33 Best Things to Do in Yokohama (2026 Guide) ! Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park, and Chinatown

The Yokohama, Sakuragicho, and Minato Mirai area is a premier destination that one of Japan’s most popular sightseeing destinations for both sightseeing and dates. It beautifully blends a modern waterfront lined with cutting-edge landmarks with a distinct cultural charm found in the historic Red Brick Warehouse and the exotic Chinatown.

Boasting some of the most beautiful night views in Japan, open waterfront spots unique to a port town, and the retro charm of Noge in Sakuragicho, the entire Yokohama and Minato Mirai area feels like a massive theme park. It truly stands as one of Japan’s most iconic tourist destinations.

Theme Parks, Amusement Parks, Aquariums, Zoos & Parks

A Captivating Mix of a Giant Ferris Wheel, Red Brick, Landmark Tower, and Sailing Ship: Yokohama Minato Mirai

Stepping out from Sakuragicho Station brings you right into “Minato Mirai 21,” Yokohama’s iconic, modern waterfront district. Yokohama’s signature symbols are luxuriously gathered in this open, coastal space.

From the soaring “Yokohama Landmark Tower” to the giant Ferris wheel “Cosmo Clock 21” illuminated beautifully at night, the stylishly retro “Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse,” and the elegantly docked Important Cultural Property “Sailing Ship Nippon Maru”—every single angle offers a picture-perfect view.

Each spot is seamlessly connected by promenades and Japan’s first urban ropeway, the “YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN,” allowing you to spend an entire day strolling around without ever getting bored while enjoying the sea breeze. Blending cutting-edge urban beauty with the history of a port town, this is the absolute core area you cannot miss when sightseeing in Yokohama.

Yokohama’s Premier Waterfront Oasis to Feel the Sea Breeze: “Yamashita Park”

An incredibly open and pleasant park that stretches gracefully along the Yokohama coastline. The moment you step inside, you are greeted by the blue ocean right before your eyes, framed by beautifully maintained, plush green lawns and rich trees—making a simple walk feel deeply healing. Just sitting on one of the many benches scattered across the park, feeling the pleasant sea breeze while lazily watching the passing ships, offers an absolutely wonderful way to spend your time.

The park is packed with the signature atmosphere of a port town, hosting the “Girl in Red Shoes Statue” inspired by the famous children’s song, alongside the massive, retro ship “Hikawamaru” docked grandly at the pier.

During spring and autumn, the park features stunning floral areas where countless beautiful roses bloom in full glory. There is no better place to highly recommend for a relaxing stroll and a deep breath of fresh air between your Yokohama explorations.

An Urban Amusement Park Symbolized by a Giant Ferris Wheel: “Yokohama Cosmo World”

An urban amusement park marked by the famous giant Ferris wheel that is an essential part of the Minato Mirai skyline. Admission is free, and the system allows you to buy tickets only for the specific attractions you want to ride. This makes it incredibly convenient to drop by casually, whether you just want to take in the atmosphere or hop onto a single ride.

The signature attraction is the “Cosmo Clock 21,” a giant Ferris wheel complete with a clock function. Riding it during the daytime to get a sweeping view of the Yokohama cityscape is exhilarating, but riding it at night to gaze down at the sparkling Minato Mirai nightscape from a front-row seat offers a romantic, wonderfully luxurious experience.

Crafting Your Own Original Cup Noodles: “CupNoodles Museum Yokohama”

Located along the Minato Mirai waterfront, this is a highly popular amusement facility where everyone from children to adults can lose track of time. The star attraction here is the “My Cup Noodles Factory,” where you can create your very own, completely original Cup Noodles! You can design your own custom cup, choose your favorite soup from four distinct varieties, and select four toppings out of 12 choices to place inside.

It is a highly recommended spot that you cannot miss when visiting Yokohama, ensuring a happy day out even on rainy days without having to worry about the weather.

A Free-Admission Oasis to Get Up Close with Animals: “Nogeyama Zoo”

Perched on a hill just a short walk up the slope from Sakuragicho Station, this zoo offers a wonderfully nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere. The grounds host a wide variety of animal friends, ranging from popular stars like lions and giraffes to fascinating reptiles. The layout is compact rather than overwhelming, making it an easy and manageable size to stroll through smoothly during a casual walk.

