Tokyo to Yokohama: One Day Trip Itinerary to Discover Japan's Port City
Born and raised in Tokyo, after living in the city for over 30 years, I realized something one day. It was the charm of Yokohama, a city just 30 minutes away from Tokyo.
Originally, I thought of Yokohama as just "the stylish port town next door." But one day, when I really went sightseeing there, I found a world completely different from Tokyo.
The harmony of the sea and cityscape seen from the Minato Mirai district, the spacious greenery of Yamashita Park, the glow of the port at dusk. These landscapes were as fresh as a different world to me, who spends every day in Tokyo.
And then there's Yokohama's unique atmosphere. The scent of the sea characteristic of a port town, the streets full of exotic charm, the Yamate area dotted with retro Western-style houses. Walking through the lively streets of Chinatown, I even felt like I was on an overseas trip.
Moreover, there's the leisurely flow of time that can't be experienced in Tokyo. I feel that this difference in the sense of time is what gives you a "non-daily" feeling that's hard to believe is just 30 minutes away.
In this article, I'll introduce a plan to fully enjoy Yokohama's charms on a day trip from Tokyo. I'll explain an efficient itinerary to cover Yokohama's scenic spots, delicious food, and famous places from morning to night.
Now, let's go and fully enjoy the unique charms of Yokohama, which are quite different from Tokyo!
Table of Contents
・The Charm of Yokohama: A Port Town Enjoyable Within an Hour from Tokyo
・Access from Tokyo to Yokohama
・Yokohama Zone Map
・Itinerary for a One-Day Trip from Tokyo to Yokohama
・Other Recommended Spots in Yokohama
The Charm of Yokohama: A Port Town Enjoyable Within an Hour from Tokyo
Yokohama is a charming port town that can be visited within just an hour from Tokyo. The charm of this city lies in its diversity and unique atmosphere.
First, Yokohama's most distinctive feature is its international atmosphere since its opening as a port. Since opening in the mid-19th century, Yokohama has functioned as Japan's gateway, becoming a place where various cultures intersect. As you walk through the city, you can feel the Western-style architecture and exotic atmosphere everywhere.
The Minato Mirai 21 district represents Yokohama's modern face. The scenery of high-rise buildings standing in a port town creates an urban landscape that's quite different from Tokyo. Especially the nighttime illuminated scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, and I never get tired of seeing it no matter how many times I look.
When talking about Yokohama, we can't forget Chinatown. In Japan's largest Chinatown, you can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine. When I first visited, I was overwhelmed by its scale and vitality. Just walking through the streets makes you feel like you're in China.
The view of the sea from Yamashita Park and Harbor View Park is also one of Yokohama's great charms. The sea view from the spacious park makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Especially the scenery at dusk is exceptional, with the slowly setting sun and the glow of the sea surface reflecting it, it's indescribably beautiful.
And Yokohama has many unique museums. For example, the Cup Noodles Museum is a place where you can learn about the history and appeal of instant noodles, which Japan is proud of worldwide, in a fun way. When I visited, the experience of creating my own original Cup Noodles left a particularly strong impression.
The charm of Yokohama is too abundant to introduce in this article alone. However, just by visiting these spots, you should be able to fully feel Yokohama's unique atmosphere and diversity.
Access from Tokyo to Yokohama
Access from Tokyo to Yokohama is more convenient and comfortable than you might imagine. Here, I'll introduce the main access methods.
First, the most recommended is the Ueno-Tokyo Line. It takes about 30 minutes from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station, and the price is reasonable. I often use this route, and the seats are comfortable, and you can enjoy the scenery from the window. Especially the way the scenery gradually changes from Tokyo's cityscape to Yokohama's is exciting and heightens the anticipation for the trip.
From the Shibuya area, the Tokyu Toyoko Line is convenient. It takes about 40 minutes from Shibuya Station to Yokohama Station, but the change in the city you see along the way is interesting.
At first, you see Tokyo's urban scenery spreading out, but it gradually changes to the atmosphere of Yokohama's port town. Enjoying this change is one of the pleasures of the journey.
From Shinagawa Station, I recommend using the Keikyu Line. It takes only about 20 minutes to reach Yokohama. It's fast-paced and ideal for those who want to use their time effectively.
