Yokohama Travel Guide | Things to do in Yokohama

A City of Scenic Harbors and Rich History

Located just 30 minutes from Tokyo, Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city by population. Once a bustling port city, it was one of the first to open to foreign trade in the mid-19th century, and its history is reflected in its blend of traditional Japanese culture and Western influences. The city is home to a variety of buildings and stores with international designs, offering a fascinating mix of architecture and modern shopping.

Yokohama’s waterfront is one of its most captivating features. The iconic Minato Mirai district, with its futuristic skyscrapers and panoramic views of the harbor, is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience both the modern side of the city and its maritime history. Visitors can enjoy relaxing strolls along the waterfront, with beautiful parks and historical landmarks nearby.

Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying longer, Yokohama offers a perfect balance of modern attractions and cultural treasures, making it a standout location for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Image source: https://www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/en/yokohama/

CupNoodles Museum Yokohama

This museum showcases the history and ingenuity behind the popular convenience food – cup noodles. Visitors can explore exhibits tracing the evolution of cup noodles and even get hands-on by customizing their own cup noodle creations, designing packaging and all. The museum also celebrates the life and achievements of Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant ramen, offering a delightful and interactive experience for all, especially food enthusiasts and curious travelers.

Anpanman Children's Museum

Anpanman is a popular children’s TV show in Japan. Anpanman holds the Guinness World Record for the highest number of characters in an animated franchise. This complex not only has anpanman character museum, but has play area for kids, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops.

To visit, you can walk 10 minutes from Yokohama station, or 3 minute walk from Minatomirai Line Shin-takashima Station.

Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum

Opened in 1994, this Ramen Museum is the world’s first food-themed amusement park. You can see it as a food court where you can enjoy different types of ramens from all over Japan.

There is a gallery section on the first level where you can learn about history of Japanese ramen. Other than ramen restaurants, there are souvenir shops, cafes and other entertainment areas.

Many visitors get confused by this is different to Cup Noodle museum.

Yokohama Municipal Nogeyama Zoo

Yokohama Municipal Nogeyama Zoo is a charming, free-to-enter zoo nestled in the heart of the city, offering visitors a unique chance to experience wildlife up close. Located on Nogeyama Hill, the zoo is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, tigers, and birds, with exhibits designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats.

The zoo is known for its relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly environment, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With its beautiful views of the city and harbor, Nogeyama Zoo provides a peaceful escape while offering educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Sankeien Garden

Sankeien is a Japanese garden located in the southern area of Yokohama. It is a beautiful garden which has traditional buildings and landscape design. It is definitely worth a visit if you like nature and wish to enjoy the traditional Japanese garden.

Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise

Sea Paradise is an amusement theme park located on an island called Hakkeijima. This theme park consists of an aquarium, hotel, marina, shopping mall and amusement rides. There are so many things you can do in this place – 1 day may not be enough.

Yokohama Cosmo World

A theme park consisting of 3 different zones: “Wonder Amuse Zone”, “Brano Street Zone” and “Kids Carnival Zone”. There are roller coasters, water activities, VR attractions and many more. The ferris wheel within the theme park, Cosmo Clock 21, was formerly the tallest Ferris wheel in the world.

It is free to enter but you need to purchase ticket for each ride (price varies per ride).

Located 2 minutes walk from Minatomirai Station (Minatomirai Line)

Yokohama Marine Tower

Standing 106 metres (348 feet) high, it is the tallest building in Yokohama. It has an observation deck at 30th floor, a height of 100 metres, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Yokohama city. The admission fee needs to be paid to access the observation deck.

To visit, get off at Motomachi-Chukagai station on Minato Mirai line.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

Retaining the old red brick buildings made in Meiji period, in 2002 it was converted to commercial facility and now became a popular tourist spot in Yokohama. The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse has 2 buildings with 3 levels, which consists of shopping malls, restaurants and cafes.

Yokohama