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12 Amazing Things to Do in Yokohama 2024

ViaHero

Updated September 17, 2023

Travelers often miss out on Yokohama—but they really, really shouldn’t. The second-largest city in Japan, Yokohama is packed with awesome stuff to do. Check it all out here. Any questions? Drop us a line.

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Meet Yokohama, Tokyo’s (maybe more awesome?) twin

Just because Tokyo is the biggest city in Japan doesn’t mean it’s the best. And while there are a bunch of cool things to do in Tokyo, there are just as many—if not, more—in Yokohama! One of Japan’s first trade ports, this seaside city is home to some of the coolest places in Japan.

#1: Shop and sightsee at Minato Mirai

Home to high-rise towers and flashy lights, Minato Mirai certainly lives up to its literal name, “Harbor of the Future.” You can view the skyline from afar or dive right in and do some shopping. Either way, you’ll want to add this Yokohama highlight to your Japan travel itinerary.

#2: View Yokohama from above at Landmark Tower

The tallest place for 360 views of Yokohama and home the fastest elevators in the country, Landmark Tower makes Yokohama one of the best cities to visit in Japan. Soak up all of the city’s bright vibes by seeing this skyscraper at night—which is hands-down the best time to visit!

#3: Cross Yokohama Bay Bridge by car or on foot

Pretty much the Brooklyn Bridge’s Japanese counterpart, Yokohama Bay Bridge connects Yokohama port to Tokyo port. Take the “Sky Walk” pedestrian path to cross by foot, or take an Uber over the bridge for a fun day trip up to Tokyo.

#4: Stroll along the Osanbashi Pier

Whether you’re boarding a boat or just strolling along the pier, this waterfront promenade will give you all the chill seaside vibes that Yokohama is famous for! Easily accessible by bus and entirely free, the newly renovated park is perfect for both last minute travel and budget travel!

#5: Gaze in awe at the Kanagawa Shimbun Fireworks Festival

Reeling in nearly a million visitors each summer, the Kanagawa Shimbun Fireworks Festival is the best and biggest festival in Yokohama. Ask your travel guru about joining in on the fun and dressing up in traditional yukata for the festival. If it’s not already on your Japan itinerary, we bet it is now.

#6: Watch a Yokohama vs. Tokyo baseball game

And you thought the Yankees and Red Sox rivalry was bad… think again! Yes, Japan has a professional baseball league, and the rivalry between Yokohama’s DeNA BayStars and the Tokyo Giants runs deep. First time in Japan? You’ll want to catch a game and see this rivalry in action. And don’t worry about getting there, Japanese Rail Passes make it easy to get to and from stadiums.

#7: Bike around Yamashita Park

Another seaside walkway, Yamashita Park is the perfect place to see Yokohama by bike. Cruise along the waterfront by bicycle for picturesque views of Yokohama Bay Bridge. Sit back and watch the boats roll by. Or, ask a local Hero how to best enjoy the park.

#8: Seek serenity at Shomyoji Temple

Sure, you’ve seen a typical Japanese temple, but Shomyoji Temple is a unique wooden temple, tucked away peacefully in the center of the city. This hidden Japanese treasure is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a bit of serenity in Yokohama’s big, bustling city.

#9: Eat your heart out at the Ramen Museum

Even though ramen was originally created by the Chinese, it’s since become a Japanese foodie phenomenon. They even have a museum dedicated to it—a perfect Japanese foodie destination! When planning your trip to Japan, be sure to ask your travel planner to book your tickets in advance to avoid the line.

#10: Take the kids to the Cup Noodles Museum

If you’re not already noodled out from all the ramen, then add the Cup Noodles Museum to your Japan to do list! Yokohama boasts being the only place in the world where you can design your very own cup noodles package. Plus, you leave with a great snack to bring home from Japan.

#11: Experience thrills at Cosmo World

If you’re an adventure-seeker, then Cosmo World is the next stop on your Japan itinerary. With a giant Ferris wheel that makes up part of the infamous Yokohama skyline and roller coasters and rides galore, this is definitely where to go in Japan for the best thrills!

#12: Shake it up and visit Yokohama’s Chinatown

Okay, hear us out—it might sound a bit odd going to a Chinatown in Japan, but you really don’t want to miss seeing one of the largest ones in the world! Even ask one of our Heroes—it’s a must-do for your trip to Japan. Most tourists wouldn’t think to visit, but it’s our pro tip for travelers looking for unique experiences in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Ready head to Japan? We thought so! Our local trip planners are here and ready to create your perfect trip! Or, if you still have questions, feel free to message us. And before your trip, make sure to check out:

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