Yokohama Overview
Yokohama is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. The cruise terminal sits by Minato Mirai, close to major sights. Many cruisers do a fast transfer to Tokyo, but Yokohama itself is worth time.
A Little History
Once a small fishing village, Yokohama opened as a treaty port in 1859 and grew quickly with foreign trade. The Great Kanto Earthquake and WWII bombing reshaped its layout. Modern redevelopment created today’s waterfront.
Museums
Cup Noodles Museum, Yokohama Museum of Art (renovation schedules vary), Silk Museum, and the Ramen Museum in nearby Shin-Yokohama. Many close Tuesday or Thursday.
- Tip: Cup Noodles Museum gets school groups; go early.
Major Parks and Attractions
Yamashita Park, Chinatown, Sankeien Garden, and Minato Mirai’s towers. Chinatown is crowded midday. Garden paths can be slippery after rain.
Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)
Tokyo by train (30–45 minutes), Kamakura temples (half day), Enoshima island (half day), and Hakone (full day if starting early).
Shopping
Minato Mirai malls, Motomachi boutiques, and Chinatown stalls.
- Note: Department stores have excellent food halls.
Food and Drink
Ramen, Chinese restaurants in Chinatown, and coastal seafood. Many places use ticket machines.
Practical eating tips:
- Avoid peak lunch around Chinatown gates.
- Keep cash for small ramen shops.
- Lines move fast; watch how locals order.
Currency, Payments, ATMs
Japanese yen. Cards widely accepted. ATMs at convenience stores.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Shops 10:00–20:00. Museums close one weekday (varies).
Holidays that may affect hours or services:
- Jan 1–3 (New Year)
- Golden Week
- Obon (mid Aug)
Practical City Notes
Transit is dense but simple. Suica/PASMO cards help. English signage good. Watch for bikes on sidewalks.
Quick Plans
- 3–4 hours: Minato Mirai and Yamashita Park.
- 6–8 hours: Add Sankeien Garden or Chinatown.
- Full day: Kamakura or Tokyo plus Yokohama waterfront.
Cruise Port Map
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