Located less than an hour from Tokyo, Yokohama is Japan’s second largest city. A former port open to international trade since the 19th century, it has a very different identity from the capital. Its modern seafront, historic neighbourhoods, gardens and gastronomy make it an excellent destination for a two-day getaway.
What to see in two days in Yokohama?
In just two days it is possible to discover the main sites of Yokohama. The city is seduced as much by its futuristic Minato Mirai neighbourhood as by its huge Chinatown, its former western residential districts and its traditional gardens.
Thanks to an efficient transport network, the various areas are easily accessible and allow to alternate cultural tours, seaside walks and culinary discoveries.
Day 1: the seafront and Minato Mirai
Start your day in Chinatown, Japan’s largest Chinese neighbourhood. Its colourful streets are lined with temples, restaurants, shops and stalls offering Chinese specialities. This is the ideal place to enjoy bao, steam ravioli or other specialties before continuing your visit.
A few minutes’ walk away is Yamashita Park, located along Yokohama Bay. This pleasant walk offers beautiful views of the port, ships and skyscrapers of Minato Mirai. You can simply walk or rent a bike to travel the seafront.
The afternoon is dedicated to the neighborhood of Minato Mirai 21, symbol of the modern Yokohama. This vast area brings together shopping malls, museums, hotels and high-rise buildings in a pleasant environment where green spaces stand alongside contemporary architecture.
Don’t miss the Landmark Tower, one of Japan’s tallest skyscrapers. Its observatory offers a spectacular panorama of Yokohama, Tokyo Bay and, in clear weather, Mount Fuji.
Nearby, the Cosmo World amusement park attracts visitors thanks to its famous large illuminated wheel and its many attractions. Even without going up into the rides, the neighborhood is particularly pleasant to discover at the end of the day when the buildings and the wheel light up.
Day 2: Gardens, Heritage and Historic Quarters
Start your second day with a visit to the Sankeien Garden, one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in the Tokyo area. Created in the early twentieth century, it brings together several historic buildings displaced from different parts of Japan, including tea pavilions, traditional residences and an elegant pagoda. The trails flow between ponds, hills and landscaped gardens, offering a peaceful setting in any season.
Then continue with the visit of Hikawa Maru, a historic ship moored in Yokohama Harbour. Transformed into a museum, it allows you to discover the transpacific voyages of the early 20th century and the major role played by Yokohama in the development of Japanese maritime trade.
In the afternoon, head for the Yamate district, located on the heights of the city. After the port opened to foreign powers in the 19th century, many Western diplomats and traders settled there. Several European style homes have been preserved and are now visiting for free, offering an overview of Yokohama’s cosmopolitan past.
Finish your stay in the Noge district, known for its friendly atmosphere and its many small alleys lined with izakaya, bars and restaurants. More authentic than the large tourist districts, Noge is a great place to discover the local nightlife and share a meal in a warm atmosphere.
Practical tips for visiting Yokohama in 2 days
The train and metro network makes it easy to reach all areas of Yokohama. From Tokyo, several railway lines directly connect the two cities in less than an hour.
Depending on your program, the Yokohama Minato Mirai Pass or other local transportation passes can save some money on travel and some attractions.
Also take advantage of your stay to discover local culinary specialties. Yokohama is famous for its Iekei style ramen, born in the city, but also for its many Chinese restaurants in Chinatown, sushi, seafood and yakitori.
Spring is particularly appreciated thanks to the flowering of cherry trees in parks and gardens, while autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful colours in green spaces. Winter remains an excellent time to admire the illuminations of Minato Mirai.
In two days, Yokohama reveals a wide variety of atmospheres. Between its modern seafront, historic neighborhoods, Japanese gardens and international heritage, the city is an ideal destination to complete a stay in Tokyo or discover another face of Japan.
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