Top left: ©︎Dick Thomas Johnson / CC BY 2.0
Bottom left, bottom right: ©︎Yokohama City Visitors Bureau
Yokohama is a city where everyday life and unexpected moments of wonder coexist. A touch of the exotic, the poetic charm of a port town, and a rich cultural landscape—together, they effortlessly awaken your senses. In this feature, we explore Yokohama from Bashamichi to Chinatown and Noge, highlighting key areas and must-visit spots. As Tokyo Gendai approaches, it’s the perfect time to rediscover all the unexpected delights that make Yokohama truly worth visiting.
Sign up now to receive part 2, our insider edition!
Part 2 is sent exclusively to newsletter subscribers. Register now to receive your guide to make the most of your time in Yokohama before and after Tokyo Gendai.
Table of Contents：
Bashamichi and Kannai: Streets of Western Flair
Delicious Detours in Yokohama Chinatown
Drawn by the Sea Breeze to the Red Brick Warehouse
A Floating Wonderland in the City – Yokohama Cosmo World
A Front-Row Seat to 360 Degrees of Sky and Sea at Osanbashi Pier
Bar-Hopping in Noge with Showa Nostalgia
Wander Seaside Streets at MARINE & WALK
Direct from the Station, Straight into Style – NEWoMan Yokohama
Yokohama Takashimaya — Premium Picks Just Outside the Yokohama Station West Exit
Bashamichi and Kannai: Streets of Western Flair
In the era of Japan’s modernization, Bashamichi in Yokohama thrived as a gateway to Western culture. Red-brick buildings and stone-paved sidewalks still echo the influence of British architecture, where history and sophistication coexist. This district is also known as the birthplace of Japan’s first gas lamps, ice cream, and photo studio.
In Kannai, you’ll find three iconic buildings affectionately known as the “Three Towers of Yokohama” — the King (Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building), the Queen (Yokohama Customs House), and the Jack (Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall).
There are three spots in the area where you can view all three towers at once, and according to local legend, visiting all of them will bring you good fortune. This urban myth is known as the “Legend of the Three Towers.” One such spot is directly across the street from the Prefectural Government Building on Nihon Odori, marked by a small metal plaque.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
Katsuretsu-an, a long-established tonkatsu restaurant founded in 1927, is nestled among the historical buildings. Their pork cutlets are prepared with a signature sauce and carefully chosen breadcrumbs. It’s said that the restaurant’s name was handwritten by Shikō Munakata, the celebrated woodblock print artist, adding another layer of charm.
After your meal, head to “Libushi Bashamichi”, a cozy brewpub housed in a beautifully restored building that once served as a silk inspection office. The couple who runs it started their brewery ten years ago in Nozawa Onsen. The space isn’t large, but it features around ten taps and often offers limited-edition beers. Sipping craft beer in a place filled with such historical character is a truly special experience.
Additional Information
Bashamichi and Kannai area
Closest Stations:
■ Bashamichi Station (Minatomirai Line)
■ Nihon Odori Station (Minatomirai Line)
■ Kannai Station (JR Keihin-Tohoku and Negishi lines, and the Yokohama City Blue Line)
Delicious Detours in Yokohama Chinatown
Yokohama Chinatown, where over 600 shops packed into a compact area, is often recognized in comprehensive travel site rankings as the third most prominent Chinatown in the world after New York and Bangkok, based on factors such as location, visibility, and visitor volume.
What makes Yokohama Chinatown especially unique are its two neighboring temples: “Kuan Ti Miao”, dedicated to Guan Yu, the god of business prosperity, and “Mazu Miao”, honoring Mazu, the goddess of the sea. It’s extremely rare, even worldwide, to find both temples standing so close together.
Surrounded by ornate architecture, billowing incense smoke, and the echo of temple bells, visiting both sites offers a richly immersive spiritual experience. The vibrant decorations and ceremonial ambiance invite you to step deeper into the heart of Chinese culture.
Unlike many other Chinatowns around the world that focus mainly on restaurants, Yokohama’s version is a haven for street food lovers. It’s the perfect place to sample a wide variety of snacks while strolling through its lively streets.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
Just 5 minutes from Motomachi-Chukagai Station, you’ll find “Roishin”, home of the adorable “Panda Buns”. These cute steamed buns are almost too charming to eat—but they’re delicious, too. Filled with rich chocolate custard, Panda Buns are the ideal feel-good snacks both instagrammable and satisfying.