For bus fans, I also recommend the highway bus. It takes about 40 minutes from Tokyo Station to Yokohama. As long as there's no traffic jam, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Yokohama Zone Map
Yokohama is divided into several areas, each with its own distinctive atmosphere. Now, let's take a closer look at the five main areas.
1: Minato Mirai 21 District
The Minato Mirai 21 district is a modern area that can be called Yokohama's new face. It's where tourist spots representing Yokohama, such as the Landmark Tower and Yokohama Cosmo World, are concentrated.
The charm of this area is, above all, the night view. The illuminated high-rise buildings and the glow of the sea surface reflecting them are breathtakingly beautiful. Also, this area has many large shopping malls and art museums, so you can enjoy it all day long.
The Minato Mirai 21 district is an area where you can fully experience Yokohama's modern charm. You can enjoy a unique space where the urban atmosphere and the openness of the seaside are fused. I definitely recommend visiting both during the day and at night.
2: Kannai / Bashamichi Area
The Kannai / Bashamichi area is located in the center of Yokohama City and has a multifaceted character as a business district. The cityscape where modern office buildings coexist with historical buildings is a mysterious space where you can feel Yokohama's history and present simultaneously.
The greatest charm of this area is that many historical buildings remain. Especially when you walk along Nihon-odori Street or Bashamichi, you can enjoy a retro atmosphere.
Also, this area has many restaurants and is a place of relaxation for locals. Various eateries line up, from izakayas crowded with businessmen on their way home from work to small, hidden bars.
3: Chinatown / Motomachi / Yamashita Park Area
It's no exaggeration to say that the Chinatown / Motomachi / Yamashita Park area is the center of Yokohama tourism.
First, Chinatown. This is Japan's largest Chinatown, and its scale and vibrancy are overwhelming. Buildings decorated in flashy red and gold colors line up, and Chinese lion statues and dragon sculptures adorn the streets.
The biggest attraction of Chinatown is, without a doubt, the authentic Chinese cuisine. The variety is truly abundant, from xiaolongbao, fried dumplings, Peking duck, to mapo tofu.
Next is the Motomachi area, which is a stylish street lined with high-end boutiques and variety shops. It has a history of flourishing as a foreign settlement since the Meiji era, and even now, that refined atmosphere remains.
And then there's Yamashita Park. This is one of Yokohama's representative parks, a green belt spreading along the sea. Every time I visit this park, I feel its openness. Especially the scenery at dusk is exceptional. The sunset sinking into the horizon and the glow of the sea surface reflecting it are indescribably beautiful.
4: Yamate Area
The Yamate area is a region particularly rich in exotic atmosphere within Yokohama. When I first visited this area, I felt as if I had wandered into a small European town. Located on a hill, this area conveys the history of its prosperity as a former foreign settlement.
These Western-style houses called "Yamate Western Houses" are precious buildings where you can feel Yokohama's history firsthand. Among them, Bluff No.18 House can be visited for free and is one of my favorite spots.
Also, the view from the Yamate area is magnificent. Especially from Harbor View Park, you can overlook Yokohama Port. On a clear day, you can enjoy a view of the sea stretching far into the distance.
The Yamate Italian Garden is also one of the hidden gems in this area. It's a beautiful garden designed in an Italian style where you can enjoy flowers of each season.
5: Shin-Yokohama Area
The Shin-Yokohama area is a region with a particularly modern face within Yokohama. When I first visited this area, I was surprised by its urban atmosphere. A space full of vitality, quite different from other areas of Yokohama, was spreading out.
The main feature of this area is the presence of Shin-Yokohama Station, a Shinkansen stop. The area around the station is always full of vitality with people visiting from all over the country by Shinkansen.
Inside and around the station, many restaurants and souvenir shops are lined up, providing a convenient environment for travelers.
One of the attractions of the Shin-Yokohama area is the Ramen Museum. This is the world's first food theme park themed on ramen, where famous ramen shops from all over Japan are gathered.
Also, the Shin-Yokohama area has Yokohama Arena. This is one of Japan's largest concert venues, where live performances by famous domestic and international artists are frequently held. I've visited several times for concerts, and I'm always impressed by its scale and good acoustics.
Before and after concerts, the surrounding restaurants and bars are crowded with many fans, and the whole area is enveloped in a special atmosphere.
