What Makes Yokohama a Must-Visit Destination in Japan? – Exploring Four Unique Aspects of This City
Published by Hector Dean,
When travellers think of Japan, it is always Tokyo and Kyoto that come to mind first. But, what about Yokohama? Located just south of Tokyo, this city has much to offer its visitors and most definitely deserves a spot on every travel itinerary for a holiday in Japan. With its combination of history, activities, and attractions, Yokohama is a city that offers something for every type of traveller. This article focuses on four unique aspects of this Japanese city, so do keep reading!
Rich History
Yokohama boasts a rich history that dates back to the Edo period when it was just a humble fishing village. The city’s extensive transformation started in 1859 when its port was one of the first in the world to open up for foreign trade. This aspect alone marked Yokohama’s rapid development into an international hub for trade, garnering various merchants and visitors from across the world.
Today, Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city and offers a mix of old and new with various historical landmarks alongside new developments showcasing its modernity and sophistication. Tip: Visit the Sankei-en Garden, which is a must-visit for history buffs, simply for its sprawling traditional Japanese garden houses, serene ponds, beautiful bridges, and picturesque landscapes.
A Culinary Paradise
Yokohama has a lot to offer its tourists, and its extensive culinary fare should be on every foodie’s bucket list. The city is home to Japan’s largest Chinatown, a busy area filled with plenty of shops, street food vendors, and restaurants. Must-try items in Chinatown are dumplings, pork buns, spring rolls, duck wraps, and stir-fried noodles. The food is a combination of exquisite Japanese and Chinese flavours, ensuring that each tourist will want to come back for more the next day.
Don’t forget to include Noge District for a more local culinary experience. This area is best known for its izakayas (Japanese pubs) and small, casual dining establishments that serve a wide variety of authentic Japanese dishes. The lively atmosphere in the evenings is perfect for those on the search for good food and drink in a fun, casual setting. Tip: Order a bunch of dishes to share to fully experience the local culinary scene.
Plenty of Art and Culture
Apart from Yokohama’s extensive history and culinary offerings, the city is home to lots of art and culture, drawing lots of art aficionados from across the world. The Yokohama Museum of Art should be on every art enthusiast’s travel itinerary, as it houses a beyond impressive collection of contemporary and modern art, both from Japan and around the world.
For a fun and quirky experience, do include the Cup Noodles Museum – perfect for families with little children or anyone who enjoys a cup of steaming instant noodles! This interactive museum features the history and creativity behind one of Japan’s most iconic food inventions, and visitors can even create their own custom cup noodles to take back. Tip: This city is best enjoyed with family and/or friends so it makes perfect sense to book a week-long stay at serviced apartments. Yokohama is home to the city’s tallest residential building – Oakwood Suites Yokohama, which is ideal for large groups to reside in comfort while on holiday in this city.
Activities for the Whole Family
Families with children are bound to love Yokohama as it has lots of activities that are equal parts fun and thrilling. Located in the heart of the city, Yokohama Cosmo World is an amusement park featuring the iconic Cosmo Clock 21 ferris wheel in addition to plenty of exciting park rides and attractions – ideal for a day out with the family.
Another family-friendly must-visit is Zoorasia, which happens to be one of Japan’s largest and most well-designed zoos. The zoo is divided into different ecological zones, each one designed to replicate the animals’ natural habitats. It’s a wonderful place for children to learn about wildlife and conservation, and enjoy watching the animals as well. Tip: Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and clothing for these exciting activities in Yokohama.