Additional Information
Motomachi Chukagai
Closest stations:
■ About 1 min walk from Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line)
■ About 7–10 min walk from Ishikawacho Station North Exit (JR Negishi Line)
Drawn by the Sea Breeze to the Red Brick Warehouse
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a historic brick building constructed between the late Meiji and early Taisho periods. After surviving turbulent times and undergoing major renovations, it was reborn in 2002 with much of its original charm beautifully preserved. Set against sweeping views of the Bay Bridge and Osanbashi Pier, the location offers a refreshing sea breeze and a stunning coastal backdrop.
At night, the building glows under warm amber lighting, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the illuminated harbor and romantic night views.
Building No.1 serves as a venue for dance, theater, and art events, while Building No.2 houses around 50 shops and restaurants, offering everything from lifestyle goods to gourmet dining. The stone-paved plaza between the buildings hosts seasonal markets and festivals such as Oktoberfest, making it a lively destination year-round.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
Until Sunday, August 24, you can enjoy “Hoshi to Tatazumu” — an immersive art planetarium® by Takayuki Ohira, brought to life by multiple synchronized projectors.
From September 13 (Sat) to 15 (Mon), the Burger Festival returns, gathering around 40 famous gourmet burger food trucks from across Japan. If you’re a burger lover, this is your chance to indulge.
Located on the ground floor of Building No.2, “Mono to Art” offers a gentle mix of handmade stationery, accessories, and everyday objects. Worth a look if you’re in the mood for something a little different.
Additional Information
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
1-1 Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001
Closest stations:
■ About 15 min walk from Kannai Station or Sakuragicho Station (JR / Yokohama Municipal Subway) via Kishamichi Promenade
■ About 6 min walk from Bashamichi Station or Nihon-odori Station (Minatomirai Line)
■ About 12 min walk from Minatomirai Station (Minatomirai Line)
https://www.yokohama-akarenga.jp
Instagram: @yokohamaredbrick
A Floating Wonderland in the City – Yokohama Cosmo World
One of the most iconic features of the Minatomirai skyline is the giant Ferris wheel “Cosmo Clock 21”. Its full-color LED display, capable of rendering approximately 16.7 million hues, brings added depth and brilliance to the Yokohama night view.
But the Ferris wheel is just one part of Yokohama Cosmo World, an urban amusement park divided into three themed areas: the “Wonder Amuse Zone”, “Brano Street Zone”, and “Kids’ Carnival Zone”. With around 30 attractions including roller coasters and carnival rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Just a two-minute walk from Minatomirai Station, the park is free to enter, with a pay-per-ride system. This flexible format makes it easy to drop in, plan on the go, or spend as much (or as little) time as you’d like.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
For the perfect romantic evening, take a ride on the giant ferris wheel, “Cosmo Clock 21” as part of a scenic nighttime walk. The full loop takes about 15 minutes, offering breathtaking views and an exciting sense of ascent. Out of the 60 gondolas, only four are transparent. By joining the line and giving it a try, you can enjoy an even more special experience.
Each time I see the ferris wheel, I’m taken back to Tokyo Gendai 2023, where we had the honor of creating its illumination—those memories still shimmer in my mind.
Once inside the park, you may find yourself trying a few rides on a whim… and staying longer than expected.
Additional Information
Yokohama Cosmo World
2-8-1 Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001
Closest stations:
■ Approx 10 min walk from Sakuragicho Station (JR / Yokohama Municipal Subway)
■ Approx 2 min walk from Minatomirai Station (Minatomirai Line)
https://cosmoworld.jp
X : @_cosmoworld_
A Front-Row Seat to 360 Degrees of Sky and Sea at Osanbashi Pier
The Yokohama Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal (Osanbashi Pier) is a renowned port of call for large cruise ships and one of the best scenic spots in the city, offering stunning 360-degree panoramic views. From here, you can take in the full skyline of Minato Mirai, the iconic ferris wheel, Yokohama Bay Bridge, Marine Tower, and other landmark sights all at once.
At the rooftop plaza known as “Kujira no Senaka” (The Whale’s Back), you’ll find an open space covered with natural grass and wooden decks reminiscent of a ship’s deck. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
On the way to Osanbashi, tucked away in a back alley, there’s a quirky little shop called “SDK Yokohama”. As the sign says—“Taiwan Handmade Shoes & Craft Beer”—this unique spot offers not only artisan shoes but also a selection of craft beers.