Itinerary for a One-Day Trip from Tokyo to Yokohama
Now, let me introduce a specific itinerary. As someone who has visited Yokohama many times, I've come up with an efficient and enjoyable itinerary. With this schedule, you should be able to fully experience Yokohama's charms.
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Enjoy Morning in Yokohama
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Depart from Tokyo Station
Let's start our journey from Tokyo Station. I recommend using the Ueno-Tokyo Line. When you arrive at Tokyo Station, first check the platform for the Ueno-Tokyo Line on the information board inside the station. Tokyo Station is a bit crowded in the morning, but that bustling atmosphere makes you feel the start of your journey.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Arrive at Yokohama Station, Head to Yamashita Park
After arriving at Yokohama Station, first transfer to the Minatomirai Line and head for Motomachi-Chukagai Station. Yokohama Station is a bit complex, but if you carefully check the signs, you won't get lost.
After getting off at Motomachi-Chukagai Station, let's head to Yamashita Park. Yamashita Park in the morning is a pleasant space with refreshing sea breeze and tranquility.
I visit Yamashita Park at this time to enjoy the port scenery in the clear morning air. Let's enjoy the morning scenery of Yokohama Port while walking along the seaside promenade. You can enjoy Yokohama-like scenery such as large passenger ships docked and the high-rise buildings of Minato Mirai visible in the distance.
Also, an old passenger ship called "Hikawa Maru" is exhibited in the park. This ship once served on the Pacific route and is now open to the public as a museum. Even just looking at its exterior, you can feel the history of Yokohama's maritime transport.
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore Chinatown and Have Lunch
After enjoying a refreshing morning walk in Yamashita Park, let's head to Yokohama Chinatown. Chinatown is just a few minutes away from Yamashita Park, and as soon as you step into its unique atmosphere, you'll feel like you're in a foreign country.
When you stand at the entrance of Chinatown, the first thing that catches your eye is the colorful Chinese-style gate called "Paifang". As you pass through this gate, which is based on red and gold, the world of lively Chinatown spreads out. I still remember the excitement I felt when I first passed through this gate.
One of the joys of exploring Chinatown is food hopping. You can taste various Chinese dishes like xiaolongbao, steamed buns, ebi chili, and dandan noodles in small portions.
Around 11:00 AM, let's start preparing for lunch. There are many famous restaurants in Chinatown, but by going at this time, you should be able to enter without much of a wait.
12:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Tour Yokohama's Tourist Attractions
12:30 PM - 3:00 PM: To Minato Mirai 21 District
After enjoying a delicious lunch in Chinatown, let's head to the Minato Mirai 21 district, which shows Yokohama's modern face. This area is a place where Yokohama's charms are condensed.
First, let's return to Minato Mirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line. When you exit the station, you'll be surprised by the view of high-rise buildings spreading out before you. Especially the presence of the Landmark Tower is overwhelming.
Let's head to the "Sky Garden" observation deck of the Landmark Tower. The view of Yokohama from a height of 273 meters is spectacular.
After descending from the observation deck, let's ride the Ferris wheel at Cosmo World next. This Ferris wheel is a symbolic presence in Minato Mirai. During the approximately 15-minute ride, you can enjoy the slowly changing scenery. The view when you reach the top is especially exceptional. You can see a panoramic view of the Minato Mirai cityscape and Yokohama Port.
After getting off the Ferris wheel, let's head to the Red Brick Warehouse. This building was once used as a port facility, but now it has been reborn as a shopping and event space. The contrast between the solid exterior of brick construction and the modern atmosphere inside is attractive.
Here, you can find Yokohama-like souvenirs. My recommendation is handmade accessories made by local artists.
Finally, let's take a walk along the seaside. There's a beautifully maintained promenade along the seaside of Minato Mirai. Walking slowly while feeling the sea breeze, you can experience a sense of openness even though you're in the city.
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Visit the Cup Noodles Museum
After enjoying time in the Minato Mirai 21 district, let's head to the Cup Noodles Museum, one of Yokohama's representative tourist spots.
This unique museum is a place where you can learn about the history and appeal of instant noodles loved around the world in a fun way. When I first visited here, I was surprised by its novel exhibition method and experiential attractions.
