Places to Visit in Yokohama | Impressive Attractions & Fun Museums

The city of Yokohama is a food lover’s dream and a coastal paradise just south of Tokyo. Places to visit in Yokohama include the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum and Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, which sits on its own island in the bay area of the city. Visitors to Yokohama will want to arrive their with an appetite not only for the region’s food but also for its history!

Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum

The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum is one of the most unique museums in Japan, offering visitors an immersive experience into the world of ramen. This museum is designed to resemble a 1958 Tokyo street, complete with retro storefronts and nostalgic decor. Visitors can learn about the history of ramen noodles and explore various ramen shops, each offering different regional styles of ramen from across Japan. Family-friendly activities include ramen-making workshops where both kids and adults can learn to create their own noodles. The museum often hosts special events and seasonal ramen festivals, providing a dynamic and flavorful experience. Conveniently located near Shin-Yokohama Station, the museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Dining options within the museum are plentiful, with multiple ramen shops serving a variety of delicious bowls, ensuring that every visitor finds a flavor they love.

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Cup Noodles Museum

Another place in Yokohama dedicated to ramen noodles is the Cup Noodles Museum. The exhibits inside this playful museum differ from those at Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, as they concentrate on the history of instant ramen, made popular by Momofuku Ando, founder of the Nissin Foods company, starting in 1958. Hands-on workshops allow visitors to experience how the noodle business works, and films and exhibits explain this history of these portable lunches which have even been sent into space! Family-friendly activities include the My Cup Noodles Factory, where visitors can design their own custom cup noodles, and the Chicken Ramen Factory, where they can make ramen from scratch. Located in the Minato Mirai 21 area, the museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Dining options include the Noodles Bazaar, which offers a variety of noodle dishes from around the world, providing a global culinary experience.

Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum

The Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum is a delightful destination for families with young children, dedicated to the beloved Japanese character Anpanman. The museum features interactive exhibits, play areas, and themed attractions that bring the world of Anpanman to life. Activities include live shows, character meet-and-greets, and hands-on workshops where children can create their own Anpanman-themed crafts. The museum often hosts family-friendly events and seasonal celebrations, adding to its vibrant and engaging atmosphere. Conveniently located near the Minato Mirai 21 area, the Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Dining options within the museum include themed cafes and restaurants that offer a variety of kid-friendly meals and snacks, ensuring a fun and enjoyable dining experience. The combination of interactive exhibits, live entertainment, and themed dining makes the Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum a must-visit attraction for families with young children.

Yokohama Museum of Art

The Yokohama Museum of Art is a premier cultural institution that showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art from Japan and around the world. The museum features spacious galleries with works by renowned artists such as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, and Japanese masters. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibitions, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. Family-friendly activities include art workshops and educational programs designed to engage children and foster creativity. The museum often hosts special exhibitions, art lectures, and cultural events, adding to its dynamic atmosphere. Also located in the Minato Mirai 21 area, the Yokohama Museum of Art is easily accessible by public transportation. Dining options within the museum include a stylish cafe that serves light meals and beverages, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the artistic ambiance.

Yokohama Chinatown

When Yokohama’s main port opened to foreign trade in 1859, the city’s Chinese population skyrocketed. Because of this influx of citizens, Yokohama now boasts the largest Chinatown in Japan. Tourists won’t want to miss this whopping seaside treasure with an abundance of historic landmarks and tasty food, including over 600 shops and restaurants along bustling streets lined with colorful lanterns. Some sites to see in Yokohama Chinatown include nine colorful gates scattered throughout the district and Kanteibyo (Emperor Guan’s Shrine in Yokohama), a temple dedicated to the Chinese god of good business and prosperity. The four main gates of Yokohama Chinatown are called Genbu Mon, Choyo-mon, Enpei Mon and Suzak Mon, and five smaller gates can be found within. As for the dishes to try, steamed buns are an ever-popular treat, and the district has put its own spin on ramen noodle soup. Guests who visit Yokohama Chinatown in February will get to experience the many festivals and colorful activities of Chinese New Year. Easily accessible by public transportation, Yokohama Chinatown is a short walk from Motomachi-Chukagai Station.

Things to do in Chinatown:

• Photograph colorful main gates – Genbu Mon, Choyo-mon, Enpei Mon and Suzak Mon
• Watch lion dances
• Enjoy Chinese cuisine
• Visit Kanteibyo temple

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a historic building complex that has been transformed into a vibrant cultural and commercial space. Visitors can explore the unique architecture of the red brick buildings, which house a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Family-friendly activities include visiting the event plaza, which often hosts seasonal markets, outdoor concerts, and art exhibitions. The warehouse also features a creative space where visitors can participate in workshops and craft activities. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, especially during events such as the Yokohama Oktoberfest and Christmas Market. Conveniently located in the Minato Mirai 21 area, the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is easily accessible by public transportation. Dining options include a range of international and Japanese cuisine, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating with views of the waterfront.

Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise

Even if you opt out of visiting the two most popular attractions in Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, you’ll still want to explore this island in Yokohama’s bay area. This coastal wonderland is lined with shopping centers, restaurants, beautiful parks, and a promenade that offers scenic views of the ocean. Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is a sprawling marine-themed amusement park featuring an aquarium with over 100,000 marine creatures, including dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles. Aqua Resorts includes the Aqua Museum (UMI FARM), Dolphin Fantasy, and Fureai Lagoon, where visitors can enjoy watching dolphins, sea lions, seals, and walruses. Family-friendly activities include interactive exhibits, dolphin shows, and walking through an underwater tunnel. Pleasure Land offers thrilling rides suitable for guests of all ages, such as the Blue Fall free-fall ride and the Surf Coaster. Seasonal events and festivals, like the Summer Night Aquarium and Christmas illuminations, add to the park’s dynamic atmosphere. Accessible by train and a short walk from the nearest station, the park also features seafood restaurants, cafes, and food stalls, providing a variety of meals and snacks. The combination of marine life exhibits, amusement rides, and seasonal events makes Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise a must-visit attraction for families and adventure seekers.

Yokohama Cosmo World

Yokohama Cosmo World is a family-friendly amusement park located in the heart of the Minato Mirai 21 area. The park is famous for its iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the city and waterfront. Visitors can enjoy a variety of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and arcade games. Family-friendly activities include the Kids Carnival Zone, which features gentle rides and play areas for younger children. Yokohama Cosmo World often hosts seasonal events and illuminations, adding to its festive atmosphere. Dining options within the park include food stalls and cafes that offer a range of snacks and light meals, making it easy to refuel between rides.

Sankeien Garden

Sankeien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden that offers a serene escape from the bustling city. The garden features beautifully landscaped grounds, including ponds, streams, and historic buildings such as tea houses and pagodas. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along winding paths that reveal picturesque views at every turn. Family-friendly activities include participating in traditional tea ceremonies, exploring the garden’s seasonal flower displays, and attending cultural events such as cherry blossom viewings and autumn foliage festivals. The garden is easily accessible by public transportation, with a short bus ride from Yokohama Station. Nearby dining options include a charming tea house that serves light meals and traditional Japanese sweets, providing a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the garden’s beauty.

Minato Mirai 21

Minato Mirai 21 is a futuristic waterfront urban area in Yokohama, known for its stunning shopping centers, museums, and high-rise buildings, including the famous Yokohama Landmark Tower. Once a shipyard until the 1980s, it is now one of Yokohama’s most modern developments. Visitors can explore grand department stores like Landmark Plaza and Queen’s Square, which feature a wide range of international brands and local boutiques. The district is also home to some of the city’s most elaborate hotels and convention centers. Family-friendly activities include visiting the Yokohama Cosmo World amusement park, featuring the iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, and the Cup Noodles Museum. The area often hosts events such as fireworks displays, music festivals, and seasonal markets, providing a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Minato Mirai 21 is easily accessible by public transportation, with several train stations and bus routes serving the area. Dining options are plentiful, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from fine dining to casual eateries, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.

Yokohama Landmark Tower

Yokohama Landmark Tower is one of the tallest buildings in Japan and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Tokyo Bay from its Sky Garden observatory on the 69th floor. Visitors can enjoy the stunning vistas, especially during sunset and nighttime when the city lights up. Family-friendly activities include exploring the Landmark Plaza shopping mall, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options such as a cinema and an indoor amusement park. Conveniently located in the Minato Mirai 21 area, Yokohama Landmark Tower is easily accessible by public transportation. Dining options within the tower include upscale restaurants and casual eateries, offering a range of cuisines to suit every palate.

Where to stay in Yokohama

Yokohama offers several vibrant and convenient areas for tourists to stay, each with its own unique attractions and amenities. Here are the top 5 areas or districts where tourists often choose to stay in Yokohama:

Minato Mirai 21

Minato Mirai 21 is a modern waterfront district known for its stunning skyline, shopping centers, and entertainment options. It is home to major attractions such as the Yokohama Landmark Tower, Cosmo World, and the Cup Noodles Museum. The area offers a variety of hotels ranging from luxury to budget-friendly, making it a popular choice for tourists. Its central location and excellent public transportation connections make it easy to explore other parts of Yokohama.

Yokohama Chinatown

Yokohama Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in Japan and a vibrant cultural hub. Staying in this area allows tourists to immerse themselves in a lively atmosphere filled with colorful streets, traditional Chinese architecture, and a plethora of dining options. The area is also close to other attractions such as Yamashita Park and the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. Accommodations in Chinatown range from boutique hotels to budget inns, catering to various preferences.

Kannai

Kannai is a historic district that offers a mix of traditional charm and modern conveniences. It is home to several important landmarks, including Yokohama Stadium, the Yokohama Archives of History, and the historic Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall. The area is known for its quaint streets, local shops, and a variety of dining options. Kannai is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore other parts of the city. Accommodations in Kannai include mid-range hotels and guesthouses.

Sakuragicho

Sakuragicho is a bustling area that serves as a gateway to the Minato Mirai 21 district. It offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, with attractions such as the Yokohama Landmark Tower and the Yokohama Museum of Art nearby. The area is well-served by public transportation, including the Sakuragicho Station, which provides easy access to other parts of Yokohama and beyond. Accommodations in Sakuragicho range from luxury hotels to more affordable options, making it a convenient and popular choice for tourists.

Yamashita Park Area

The Yamashita Park area is a scenic waterfront district known for its beautiful park, which offers stunning views of Yokohama Bay and the iconic Hikawa Maru ship. Staying in this area provides easy access to attractions such as the Yokohama Marine Tower, Osanbashi Pier, and the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. The area is also close to Yokohama Chinatown, offering a variety of dining and shopping options. Accommodations in the Yamashita Park area include upscale hotels with bay views and more budget-friendly options.

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