Yokohama Minato Mirai & Urban Landmarks

A Breathtaking Observation Deck from the 69th Floor: “Yokohama Landmark Tower Sky Garden”

The iconic skyscraper of Yokohama, “Yokohama Landmark Tower,” features one of Japan’s premier observation floors on its 69th floor, sitting at a height of 273 meters. The floor offers a complete 360-degree glass pane view, displaying an overwhelming panorama that covers not just the port town of Yokohama and the modern streets of Minato Mirai, but also Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and even the grand silhouette of Mount Fuji on a clear day.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in a romantic view with someone special or enjoy a luxurious solo walk in the sky, this classic spot is the perfect place to kick off your Yokohama sightseeing tour.

A Beautiful, Historically Significant Sailing Ship Floating in Minato Mirai: “Sailing Ship Nippon Maru”

An elegant sailing ship preserved and opened to the public in the exact state it was in during its active years. The interior keeps the rooms of the officers and the living spaces of the trainees exactly as they were back then, allowing you to step inside and explore the historical vessel.

A Panoramic Wooden Deck Jutting Out to Sea: “Yokohama Port Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal”

One of Japan’s largest passenger ship terminals, which has been carving out history as the ocean gateway to Yokohama Port since the Meiji era. The views from here boast a premier beauty within Yokohama, offering a full 360-degree panoramic outlook that captures the Minato Mirai skyscraper district, the Red Brick Warehouse, and the Yokohama Bay Bridge all at once.

An Important Cultural Property Floating on the Waves, Standing Right Before Yamashita Park: “NYK Hikawamaru”

A large, retro ship moored grandly against the pier of Yamashita Park. Visitors can go inside to tour the vessel. You can explore the sophisticated, Art Deco-style first-class passenger rooms, the grand dining hall, the engine room—the heart of the ship normally hidden from view—as well as the bridge, where you can feel like a captain, and the open deck which offers fantastic views.

Yokohama’s Iconic Landmark Offering a Panoramic View of the Port Town: “Yokohama Marine Tower”

Soaring high right next to Yamashita Park, this tower once served actively as a lighthouse. Reopened after a complete renewal in 2022, it offers a mystical space at night where media art and the glittering nightscape blend seamlessly together.

A Massive Complex Born in Front of Kannai Station in 2026: “BASEGATE Yokohama Kannai”

The latest, highly anticipated landmark in Yokohama, born right in front of JR Kannai Station in 2026. While beautifully preserving and utilizing the valuable historic building of the “Former Yokohama City Hall,” it has been reborn as a massive urban block housing cutting-edge entertainment, gourmet dining, and a premium hotel.

The area spreads out like an open park, creating an exciting space that is a joy to drop by casually during a walk. A major draw is the “Stadium-yoko Bar Alleys,” where a line of unique food and beverage stalls gather. Offering everything from uniquely Yokohama local comfort foods to international flavors, it makes hopping from one bar to the next incredibly easy and casual.

Preserving the Beauty of Historic Architecture: “Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall (Jack’s Tower)”

Among the retro streetscapes of Yokohama, this beautiful red-brick building stands out spectacularly. Built as a historical monument to commemorate the opening of the port, it has been designated as a national Important Cultural Property.

The clock tower stands at a height of about 36 meters and has long been affectionately known by locals as “Jack’s Tower.” (For context, the nearby Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building is nicknamed “King,” and the Yokohama Customs Building is called “Queen,” together forming the famous “Yokohama Three Towers”). The contrast between the red brick and the white granite is truly beautiful. No matter where you snap a photo, it looks like a European street corner, making it a highly popular shooting spot during walks.

On days when it is open to the public, visitors can step inside to view the interior.

Streetscapes Lined with Beautiful, Exotic Western-Style Houses: “Yokohama Yamate Western Houses”

Perched on a hill up the slope from Motomachi-Chukagai Station, this area deeply retains its history as a former foreign settlement. Beautiful Western-style houses built from the Taisho era to the early Showa era are scattered throughout the lush, peaceful neighborhood, allowing you to experience an elegant atmosphere as if walking through an overseas town.

Seven unique and sophisticated Western houses, such as the “Diplomat’s House” and the beautifully Spanish-styled “Berrick Hall,” are carefully preserved within the district. The surrounding area also hosts prestigious cafes and the “Harbor View Park” overlooking the sea, making it a wonderful hidden gem where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while touring the Western houses.

History, Culture, Shrines, Temples & Gardens

The Grand Guardian of Yokohama: “Naritasan Yokohama Betsuin (Nogeyama Fudoson)”

A historic temple nestled halfway up the slope leading toward Nogeyama Zoo, deeply cherished by local residents. Built during the port-opening period of the Meiji era to watch over the rapid development of Yokohama, it has protected the city and its people from disaster since ancient times.

From around the main hall situated on the high ground, you can look down at the skyscrapers of Minato Mirai and the streets of Yokohama, making it well known as a hidden vantage point where the old and new aspects of the city intersect.