Tell the owner your preferences, and he’ll pull out a rare beer from the fridge just for you. For a local-style experience, enjoy a drink at one of the alleyway tables—it feels just like a Taiwanese night market.
Additional Information
Yokohama Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal (Osanbashi Pier)
1-1-4 Kaigan-dori, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0002
Closest stations:
■ About 7 min walk from Nihon-Odori Station Exit 3 or 4 (Minatomirai Line)
■ About 15 min walk from Kannai Station Exit 1 (Yokohama Municipal Subway)
■ About 15 min walk from Kannai Station South Exit (JR Lines)
https://osanbashi.jp
Instagram: @osanbashi_terminal
Bar-Hopping in Noge with Showa Nostalgia
If you love art, Noge is a street-level gallery of Showa Japan memories. Rustic cafés, aging live venues, and charming hand-drawn signs decorate a neighborhood where every corner offers a visual surprise. Just wandering around becomes its own creative experience.
On the edge of the bustling downtown lies the Noge Miyakobashi Shopping Arcade, also known as Harmonica Yokocho—a place where you can soak up the nostalgic charm of the Showa era. About 60 tiny bars and eateries line the curved two-story structure along the cherry-lined Ooka River, making it ideal for small groups.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
The back alleys of Noge are a nonstop photo opportunity. Showa-era retro signs, faded walls, and the interplay of neon lights and shadows create an incredibly rich atmosphere. The aging buildings, hand-painted signs, and the overall sense of story in the space make the entire neighborhood feel like one big art installation.
Noge is a haven for drink lovers and also a mecca for street performers, with jazz cafés and indie movie theaters nearby. Popular spots include the yakitori restaurant “Noge Suehiro” and the good-old diner “Center Grill.”
Additional Information
Noge area
■ Accessible from Sakuragicho Station and Kannai Station (JR Lines)
■ Accessible from Hinodecho Station (Keikyu Line)
Wander Seaside Streets at MARINE & WALK
Located right next to the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, MARINE & WALK is an open-air shopping complex that feels like a high-end resort mall you might find overseas. Surrounded by greenery and ocean views, it offers a refined shopping experience that feels more like a relaxed city stroll.
The complex features a carefully curated lineup of international brands, including “Ron Herman” from California, “COS” from London, and “Denham” from Amsterdam, as well as trendsetting Japanese labels like “NEIGHBORHOOD” from Harajuku. Dining options are equally appealing — from “Pie Holic”, a pie specialty shop, and “Miguel Juani”, known for its paella, to “ZEBRA”, a café offering artisanal croissants and carefully brewed coffee. Many of the cafes and restaurants come with ocean-view terrace seating, perfect for a leisurely break.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
MARINE & WALK is also beloved by dog lovers. It features pet-friendly shops, restaurants that welcome pets, dedicated rest areas, and even water fountains just for dogs. Several photo spots are popular on social media. If you snap a photo of your pet standing in front of the angel wings wall art, the results are irresistibly cute.
Additional Information
MARINE & WALK YOKOHAMA
1-3-1 Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001
Closest stations:
■ About 9 min walk from Bashamichi Station Exit 6 (Minatomirai Line)
■ About 9 min walk from Nihon-odori Station (Minatomirai Line)
■ About 12 min walk from Minatomirai Station (Minatomirai Line)
■ About 15 min walk from Sakuragicho Station (JR / Yokohama Municipal Subway Lines) via Kishamichi Promenade
https://marineandwalk.jp
Instagram: @marineandwalk
Direct from the Station, Straight into Style – NEWoMan Yokohama
NEWoMan Yokohama, themed as a place continuously creating stories—“STORY…ING”—offers the unique appeal of being directly connected to the station while allowing visitors to casually encounter art during their commute or shopping trips.
In the “NEWoMan ART Window” series, which decorates shop windows as gallery spaces, many impressive artworks have been presented so far. These include large-scale works by ken yashiki, who uses traditional doll-making techniques and recycled clothing as materials; Takaaki Kato’s visually dynamic paintings that change appearance depending on the viewing angle; and Ayaka Endo’s nature-themed pieces displayed alongside lace curtains inspired by photography. Each artist takes advantage of the deep, three-dimensional nature of the window displays to present diverse forms of expression.