Once you enter the museum, try the experience of making your own original Cup Noodles at the "Cup Noodles Factory". This is one of the biggest attractions of this museum. You can customize everything from the cup decoration to the soup flavor and ingredients to your liking.
Inside the museum, you can also learn about various types of Cup Noodles and their history. It's one of the must-see spots when visiting Yokohama.
Website: https://www.cupnoodles-museum.jp/ja/yokohama/
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Return to Yokohama Station
After enjoying a fun time at the Cup Noodles Museum, consider the evening to night options explained in the next section at Yokohama Station.
The charm of Yokohama shows completely different faces during the day and night. In contrast to the lively cityscape during the day, Yokohama is enveloped in a fantastic atmosphere at night.
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Evening to Night Tourism Options
Night Cruise in Minato Mirai
One of the best ways to enjoy Yokohama at night is the Minato Mirai night cruise. I still vividly remember the excitement I felt when I first took this cruise.
The night view of Yokohama seen from the sea has a completely different charm from what you see from land.
The cruise ship departs from the pier in Minato Mirai. As you board the ship, you'll first feel the pleasant scent of the tide and sea breeze. As the ship starts moving, the night view of Yokohama gradually spreads out.
What's particularly impressive is the group of high-rise buildings in Minato Mirai. Among them, the presence of the Landmark Tower is overwhelming. Its height and beauty stand out even more when seen from the sea.
Also, the moment of passing under the Yokohama Bay Bridge is an unforgettable experience. The power of passing under the huge bridge is indescribable. The beauty of the illuminated bridge and the sea surface glowing with its reflection is spectacular.
During the cruise, you can also enjoy taking photos while feeling the sea breeze on the deck. Taking commemorative photos with the night view as a background will surely become a wonderful memory. I always carefully capture this moment in photos every time.
Towards the end of the cruise, as the ship returns to the pier, you'll surely be completely fascinated by the charm of Yokohama at night. The night view of Yokohama seen from the sea teaches you a new aspect of this city. It will be an opportunity to rediscover the beauty and charm of Yokohama that you didn't notice during the day.
Website: https://shiny-cruise.com/
Visit Chinatown Again
Chinatown at night offers a completely different atmosphere from during the day. When I first visited Chinatown at night, I was overwhelmed by its splendor and vitality. There's a unique charm here at night that's different from the daytime bustle.
When you step into Chinatown at night, the first thing that catches your eye is the glow of colorful neon signs and lanterns. The decorations based on red and gold shine as if floating in the darkness of the night. This scene is like a scene from a movie, and I can't help but stop and stare.
It's also good to visit restaurants you didn't choose during the day. At night, more formal, high-end Chinese restaurants also start operating.
Bar Hopping in the Noge District
Another option for enjoying Yokohama at night is bar hopping in the Noge district. Noge is an old drinking district located close to Yokohama Station.
When you step into the Noge district, the first thing that catches your eye is the scenery of old signboards and lanterns lined up. The sight of small bars and eateries crammed into narrow alleys gives you a sense of having traveled back in time.
As it's a local place, many shops may be difficult for travelers to enter, but it's one of the spots I want you to visit even just to take photos.
Enjoy the Night Operation of Yokohama Cosmo World
Another wonderful option for enjoying Yokohama at night is the night operation of Yokohama Cosmo World.
What first catches your eye is the illuminated Ferris wheel "Cosmo Clock 21". My recommendation is to ride this Ferris wheel again. During the approximately 15-minute ride, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Yokohama's night scenery that changes moment by moment.
After getting off the Ferris wheel, let's enjoy other attractions. The roller coaster with the night view as a backdrop offers a completely different thrill from during the day.
The charm of Cosmo World at night is not just the attractions. The entire park is decorated with illuminations, creating a fantastic space. It's also a wonderful experience to leisurely walk along the promenade wrapped in colorful lights.
If you're visiting with family, there are also plenty of attractions for children. Attractions wrapped in gentle light, such as the merry-go-round and teacups, can be safely enjoyed even by small children.
Website: http://cosmoworld.jp/
Other Recommended Spots in Yokohama
There are still many attractive spots in Yokohama that didn't make it into this itinerary. Here, I'll introduce such spots. If you have extra time, please try to visit them.