It is a special place well worth a stop between walking the streets of Noge or exploring the zoo.

A Vast, Traditional Japanese Garden: “Sankeien”

Located in the southern part of Yokohama, this is a vast, traditional Japanese garden created by the wealthy businessman Hara Sankei. Within a massive site equivalent to about four Tokyo Domes, historically valuable structures relocated from places like Kyoto and Kamakura are thoughtfully arranged.

The garden overflows with the natural beauty of the four seasons. Whether it is the cherry blossoms in spring, the irises in early summer, the vibrant autumn leaves, or the plum blossoms in winter, a landscape as beautiful as a painting greets you whenever you visit. It is a garden where you can casually stroll around the large pond and experience traditional Japanese beauty against the backdrop of a three-story pagoda.

Activities & Experiences

Urban Ropeway: “YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN”

Japan’s first urban loop-type ropeway, connecting the front of JR Sakuragicho Station directly to the “Unga Park Station (World Porters / Red Brick Warehouse)” in the Shingo district in a minimum of about 5 minutes. Since its birth in 2021, it has made traveling across Minato Mirai overwhelmingly convenient.

Boarding the cabin opens up a dynamic panorama of Minato Mirai right before your eyes.

A New Spot in Rinko Park to Relax and Gaze at the Sea: “Yokohama Timber Wharf”

Born inside “Rinko Park” which spreads across the furthest edge of Minato Mirai, this is a highly trendy spot where you can be healed by beautiful ocean views and the warmth of wood. Situated right near the open lawn plaza, it is an open space featuring a sophisticated, wood-deck style terrace and a cozy cafe space.

The dynamic blue sea of Yokohama Port and the Bay Bridge unfold right in front of you, allowing you to enjoy freshly brewed coffee or carefully curated takeout food while listening to the sound of the waves. It is perfect for dropping by casually between sightseeing to take a breather on the benches or terrace seats.

An Immersive Latest Experience Spot in a World of Light and Image: “Wondaria Yokohama”

Born in the spring of 2026 within “BASEGATE Yokohama Kannai” in front of JR Kannai Station, this immersive experience facility is currently drawing massive buzz. Utilizing cutting-edge digital technology, it serves as a next-generation entertainment space where you can forget daily life and step into a world full of wonder.

The interior is composed of six zones with different themes, such as lush forests, a mysterious deep sea, and an endless open sky. The deep-sea area that symbolizes the facility features one of Japan’s largest massive LED immersive tunnels. With three-dimensional images covering your entire field of vision from the walls to the floor, it delivers an overwhelming sense of scale, making you feel as though you have truly dove into the ocean depths.

A Kids’ Park to Enjoy with All Five Senses: “Hapipi Land Yokohama Asobuild Store”

An all-weather, indoor kids’ theme park located on the 4th floor of “Asobuild,” a composite entertainment building directly accessible from the Yokohama Station Minami-East Exit passage. Based on the concept that “rich learning exists within play,” a vast space themed around the universe spreads out.

The interior is divided into 12 zones that stimulate a child’s five senses and creativity. It is packed with setups that engage both mind and body, including running tracks to race around freely, large playground equipment, unique instruments that make sounds, and a cave-shaped library gathering beautiful picture books.

A Premium Dramatic Experience Looking Down from the Sky: “Yokohama Sky Cruise Platinum PLATINUM”

A special helicopter cruising plan that takes off from the Minato Mirai Heliport, allowing you to enjoy a walk in the sky on an overwhelming scale. Taking full advantage of Yokohama’s prime location which offers easy access to both the city center and Shonan, you can savor a beautiful view that shifts dramatically.

From the completely chartered, private cabin, you can look down at the night view of Yokohama Minato Mirai spreading out below while simultaneously taking in the glittering lights of the Tokyo city center in the distance. It boasts immense popularity as a stage for anniversary surprises or marriage proposals, offering a premium experience that delivers lifelong emotions.

A Premium Offshore Resort Departing from Yokohama Port: “Diamond Princess Cruise”

A Japanese-born, ultra-large luxury cruise ship that tours domestic and international destinations using Yokohama Port as its homeport. Cruises during the autumn season (around October to November), when you can enjoy autumn leaves and gourmet food, are particularly popular, allowing you to depart gracefully from Yokohama to tour around Japan or visit South Korea.

The interior of the ship is truly a “moving first-class hotel.” Featuring a theater where glamorous shows unfold every night, a genuine large panoramic bath that makes it hard to believe you are on a ship, rich fine dining, and a poolside under the starlit sky, it stands as the ultimate form of entertainment.

