Yokohama, a mere 30-minute train ride from Tokyo, stands as a beacon of cosmopolitan charm and historical significance.
From its pioneering past to its modern-day allure, this city captivates with a blend of creative arts, culinary delights, and quirky attractions. What makes Yokohama a must-visit destination?
Ramen Time Capsule
Step into Japan’s first ramen amusement park at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum (€3 entry). This quirky museum recreates a 1958 Tokyo streetscape with 9 mini-ramen shops serving regional specialties, like Sapporo miso ramen (€6) – Rich, buttery broth with corn.
Pro Tip: Order “mini ramen” (half-size, €3 ) to sample multiple bowls.
Transport: 5-min walk from Shin-Yokohama Station (€1.50 from Tokyo).
Sky Garden Views
Ride Japan’s fastest elevator (40 seconds) to Landmark Tower Sky Garden (€12 entry). The 69th-floor deck offers 360° views of Mt. Fuji (visible 60 clear days/year). Sunset slots (5 PM) sell out fast—book online.
Nearby: Sip matcha lattes at Cafe Tessel (€5) with tower vistas.
Noodle Nostalgia
Design custom Cup Noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum (€4 workshop). Exhibits trace Momofuku Ando’s 1956 invention—don’t miss the Chicken Ramen Tunnel (free entry). Grab limited-edition flavors like tom yum (€3) at the shop.
Detour: Ramen Museum (€6 entry) offers 9 regional ramen bowls (€8 each).
Minato Mirai Magic
Stroll Minato Mirai’s waterfront, passing the Nippon Maru sailing ship (€8 tour). Shop at Aka-renga Sōkō’s boutiques or catch live music at Greenroom Festival (Sept, €30 tickets). End at Zou-no-hana Park for sunset picnics.
Dining: Bills Yokohama serves ricotta pancakes (€12) with bay views.
Cosmo World Thrills
Ride the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel (€8) for neon-lit night views. Dare the Vanish rollercoaster (€10), plunging into a water tunnel. Kids love the Dinosaur Train (€5).
Snacks: bear-shaped cakes (€3) or Kua’Aina burgers (€9).
Jazz Journeys
October’s Jazz Promenade (free–€20 tickets) hosts 2000 artists across 50 venues. Year-round, catch live sessions at Bar Bar Bar (€12 cover, 8 PM sets) or Jazz Bar Venus (€10, intimate duets).
Hidden Spot: Ben Tenuto’s robot pianist “Ben-chan” charms with jazz standards.
Waterfront Walks
Follow the Kisha-michi Promenade (free) from Yokohama Museum of Art (€12 entry) to Marine & Walk mall. Rent e-scooters (€10/hour) for bayside zips.
Photo Op: Yokohama Hammerhead’s rooftop garden (free) frames the Bay Bridge.
Budget Tips
Save with the Yokohama Minatomirai Pass (€15/day for trains, buses, and attractions). Free Fun: Sankeien Garden’s historic tea houses (€0, 10 AM–5 PM).
When to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms at Yamashita Park.
- Summer (June–Aug): Pikachu Outbreak parade (free).
- Fall (Sept–Nov): Jazz festivals and mild temps (18–22°C).
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Yokohama Holiday Market (hot yaki-mochi €3).
Conclusion
Yokohama’s mix of historic ports, culinary creativity, and coastal cool offers endless discovery. From sky decks to jazz, every corner pulses with energy—minus Tokyo’s frenzy.
