locals.
Tasting Yokohama Ramen is a culinary experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and savor unique flavors. It's a must for any lover of Japanese cuisine, and a delicious way to discover the gastronomic diversity of the Yokohama region.
9. GET ABOARD THE COSMO CLOCK 21
During your visit to Yokohama, hop aboard the "Cosmo Clock 21", one of Japan's iconic Ferris wheels and one of Japan's most popular attractions. the city. Located in the Minato Mirai district, this Ferris wheel is a must-see for tourists looking for spectacular views of the city and Tokyo Bay.
The “Cosmo Clock 21” is a gigantic observation wheel that measures more than 100 meters in height. It is located in the Cosmo World shopping center, which is an attraction in itself with its lively atmosphere and many other attractions, including roller coasters and rides for the little ones.
One of the special features of this Ferris wheel is its unique design, making it the largest clock in the world, it is dazzlingly illuminated at night, making it a must-see visual landmark. When you board the air-conditioned pods of the “Cosmo Clock 21,” you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Yokohama and Tokyo Bay.
Whether you visit Yokohama by day or night, boarding the "Cosmo Clock 21" will give you an unforgettable perspective of this incredible city. It is a pleasant experience to share as a couple, with family or friends, which will leave you with lasting memories. Don't forget your camera to capture these breathtaking panoramic views of Yokohama.
10. ATTEND A BASEBALL GAME
Attending a baseball game in Japan is an unmissable experience, and Yokohama offers one of the best opportunities to experience this Japanese passion for sport. Yokohama Stadium, located in the Naka Ward district, is the home of the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, the professional baseball team of the city.
The atmosphere in the stadium is electric, with enthusiastic fans dressed in the colors of their favorite team. Singing, cheering and group dancing are an integral part of the experience, creating a festive and energetic atmosphere throughout the match. Japanese baseball games are also known for their fun interludes and special entertainment between innings, keeping everyone entertained.
A unique tradition at baseball games in Japan is the "Batter's Song", a personalized chant for each batter that is sung by the fans. If you attend a match, do not hesitate to participate in these chants and immerse yourself in the exceptional atmosphere.
Yokohama Stadium is a great place to learn about the Japanese passion for baseball, and even if you're not a huge sports fan, you'll definitely be captivated by the excitement of the event. Attending a baseball game in Yokohama is an unforgettable experience and a great way to explore the Japanese sports culture.
From now on, Yokohama no longer has any secrets for you! It's a city rich in history, culture and entertainment, so whatever your preferences, you're sure to find something to entertain you in this iconic Japanese city. On your next trip to Japan, be sure to visit Yokohama to discover all it has to offer, and as usual, don't hesitate to share your best photos with us on social media by tagging us!
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