Sankeien Garden
Sankeien Garden, located a bit away from the hustle and bustle, is one of Yokohama's representative tourist spots, and I'm captivated by its beauty and tranquility every time I visit.
The charm of Sankeien Garden is, above all, its vast Japanese garden. A picturesque landscape spreads out within the vast site of about 175,000 square meters, with ponds, streams, and hills skillfully arranged. I still vividly remember being overwhelmed by its scale and beauty when I first visited here.
The charm of Sankeien Garden also lies in the natural beauty of the four seasons. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, it's enveloped in deep green in summer, and autumn colors adorn the garden in fall. Especially, the autumn foliage season is exceptional.
Also, Sankeien Garden is popular as a photography spot. Since there's a picturesque landscape no matter where you cut out, it's an irresistible place for camera enthusiasts.
Website: https://www.sankeien.or.jp/
Yokohama Station East Exit Underground Shopping Center Porta
Source: Google Map by dc info
This large-scale underground shopping center with over 200 stores has become more than just a shopping mall, it's part of Yokohama's daily life.
The charm of Porta lies in its diversity. Fashion, sundries, bookstores, and various restaurants line up, showing a bustle like a small town.
A big advantage of Porta is that you can enjoy shopping comfortably even on rainy days. Yokohama is surprisingly rainy, but at Porta, you can enjoy shopping without worrying about the weather. I often spend time here on rainy days too.
Also, one of Porta's attractions is its location directly connected to Yokohama Station. It's perfect for killing time while waiting for trains or buses, and I often use it for meeting up with friends. It's enjoyable to use the waiting time to buy small souvenirs or take a break at a cafe.
Website: https://www.yokohamaporta.jp/language/english.html
Yokohama Port Symbol Tower
This tower is loved by many people as a symbolic structure of Yokohama Port. When I first visited this tower, I was captivated by its unique shape and the spectacular view from it.
The biggest attraction of this tower is, without doubt, the view from the observation deck. From the 101-meter high observation deck, you can overlook Yokohama Port.
What's particularly impressive is the scenery at dusk. The sun setting in the west dyes the sea surface golden, and the sight of the city gradually lighting up is indescribably beautiful.
Also, this tower is popular as a photo spot. If you take a picture with the tower in the background, you can get a photo full of Yokohama-ness. I always take commemorative photos here when friends or family come to Yokohama.
Nogeyama Zoo
This municipal zoo houses over 1,000 animals of about 100 species. Despite its small scale, the attraction is that you can meet a variety of animals. Also, it's nice that admission is free.
The wonderful thing about Nogeyama Zoo is that you can observe the animals up close. Compared to large-scale zoos, the distance to the cages and fences is closer, so you can see the expressions and gestures of the animals well.
For families with children, Nogeyama Zoo is also an ideal place. Because the distance to the animals is close, even small children can enjoy it sufficiently.
Website: https://www.hama-midorinokyokai.or.jp/zoo/nogeyama/
Yokohama Marine Tower
This 106-meter high tower is loved by many people as one of Yokohama's landmarks. From the observation deck, you can overlook Yokohama Port, and the view is spectacular.
The charm of the Marine Tower is also in its appearance. Its characteristic stripes give a refreshing impression that matches the port town during the day.
At night, the tower is illuminated, creating a romantic lighthouse-like atmosphere.
There are also many points of interest inside the tower. The observation floor has exhibits introducing the history and culture of Yokohama, allowing you to deeply understand the city's charm. There's also a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while viewing the spectacular scenery. I sometimes enjoy dinner here on special days. The night view from the window seats is truly wonderful.
The area around the Marine Tower is also attractive. Nearby are Yamashita Park and Chinatown, and you can enjoy a stroll before or after visiting the tower. I often take a walk in Yamashita Park after enjoying the view from the tower. Walking leisurely while feeling the sea breeze is very pleasant.
Website: https://marinetower.yokohama/
Yokohama is a city with completely different charms from Tokyo, despite being just 30 minutes away. Just as I discovered Yokohama's charm after over 30 years of living in Tokyo, I'm sure you'll be captivated by its charm once you visit.
The one-day itinerary introduced in this article is just a small part of Yokohama's charm. When you actually visit, I'm sure you'll find your own favorite spots.
I hope this article will be helpful for your Yokohama trip!