Soothed by Large Baths and Night Views: “Yokohama Minato Mirai Manyo Club”

Located right in the center of Minato Mirai, this is a massive hot-spring facility full of traditional Japanese atmosphere. The interior is fully equipped with facilities to refresh your daily fatigue, including spacious large baths, various types of saunas, and rock baths. In the “Panoramic Footbath Garden” on the rooftop, you can soak your feet while enjoying a sweeping view of the giant Ferris wheel “Cosmo Clock 21” soaring right in front of you, alongside the glittering nightscape of Minato Mirai.

Shopping, Malls & Shopping Streets

A Town Packed with Japan’s Premier Energy and Fine Dining: “Yokohama Chinatown”

Boasting over 500 shops tightly packed within a 500-meter square area, this is Japan’s largest Chinatown. The town is symbolized by 10 vibrant gates called “Pailou” built throughout the area at entrances and intersections. The moment you take a single step inside, you are wrapped in an overwhelming energy and heat that makes you forget you are in Japan.

Famous establishments and long-standing restaurants representing the four major regions of Chinese cuisine—Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, and Sichuan—gather here, allowing you to thoroughly enjoy the deep food culture of China, from authentic full course meals to casual lunches.

In recent years, it has gained immense popularity as a street-food town. The streets are always bustling with people enjoying a stroll with takeout items in hand, such as juicy fried xiaolongbao, giant pork buns, Taiwanese fried chicken, and adorable panda buns.

Beyond just the gourmet food, the beautifully vivid architecture is a major highlight, including “Kanteibyo Temple” which enshrines the deity of business prosperity, and “Mazu Temple,” said to grant all varieties of wishes. It offers an energetic town walk where you can experience the exotic culture and lively atmosphere firsthand while satisfying your appetite.

Boasting a Full-Panoramic Observation Deck and Food Court: “Yokohama World Porters”

Shinko district of Minato Mirai, this is a large shopping mall based on the concept that “various worlds are right here.” Having completed its largest-ever full-scale renewal in 2024, it has evolved into a highly trendy outing spot.

The food court on the 2nd floor, which boasts a premier size in the area, features a line of international gourmet options like Hawaiian food, sweets making their first-ever landing in Japan, and talked-about experiential cafes. Stylish imported novelty shops and the latest entertainment amusements also gather here, delivering a festival-like excitement just by walking through the building.

The “Roof Garden” on the rooftop is a hidden, scenic viewing spot that offers an all-directional view of the Minato Mirai giant Ferris wheel and Yokohama Port. Spending time to catch your breath in this open location while feeling the sea breeze is exceptional. It is a versatile landmark where you can enjoy refreshing yourself between shopping, as well as a romantic night view stroll later in the evening.

Touring Historic Brands on an Elegant Street: “Motomachi Shopping Street”

Located right near Yokohama Chinatown, just across the Horikawa River, this is a sophisticated shopping street stretching a total length of about 600 meters. Because it sat at the foot of the Yamate district—which was a foreign settlement during the Meiji port-opening period—it holds a history of developing as a shopping district catered toward foreigners. Even today, it retains an elegant and classical atmosphere reminiscent of European streetscapes.

The street is lined with many stylish cafes, traditional bakeries, and Western confectionery shops, allowing you to gracefully enjoy a calm, mature town walk while savoring freshly baked bread or sweets.

Entertainment Districts & Nightspots

Unique Bar Hopping in a Retro Showa Space: “Noge Area & Tabemono Yokocho”

A popular indoor bar-hopping spot tucked into a corner of the bustling “Noge” district, which is famous nationwide as a deep drinking neighborhood. As the red gates (arches), colorful lanterns, and neon signs light up, the entire neighborhood becomes wrapped in a unique heat. Retaining the atmosphere of good old-fashioned izakayas from the past, unique food and beverage stalls are packed tightly along the narrow alleys.

A Tiny Alley of Snack Bars Nestled Along a Deep River: “Miyakobashi Shopping Street”

Located at the edge of the Noge area, this is a long, narrow two-story building that curves gently along the Ooka River. Built during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics to consolidate street vendors into a single location and clean up the cityscape, it is now affectionately known as “Harmonica Yokocho” due to its unique exterior appearance.

The sight of about 60 tiny shops measuring only about two to three tatami mats in size packed tightly across the 1st and 2nd floors is absolutely stunning. Behind each door spreads a deep and charming world, including craft beer specialty bars, shops serving fresh wild game (gibier), and snack bars where the unique personality of the owner or master shines.

