Yokohama is the Perfect Day Trip
Extend your fun in Tokyo
No one is going to argue that Tokyo isn’t one of the best cities on earth. It has a lifetime’s worth of fine dining, creative cultural experiences, and room to explore everything from anime to fashion subcultures. But if you’re considering expanding your bucket list trip to include life outside of Japan’s capital, Yokohama is a great place to start.
Hear us out. Not only is Yokohama Japan’s second largest city, it’s located only 30 minutes outside of central Tokyo. You can also connect via Tokyo’s subway (JR Tokaido line, Yokosuka line or Keihin-Tohoku line) so transit is a no-brainer. If you’re flying in and out of Haneda, we’ve got some great news—you’re already in Yokohama’s backyard.
Before we get into the why and how of a visit to the city, have some brief history. Located on a harbor, Yokohama once served as the port of Japan. Because it was one of the first places to open after the country’s policy of seclusion was suspended in 1859, it was where the mixing of minds and melding of cultures began, making it the practical birthplace of modern Japan. And of course, plenty of people came to stay. Fast-forward to today: the city now has a population of 3.7 million. Unsurprisingly, many residents commute into Tokyo for work, but Yokohama has a distinct flavor of its own.
Since there’s plenty to see, we’ve narrowed down a few itinerary suggestions for your day in Yokohama.
Embrace innovation at Cup Noodles Factory
Start at the Cup Noodles Museum. Admittedly, you’ll probably visit for the novelty of crafting your own Cup Noodles at the My Cup Noodle Factory. (Coloring in their iconic logo can bring out the childlike creativity in even the most hesitant of artists.) But there’s plenty of history behind one of Japan’s most beloved snack foods, and the founder Momofuku Ando’s desire to raise the level of innovation within the industry. Prepare for some unexpected inspiration and some extremely fun hands-on exhibits.
Ride the world’s biggest Ferris wheel…with a clock
Located right across the street from Cup Noodles is Yokohama Cosmoworld, a free mini-theme park where ride tickets can be purchased individually. Most can be easily skipped—unless you’re a haunted house aficionado you can probably give their “choose your own level of scary” ride a miss. (But if you do, go for the “scary as hell” option!) But the park is the home to the Cosmo Clock 21, which between the years of 1989 and 1992 was the world’s tallest Ferris wheel. It’s still the world’s largest Ferris wheel…with clock, an iconic element in the city skyline, and a fun way to see the area from a dramatically different angle. Ultimate daredevils will also appreciate the see-through gondola for a dramatically different take on glass-bottom boat rides.
Visit a whole different culture in Asia’s largest Chinatown
Sure, you’ve invested in visiting and exploring Japan. But why not get more for your money and swing by Asia’s largest Chinatown for a look at a different culture? With over 600 different shops, this is a snacker and shopper’s paradise. Munch on pork buns, sample specialties from Shanghai, Beijing, and Sichuan—or sneak in another culture with a Vietnamese egg coffee and banh mi at CAFÉ GIẢNG.
Red Brick Warehouse
If you’d prefer to stay mentally anchored in Japan, Aka-Renga Soko, aka Red Brick Warehouse is a strong lunch option. The former customs house now hosts over 40 restaurants which serve specialties from Japan, China, Hawaii, Korea, Spain, and even American-style burgers and salad. If you’re on the hunt for souvenirs and gifts, they’ve also got you covered with three floors (located across two buildings) of local venders.
Sankeien Garden
While much of Yokohama is rooted in modernism, you can take a gorgeous trip back in time at Sankeien Garden. Located in southern Yokohama, the park features a series of historic buildings from across Japan, tea houses, and pagoda, formerly housed Kyoto’s Tomyoji Temple. It’s also a local favorite for the seasonal flora, so you’re likely to get a stunning photo, regardless of the season.
Get your geek on at Gundam Factory
Gundam took its first steps in December of 2020. The 18-meter tall robot has been attracting clouds ever since for its twice-hourly shows. If you’re a hardcore fan opt for a ticket that allows you to watch from the upper deck, essentially putting you eye-level with the famed warrior as he walks, takes a knee and even plays rock/paper/scissors. Casual fans will enjoy watching from the café deck, where you can lounge and sip on coffees and tea with foam art of the character’s face. The reign of the Gundam was just extended until March 31, 2024—so plan accordingly.
Look over at all at Marine Tower
Within walking distance of Gundam Marine Tower, a 106-meter-high tower that glows like lace at night. Built in 1961 in honor of the port’s 100th anniversary, the tower doubles at the tallest land lighthouse in the world. Going up provides stunning views of the east Tokyo Bay, and an intimate look at the light projections mapped out across the interior windows.
Grab one last nightcap in Noge
If you’re still not in the mood to head back to Tokyo, head to Noge instead, a densely packed district filled with izakaya (Japanese taverns), Tachinomiya (standing room only drinking spots), and all manner of bistro and cheap eating spots. The fun here is simply walking around without a plan, people watching for a bit, and stopping wherever looks good. So, don’t get too in your head, follow the music, and enjoy the ride. But if you simply must have a starting point, Beef Kitchen, with its small plates, cheap drinks, and packed patio, is a fun place to kick off your afterhours adventures.
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