1-Day Yokohama Adventure: Unexplored Sites with Friends

Yokohama, Japan

1 days

Ship approaching the city port
Cityscape at night
Yamashita park and Marine Tower
Red Brick Warehouse and park
Chinese temple Kuan Ti Miao

About Yokohama, Japan

Discover the vibrant city of Yokohama, Japan's second-largest city, known for its stunning skyline, beautiful waterfront, and rich cultural heritage. Explore the bustling Chinatown, the largest in Asia, offering a plethora of authentic cuisine. Visit the iconic Yokohama Landmark Tower for panoramic views of the city or enjoy a romantic walk at Yamashita Park. Experience the fusion of tradition and modernity at Minato Mirai, a seaside urban area with shopping centers, hotels, a convention center, an amusement park, hot-spring baths, museums and parks. Don't miss the Cup Noodles Museum, an interactive food education center where you can create your own original cup noodle. With its diverse attractions, Yokohama offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every traveler's taste.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Beauty and Culture of Yokohama

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Yokohama Sankeien Garden, a traditional Japanese-style garden. Here, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere, explore the historic buildings, and take in the beautiful views of the seasonal flowers and trees.

Lunch

Head to a local restaurant in Chinatown for lunch. Yokohama's Chinatown is the largest in Japan and offers a wide range of authentic Chinese cuisine. After lunch, take a stroll around the vibrant streets of the neighborhood.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Yokohama Museum of Art. The museum houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art. Don't miss the chance to see works by world-renowned artists.

Dinner

For dinner, try some local Japanese cuisine in a restaurant located in the Minato Mirai area. This area is known for its stunning night views of the cityscape and harbor.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Yokohama waterfront. The area is beautifully lit at night, offering a romantic atmosphere and stunning views of the city skyline.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Sankeien Garden

1
Sankeien Garden

Experience the beauty of traditional Japanese landscape at Sankeien Garden, a spacious Japanese-style garden.

Parks
Gardens
Cultural Experiences
Chinatown

2
Chinatown

One of the world's largest Chinatowns, offering a wide variety of Chinese restaurants and shops.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Yokohama Museum of Art

3
Yokohama Museum of Art

Visit the Yokohama Museum of Art, known for its collection of contemporary art.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Minato Mirai

4
Minato Mirai

A seaside urban area whose name means 'Harbor of the Future', featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Attractions
Shopping
Entertainment
Architecture
Yokohama waterfront

5
Yokohama waterfront

A beautiful waterfront area with a stunning skyline, featuring attractions like the Yokohama Cosmo World amusement park, the Yokohama Landmark Tower, and the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse shopping complex.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ramen

Ramen

Yokohama is known for its unique style of ramen, which typically features a soy-based broth and is often served with a variety of toppings such as green onions, bamboo shoots, and slices of pork.

Nikuman

Nikuman

Nikuman is a popular street food in Yokohama. It's a steamed bun filled with savory pork and often enjoyed during the colder months.

Gyukatsu Motomura

Gyukatsu Motomura is a popular dish in Yokohama, featuring breaded and deep-fried beef cutlet served with a variety of sauces.

Shumai

Shumai

Shumai is a type of steamed dumpling that originated in Yokohama's Chinatown. It's typically filled with a mixture of pork and shrimp.

Yokohama Curry

Yokohama Curry

Yokohama Curry is a unique style of curry that's thicker and sweeter than other Japanese curries. It's often served with rice and pickled vegetables.

Yokohama Bireley's Orange

Yokohama Bireley's Orange is a popular soft drink in Yokohama, known for its refreshing and tangy orange flavor.

Ankake Yakisoba

Ankake Yakisoba is a popular dish in Yokohama, featuring stir-fried noodles topped with a thick, soy-based sauce and a variety of vegetables.

Kiyoken Shumai Bento

Kiyoken Shumai Bento is a popular take-out meal in Yokohama, featuring a variety of dishes including the city's famous shumai dumplings.

Hamaguri Clams

Hamaguri Clams are a local delicacy in Yokohama, often served in a simple broth to highlight their natural sweetness.

Yokohama Craft Beer

Yokohama is home to several craft breweries, and trying local craft beer is a must for any beer enthusiast visiting the city.

