Yokohama day trip guide

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Yokohama, Japan is the second largest city in Japan and often overshadowed by its close neighbor, Tokyo. It contains endless food options, world’s largest China town, and was one of the first Port’s to be opened for foreign trade. With easy access from Tokyo, a Yokohama day trip is well worth it. Like any major city, you can’t fit in everything in one day, but here is a good list to help you plan the perfect Tokyo getaway.

Yokohama Day Trip Guide

To do

Take a ride on the fastest Elevator in Japan (and drool over the stunning views)

Landmark Tower is one of the main buildings in downtown Yokohama and as far as tower views go, it is hard to beat. Views of the Bay, Tokyo, the Ferris wheel and even Fujisan on a clear day. If you have been walking for a large portion of the day this is the perfect place to kick up your feet and enjoy a coffee (or beer). It costs 1,000 yen so you will want to enjoy it for a little while. Take Japan’s fastest elevator back down for the rest of your day.

Ride the Cosmo Clock 21

The Cosmo Clock is the largest Ferris Wheel with surprise, a clock. With views of Landmark Tower, and the water, it is a great way to see the city.

Explore Chinatown

One of the world’s largest Chinatown, this area is filled with amazing food, small souvenir shops and a beautiful area to walk around. Here is where you should try drool-worthy dumplings and matcha icecream. Ice Cream will greet you at EVERY corner so try all the flavors, judgement free.

Cup of Noodle Museum

This museum is concise, doesn’t take too much time and is interactive. Perfect for kids but as an adult I have been many times and it never gets old for me. The history of Momofuku Ando, and his achievement is fascinating and an inspiring story we should all hear! Their website has their hours and all the info you will need. It is 500 yen to see the museum and 300 yen to decorate and create your own cup.

Attend a baseball game (Go Bay Stars)!

Whether this is in Yokohama or Tokyo I HIGHLY suggest you visit a baseball game when in Japan! The Yokohama Stadium is beautiful and you are able to bring in your own cheap eats and drinks! Buy your tickets at a convenience store, online or if sold out try to go day of for standing room only. Chinatown is walking distance to the stadium so plan them together if you want to do both!

Visit the Sankei-en Garden

This garden is a little off the beaten path, but if you love Japanese tranquil gardens this is for you. Take bus 8 or 128 to Sankeien-Iriguchi from Yokohama station, or take a taxi. The admission is 700 yen and is open from 9-5pm, except for a week during peak Cherry Blossom season when it is open into the night (worth it if you are here for that)!

Check for events at Red Brick Warehouse

Red Brick is full of history, with ocean views and seasonal events. Before your Yokohama day trip, make sure to check if they have any festivals going on. You also can find great restaurants, shops and places to grab a nice glass of wine. Walk-able to the Ferris Wheel and Cup of Noodles Museum.

Picnic and enjoy the Osanbashi Pier

Some of my favorite afternoons were spent taking food or buying a glass of wine at the pier to enjoy the breeze and take in the beautiful Yokohama skyline! They have blankets on the stairs and a small food shack (Although I recommend bringing your own)!

Shop at the many malls and stores

Queens Mall and World Porter’s are both great places to shop for souvenirs, clothes and trinkets.

Ramen Museum

Different than the Cup of Noodle Museum, this is located about a 20 minute train ride away from Yokohama Station (perfect if you have a rainy day also). Head to Shin-Yokohama station and try to get there right at opening as it can get busy. Perfect if you want to try different types of Ramen and various broths from different regions of Japan.

Kirin Beer Yokohama Factory

Eighty minute tour of one of Japan’s top breweries, learning about the history of Kirin and seeing the fermentation tanks and bottling areas.

Yokohama day trip family fun

Zoorasia (one of Japan’s newest zoos striving for spacious areas for animals) and Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise (amusement park & aquarium) are perfect for kids, if any families out there want more kid centered activities.

To eat & Drink

Chinatown

You will find ENDLESS amounts of food if you decide to eat lunch or dinner in Chinatown. I would go for some dumplings or other street food options.

Cafe Omnibus

Casual lunch serving fresh drinks, sandwiches, and gorgeous interior.

Din Tai Fung

Although a chain, this place can be found right at the Yokohama train station and will never let you down – it is always worth the wait to eat here.

Hama Cafe

Light food and adorable, creative latte art.

Bills Yokohama

Amazing brunch and lunch menu (get the hot cakes)!

World Porter’s

Along with shops World Porter’s has many places to choose from to eat. Sushi go round, ramen, and a quite a few cafeteria styled restaurants.

Tables cook & Living House

One of the places still on my list, this restaurant with French Based chefs is known for great outdoor seating and delicious menu/drink options.

Charcoal Grill Green Bashamichi

Large variety of apps, salads and grilled entrees – a great place for everyone to choose something.

Grab a beer at Craftsman Yokohama, Bashamachi Taproom or Yokohama Bay Brewing.

 

You could spend well over a day in here, but I hope this list helps with planning your Yokohama day trip or weekend getaway. PIN it below for your trip!