The first-floor walls inside the building also serve as a gallery wall for a permanent exhibition called the “Wall Street Museum”, co-curated in collaboration with The Chain Museum.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
Being directly connected to the station means you can visit without getting wet on rainy days, and on extremely hot days, you can cool off inside the air-conditioned space while enjoying art or window shopping… a lifesaver!
I also like the stylish atmosphere of NEWoMan Yokohama’s “Food Hall”, which stands apart from a typical food court. The design thoughtfully supports a modern lifestyle for working women throughout the space.
Additional Information
NEWoMan Yokohama
1-1-1 Minamisaiwai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0005
Closest stations:
■ Just steps from Yokohama Station Central North or Central South Exit (JR Lines)
■ Accessible from the West Exit gates of Yokohama Station (Tokyu Toyoko Line, Sotetsu Line, Yokohama Municipal Subway, Minatomirai Line, and Keikyu Line)
https://www.newoman.jp/yokohama/
Instagram: @newoman.yokohama
Yokohama Takashimaya — Premium Picks Just Outside the West Exit
Opened during the Showa era and situated near Yokohama Station’s West Exit, Yokohama Takashimaya remains deeply connected to the community. Sensitive to the changing times, it continues to propose new value through an elevated offering of fashion, dining, and everyday access to art and culture.
Quietly thriving within this space is the Yokohama Takashimaya Art Gallery on the 7th floor. It hosts weekly solo and special exhibitions featuring a diverse range of genres including painting, ceramics, sculpture, lacquerware, metalwork, and glass art. The world of each artist gently speaks to the hearts of visitors. The gallery is operated by the Takashimaya Art Department, which is approaching its 120th anniversary. Besides Yokohama, Takashimaya galleries in Nihonbashi and Shinjuku also hold unique exhibitions, serving as hubs for diverse artistic and cultural expressions.
Escaping the hustle and bustle, spending quiet time in front of the artworks promises to bring deep peace to everyday life.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
If you carve out a little time during your shopping trip to visit the Yokohama Takashimaya Art Gallery, you can experience a calm atmosphere and a wide variety of artworks. Exhibitions change frequently, so I keep up with the latest information through the official Yokohama Takashimaya Art Gallery Instagram.
The easy access makes it even more convenient to drop by casually.
Additional Information
Yokohama Takashimaya 1-6-31 Minamisaiwai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-8601
Closest stations:
■ About 1 min walk from Yokohama Station West Exit
■ Accessible from JR Yokohama Station South Exit
https://www.takashimaya.co.jp/yokohama/
Instagram: @takashimaya_yokohama @takashimaya_art_yokohama
The Westin Yokohama — Recharge with the Harbor View
The Westin Yokohama is the newest premium lifestyle and wellness hotel in Yokohama.
Located in the heart of the Minato Mirai district and just a 25-minute drive from Haneda Airport, the hotel offers convenient access to popular sightseeing spots and the historic port area.
Wellness is a central theme of the hotel, reflected in the six pillars of well-being—such as “Sleep Well” and “Eat Well”—designed to support guests’ physical and mental balance. Over 1,000 square meters on the 5th floor are dedicated to wellness, featuring the serene, white-tea-scented Heavenly Spa by Westin™, a state-of-the-art fitness studio, and an indoor pool.
The 373 spacious guest rooms are thoughtfully designed, with some offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Dining options include the signature restaurant “Iron Bay”, where guests can enjoy wood-fired cuisine, among other refined experiences.
Tokyo Gendai Staff Picks
The Westin Yokohama offers a calm and comfortable setting for unwinding between art fairs or after a day of exploring the city.
The bright and serene atmosphere of the Heavenly Spa provides a quiet space to relax, and the hotel’s restaurants and bars serve thoughtful dishes with beautiful views over the port at night.
Additional Information
The Westin Yokohama
4-2-8 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa
Closest stations:
■ About 6 min walk from Minatomirai Station Exit 1
https://www.marriott.com/ja/hotels/tyowy-the-westin-yokohama/overview/
Instagram: @westinyokohama
Stay tuned for part 2 in late August!
Part 2 will be exclusive for subscribers only. Register now to receive your guide to make the most of your time in Yokohama before and after Tokyo Gendai.