Yokohama Milk Pudding

Yokohama Milk Pudding is a popular dessert in the city, known for its creamy texture and sweet, milky flavor.

Yokohama Bay Stars Beer

Yokohama Bay Stars Beer is a popular local beer, named after the city's professional baseball team, the Yokohama Bay Stars.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Yokohama, Japan, is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring is particularly popular due to the beautiful cherry blossom season, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. However, it's worth noting that these are also peak tourist seasons, so attractions may be crowded and prices may be higher. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of early June or late November.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 8

Mon

Coming of Age Day

February 11

Sun

National Foundation Day

February 12

Mon

National Foundation Day observed

February 23

Fri

Emperor's Birthday

March 20

Wed

Spring Equinox

April 29

Mon

Shōwa Day

May 3

Fri

Constitution Memorial Day

May 4

Sat

Greenery Day

May 5

Sun

Children's Day

May 6

Mon

Children's Day observed

July 15

Mon

Sea Day

August 11

Sun

Mountain Day

August 12

Mon

Day off for Mountain Day

September 16

Mon

Respect for the Aged Day

September 22

Sun

Autumn Equinox

September 23

Mon

Autumn Equinox observed

October 14

Mon

Sports Day

November 3

Sun

Culture Day

November 4

Mon

Culture Day observed

November 23

Sat

Labor Thanksgiving Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Yokohama is well-connected by train services. The JR East's Negishi Line connects Yokohama Station with the city's main attractions such as Chinatown and Yamashita Park. The Minatomirai Line offers a direct connection from Yokohama Station to Minatomirai and Motomachi-Chukagai stations.

Buses are a convenient way to get around Yokohama. The city's extensive bus network covers areas not serviced by trains. The Akai Kutsu Bus is a sightseeing loop bus that stops at major tourist spots.

The Yokohama Municipal Subway provides access to various parts of the city. The Blue Line runs from Shonandai to Azamino, passing through Yokohama Station.

Taxis are readily available throughout Yokohama. They can be hailed on the street, found at taxi ranks, or booked in advance. They offer a convenient but more expensive way to travel around the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Yokohama. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're unfamiliar with the public transportation system or if you're traveling in a group.

Yokohama is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycling paths and bike rental services. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Many of Yokohama's attractions are within walking distance of each other, particularly in the Minato Mirai area. Walking is a great way to explore the city and take in the sights.

The Sea Bass ferry service operates between Yokohama Station East Exit, Minato Mirai and Yamashita Park. It's a scenic way to travel and offers great views of the Yokohama skyline.

Rental cars are available in Yokohama, but it's worth noting that traffic can be heavy and parking can be expensive and hard to find. It's a good option if you plan to travel outside the city.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency¥ JPY

Time zoneUTC+9

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage100 V

Things to know about Yokohama, Japan as a first time visitor

1

Yokohama is Japan's second-largest city with a population of over three million.

2

The city is located less than half an hour south of Tokyo by train, and is the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture.

3

While Yokohama appears to lie in the humid subtropical climate zone, it is borderline with the humid continental climate, with average temperatures ranging from 37.4°F (3°C) in January to 78.8°F (26°C) in August.

4

The official language is Japanese, but English is commonly understood in many places frequented by tourists.

5

The currency used is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or street vendors.

6

Yokohama is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's wise to stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings.

7

Public transportation is efficient and reliable, with a comprehensive network of trains, subways, and buses. The Pasmo or Suica card can be used for all modes of public transport.

8

Taxis are readily available but can be expensive. They are metered and charge based on distance traveled.

9

Yokohama has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels.

10

The city is known for its stunning waterfront, with a number of parks and walking paths offering great views of the city skyline.

11

Yokohama is a port city and has a vibrant and diverse food scene, with a particular emphasis on seafood.

12

The city is also famous for its craft beer, with a number of breweries offering tours and tastings.

13

Yokohama has a number of shopping districts, with options ranging from high-end designer boutiques to local markets.

14

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and can sometimes be seen as insulting. Service charges are usually included in the bill.

15

The city has a rich history and culture, with a number of museums and galleries showcasing local art and history.

16

Yokohama has a vibrant nightlife, with a number of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

17

The city is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Yokohama Port Festival and the Yokohama Sparkling Twilight.

