Popular Sightseeing Tours in Yokohama

For a classic one-day trip to Yokohama, we recommend starting in the Minato Mirai 21 district. In the morning, visit the Red Brick Warehouses to experience the blend of history and modernity, and browse the unique shops. Have lunch nearby. In the afternoon, head to Yamashita Park, stroll along the waterfront, and admire the harbor views and the iconic Marine Tower. You can also take the YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN for a different perspective. In the evening, explore Yokohama Chinatown for authentic cuisine and an exotic atmosphere. If time permits, ascend the Sky Garden at the Landmark Tower to overlook the dazzling night view, concluding your day trip perfectly.

For your first independent trip to Yokohama, we suggest planning your transportation in advance. Consider purchasing a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient travel on subways and JR lines. For itinerary planning, Yokohama's city attractions are concentrated, making walking or using public transport easy. We recommend dividing areas like Minato Mirai 21, Chinatown, and Motomachi into separate half-day or full-day excursions. Regarding attire, comfortable shoes are essential due to extensive walking. Also, check the local weather forecast and ensure you have a portable charger and internet access for a smooth journey. Many attractions offer multilingual information, which can be very helpful.

Yokohama and Kamakura each have their own charm, and the choice depends on your travel preferences. Yokohama offers a modern harbor city vibe with skyscrapers, shopping malls, and amusement parks in Minato Mirai 21, along with the exotic Chinatown and Red Brick Warehouses. It's ideal for travelers who enjoy a metropolitan feel, good food, shopping, and sparkling night views. Kamakura, on the other hand, is steeped in ancient capital atmosphere, famous for its temples, shrines, and natural scenery, including the Great Buddha, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and coastal views. It suits those who prefer historical culture, a serene atmosphere, and natural landscapes. If time allows, combining both into a two-day, one-night trip offers a deeper experience.

The best time to view autumn foliage in Yokohama is typically in late autumn, around late November to early December. During this period, maple and ginkgo trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold, creating a picturesque scene. Recommended spots for autumn viewing include: Sankeien Garden, where the autumn leaves are particularly elegant against the backdrop of its Japanese garden and historic buildings; the ginkgo trees lining Yamashita Park are also beautiful; and the ginkgo avenue on Nihon Odori transforms into a golden tunnel in autumn, perfect for a stroll and photos. Some parks may also host illuminations, adding a romantic touch to night viewing.

Transportation costs for a one-day sightseeing trip in Yokohama primarily depend on your mode of transport and the extent of your travel. For travel within the city by subway or bus, purchasing a day pass can be more economical than single tickets. If traveling from Tokyo, you'll need to add the round-trip fare for JR or private railways. For dining, Yokohama offers diverse options, from street food in Chinatown to specialty restaurants in Minato Mirai 21. You can opt for budget-friendly light meals or convenience store options, or enjoy a more elaborate restaurant experience. The cost flexibility is high, allowing you to arrange according to your budget and preferences.

Yokohama offers many unique experiences and attractions you shouldn't miss. Must-visit spots include the modern Minato Mirai 21 district, where you can ride the transparent YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN for panoramic city views, or visit the CUPNOODLES MUSEUM to enjoy the fun of making your own instant noodles. Next, head to the historic Red Brick Warehouses for shopping and dining. Another highlight is Yokohama Chinatown, where you can savor various Chinese dishes and snacks. The beautiful Sankeien Garden offers a taste of elegant Japanese landscape design. In the evening, consider visiting Osanbashi Pier or Yamashita Park to admire the captivating night views of Yokohama Port.

To plan a one-day itinerary for Yokohama's Minato Mirai 21 district, you can start from Sakuragicho Station or Minatomirai Station. We recommend starting your morning at the CUPNOODLES MUSEUM for a hands-on experience making instant noodles, which is great for all ages. Afterward, take a stroll to the Red Brick Warehouses to enjoy shopping and dining while taking in the harbor views. Lunch can be enjoyed at the Red Brick Warehouses or in nearby shopping centers. In the afternoon, take the YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN to Canal Park, ride the COSMO CLOCK 21 Ferris wheel, or ascend the Sky Garden at the Landmark Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Minato Mirai 21 district. In the evening, take a walk along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset and the sparkling night illuminations.

When traveling to Yokohama with children, there are many family-friendly itinerary options. First, we recommend the Yokohama Anpanman Children's Museum, a paradise for Anpanman fans with various interactive exhibits and shows. Another popular attraction is the CUPNOODLES MUSEUM, where children can design their own custom noodle cups and learn about the history of instant noodles. The Cosmo World amusement park in Minato Mirai 21, especially its giant Ferris wheel, will thrill children. If you enjoy animals, Yokohama Zoo Zoorasia is also a good choice. Additionally, Yamashita Park offers ample space for children to run around freely and observe port activities up close.

When visiting Yokohama, there's a diverse range of local specialty souvenirs to choose from. A classic choice is 'Yokohama Hato Sabure' (Hato Sabure), a pigeon-shaped butter cookie that is a representative snack of Yokohama. Kiyoken's 'Shumai Bento' (Shumai Bento) is also a popular local souvenir, especially for its unique Shumai flavor. If you have a sweet tooth, the 'Ship Ticket Cookies' and 'Siren Cake' from Yokohama Basha-michi Jubankan are also distinctive. In Chinatown, you can find various Chinese dim sum, teas, and cute panda-themed merchandise. Furthermore, in the Red Brick Warehouses or around Yokohama Station, you can find many uniquely designed杂货 (zakka - miscellaneous goods) and locally limited items.

Yokohama's night view is renowned and a must-see experience for many tourists. To best enjoy the dazzling nightscape, we highly recommend ascending the Sky Garden at the Landmark Tower, offering a panoramic view of the Minato Mirai 21 district and Yokohama Port illuminated from 273 meters high. Secondly, head to Osanbashi Pier, which provides an excellent vantage point to simultaneously admire the skyscrapers of Minato Mirai 21, the Landmark Tower, and the Red Brick Warehouses, offering a vast panorama. For a more immersive experience, consider a Yokohama bay cruise to view the city lights from the sea, enjoying a different kind of romantic atmosphere. The COSMO CLOCK 21 Ferris wheel at Cosmo World is itself a beautiful part of the night scenery and can also be ridden for an experience.