YOKOHAMA, JAPAN

Yokohama, famous for its extensive China Town, is a Japanese city south of Tokyo; it was one of the first Japanese ports opened to foreign trade in 1859. Yokohama is the most populated area outside of Tokyo, with an estimated 3.7 million people! So you can see why the station is one of the busiest in the world and is always bustling with people. So here is what you should do to explore Yokohama in 1 day.

Things to know before you explore Yokohama in 1 day 

Getting there 

Tokyo to Yokohama by train

The best way to get to Yokohama from Naka Meguro is one train ride to Motomachi Chukagai station. It takes approximately 55 minutes (including walking time to Chinatown). There are many ways to head down to Yokohama; however, I found the easiest way is by train. Hop onto the Minatomirai line, and then it is a short walk from the station to Chinatown. I like using Rome2rio for assistance. 

Tokyo to Yokohama by car

It is pretty easy to drive (I have driven myself in the past), it should take approximately 30 minutes, and parking is simple too. There are a few parking stations close to Chinatown. If you choose to hire a car, then try booking.com for all your rental needs.

Weather – Yokohama in 1 day 

Yokohama has a humid subtropical climate. Summer (Jun-Sep) and so it is hot. On the other hand, winter (Dec–Feb) is mild and, on rare occasions, can snow.

Visa

Check ivisa regarding visa requirements. Ivisa’s quick and easy system is an efficient way to organise your required visas online. It is the best way to ensure you aren’t caught looking silly when you arrive at immigration.

Insurance

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Where to stay to explore Yokohama in 1 day 

We stayed at the Yokohama Bay Sheraton, conveniently located across the road from Yokohama station. I loved this area of Yokohama, as it was easy to get to the place via the station and great eateries and fabulous shopping was all within walking distance.  

Your day starts here to explore Yokohama

Motomachi 

An early morning stroll through Motomachi shopping street will see you walk back in time. The road was established in 1888 when many foreign visitors arrived at the Yokohama seaport, where east met west. This street will see you walking along cobbled streets and browsing the little boutiques that make you feel like you are in a town in Europe. 

Things to eat – Try ducking into the very first bakery in Japan called Uchiki Pan for a fresh pastry or two

Yokohama Chinatown

Spend a few hours enjoying Japan’s largest Chinatown and discovering many shops and restaurants. This bustling area is always busy, but you will see loads of queues for many restaurants and food vendors at lunchtime. 

Things to eat – You can not go past trying the pandaman chocolate steamed buns, which is what people head to Chinatown to try. 

Yokohama Cosmo World

Depending on the weather, you could head to Yokohama Cosmo World (just a few short stops on the train) and spend the afternoon as a big kid in the Minato Mirai district. You will not be able to miss it, as it is currently the world’s most giant clock-faced Ferris wheel. Although the amusement park isn’t huge, it will have enough to entertain you and the kids. Tip – You can also go back at night and watch the Ferris wheel light up! 

Cup Noodle Museum

If the weather isn’t great, head across the road (literally) to explore the cup noodle museum; you can pop in to explore where cup noodles originated. Ensure you arrive early enough to book a time slot to make your noodles; this is especially fun for kids.

Things to eat – Stop for lunch at this great location with the many different types of noodle choices (or make your own). For more information, check out Cup Noodle Factory. 

Yokohama Station

Head over to Yokohama Station, which is located in the Nishi Ward. From here, you will find the Takashimaya department store and loads of little streets full of local restaurants and boutique-style shops. This station is crazy busy and is currently ranked as one of the top ten busiest stations in the world, so you should try to avoid rush hour if possible. 

Things to eat – Try Nagaska Sarashina Tahei, the best soba noodles I have tasted in a long time. This restaurant has been running for over 100 years, and you can find it in the Takashimaya shopping centre on the 8th floor. 

The highlight of the day – While at Yokohama Station, ensure you arrive during rush hour. The number of people will astound you! I always thought the Shibuya crossing was hectic until I caught a train during rush hour at this station. 

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