18

It's recommended to purchase a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on Japan Rail trains, which can be a cost-effective way to explore the city and surrounding areas.

19

Yokohama has a number of public baths, or 'onsen', which are a key part of Japanese culture. Remember to follow the etiquette rules when visiting.

20

The city is also home to a number of beautiful gardens and parks, which are particularly stunning during cherry blossom season in the spring.

Basic Japanese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

こんにちは

Konnichiwa

Greeting someone

Goodbye

さようなら

Sayonara

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Thank you

ありがとう

Arigatou

Expressing gratitude

Please

お願いします

Onegaishimasu

Making a request

Yes

はい

Hai

Agreeing or confirming

No

いいえ

Iie

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

すみません

Sumimasen

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

ごめんなさい

Gomen nasai

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

英語を話せますか?

Eigo o hanasemasu ka?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

わかりません

Wakarimasen

Not understanding what was said

Where is the bathroom?

トイレはどこですか?

Toire wa doko desu ka?

Asking for the location of the bathroom

How much does this cost?

これはいくらですか?

Kore wa ikura desu ka?

Asking the price of something

I would like this

これをください

Kore o kudasai

Requesting a specific item

Help

助けて

Tasukete

In need of assistance

Can I use credit card?

クレジットカードは使えますか?

Kurejitto ka-do wa tsukaemasu ka?

Asking if a place accepts credit cards

Where is...?

...はどこですか?

...wa doko desu ka?

Asking for a location

Good morning

おはようございます

Ohayou gozaimasu

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

おやすみなさい

Oyasuminasai

Saying goodbye in the evening or before bed

I'm lost

迷子になりました

Maigo ni narimashita

When you are lost

Call a doctor

医者を呼んでください

Isha o yonde kudasai

In case of a medical emergency

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sweater or jacket (depending on the season)

  • Raincoat or umbrella (if rain is forecasted)

  • Socks and underwear

  • Hat and sunglasses

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrush

  • Deodorant

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Travel-sized lotion

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Japanese Yen)

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contact information

  • Map of Yokohama

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter (Japan uses Type A and B plugs)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Yokohama

  • Phrasebook or language app (Japanese)

  • Backpack or daypack

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • First aid kit

  • Tissues

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Yokohama, Japan, it's important to consider the city's weather patterns to ensure you pack appropriately and make the most of your visit. Yokohama experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means it has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Yokohama, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). It's also the season of cherry blossoms, which makes for picturesque views. Summer (June to August) in Yokohama can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 85°F (29°C). It's also the rainy season, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat. Despite the rain, summer is a vibrant time in Yokohama with many festivals taking place. Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The city is adorned with beautiful autumn leaves, making it a photographer's paradise. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 35°F (2°C) at the lowest. Snowfall is rare but possible, so pack warm clothing if you're visiting during this season. Regardless of the season, it's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for any unexpected changes in weather. Also, remember that the weather can vary between different parts of the city, so plan your activities accordingly.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

10° / -1°

January is the coldest month in Yokohama, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather, but make sure to pack warm clothing.

February

11° / 0°

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a quiet time to visit, with fewer tourists around.

March

15° / 3°

March sees the start of spring in Yokohama, with temperatures becoming more comfortable. Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month, making it a beautiful time to visit.

April

20° / 8°

April is a popular time to visit Yokohama due to the full bloom of cherry blossoms. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities.

May

25° / 13°

May brings warm weather and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit parks and gardens in Yokohama.

June

28° / 18°

June marks the start of the rainy season in Yokohama. Despite the rain, temperatures are warm and it's still a good time to visit indoor attractions.

July

32° / 22°

July is the hottest month in Yokohama, with high humidity levels. It's a great time to visit beaches and enjoy water activities.

August

34° / 24°

August continues the hot and humid trend of July. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

September

30° / 20°

September sees the end of the hot summer weather, with temperatures starting to cool down. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities as the weather is still warm but not too hot.

October

24° / 14°

October brings cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time to visit parks and gardens in Yokohama.

November

18° / 8°

November is a pleasant month with mild temperatures. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds.

December

12° / 2°

December is a cool month in Yokohama, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather, but make sure to pack warm clothing.

Did you know?

Did you know that Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan by population, after Tokyo?

1 of 10

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