Night Views of Yokohama & Minato Mirai

The Classic, Stunning View Woven by Cosmo Clock and Canals: “Minato Mirai Night View”

A grand panoramic night view boasting a premier beauty within Japan, which you absolutely cannot miss when visiting Yokohama. The scene woven by the lights of the sophisticated skyscrapers and the quietly rippling surface of the canals is as beautiful as a postcard no matter where you look, instantly capturing the hearts of all who visit.

The star of the night view is the giant Ferris wheel “Cosmo Clock 21.” Its full-color illumination, emitted by about one million LED lights that shift colors second by second, is nothing short of breathtaking. Minato Mirai is truly a city where you can savor one of Japan’s most iconic and beautiful night views.

Gourmet Options in the Area

Ranging from Juicy Fried Xiaolongbao to Classic Luxury Chinese: “Exquisite Chinese Cuisine in Chinatown”

Within Japan’s largest Yokohama Chinatown, over 500 shops are tightly packed from the main avenues to the narrow back alleys. Every variety of Chinese cuisine is available, from casual comfort foods to top-tier imperial palace cuisine that you would want to visit for a special day.

In 2026, many establishments fully feature the massively popular “Malatang” (spicy numb soup). The soups, where fresh seafood like shrimp and squid, plenty of vegetables, and flavor-soaked tofu skin or pork are enjoyed in a sharp, tingling numb-and-spicy broth, are absolutely exquisite.

The Ultimate Soul Food of Yokohama: “Kiyoken’s Shumai Bento”

The bento boxes crafted by the long-established “Kiyoken”—which boasts overwhelming recognition and popularity as a travel companion in Yokohama and a local soul food—stand as one of the most famous bento boxes across Japan. It is a bento you will spot in many locations, including Yokohama Station, major spots in Minato Mirai, and department stores.

While eating it inside a Shinkansen or train is classic, savoring it on a park bench where you can feel the sea breeze of Minato Mirai while looking out at the scenery of Yokohama is exceptional. It is a must-eat gourmet item when in Yokohama.

Savoring Views While Gazing at the Port: “Minato Mirai Cafe with a Scenic Ocean View”

Minato Mirai is dotted with numerous cafes where you can spend a luxurious time looking out from a front-row seat at the scenery of “Port Town Yokohama,” woven by the blue sea, passing ships, and the sophisticated urban skyscrapers. They refresh you between shopping and add a special touch to a date.

A major draw of these scenic cafes is that many come fully equipped with open terrace seats. Savoring freshly brewed coffee or thoughtfully crafted, stylish sweets while looking out at the unobstructed grand panorama of the sea stretching out before you offers a blissful moment that lets you forget the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The Grand Head House of House-Style Ramen Proudly Borne by Yokohama: “Yoshimuraya”

The grand head house that stands as the source of “Yokohama House-Style (Iekai) Ramen” and continues to emit an overwhelming charisma is “Yoshimuraya.” A supreme bowl that pairs a base of heavy pork bone and chicken bone broth with a sharp, rich custom soy sauce tare, finished with a layer of highly fragrant chicken oil (chiyu). The soup, which fills your mouth with a deep richness and savory flavor, leaves a powerful impact that you will never forget once you eat it.

Recommended Hotels in Yokohama Minato Mirai

The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu

An urban resort hotel boasting a prime location right in the center of Minato Mirai, situated directly in front of the giant Ferris wheel. Many guest rooms come fully equipped with balconies, allowing you to luxuriously monopolize one of Yokohama’s most beautiful night views while feeling the pleasant sea breeze.

In addition to the sophisticated and modern guest rooms, the hotel gathers top-tier hospitality and a variety of famous restaurants, including premier French cuisine, offering a supreme moment that gracefully colors special anniversaries or Yokohama sightseeing trips.

Summary: Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park & Chinatown

The Yokohama and Minato Mirai area stands as one of Japan’s premier sightseeing destinations, allowing you to simultaneously enjoy the beauty of a waterfront where cutting-edge trends gather alongside the classical atmosphere that passes down the history of the port-opening period. From open landmarks with ocean views to entertainment districts where you can spend a deep night, and top-tier gourmet food that satisfies your appetite, you will encounter new charms every time you visit.

Yokohama is perfect not just for a quick day trip, but also as a place to spend a luxurious two-day, one-night stay at a wonderful hotel where you can monopolize the night view from a guest room balcony. From a refreshing morning walk along the coast to a romantic moment gazing at the glittering nightscape, and a deep night of bar hopping, you can enjoy one of the finest travel experiences Japan has to offer.