Away from the bustle of Minato Mirai or the famous Chinatown, the neighborhoods of Honmoku, Motomachi and Yamate reveal a completely different face of Yokohama. Here, the history of the port is mixed with that of the first foreign residents settled in Japan at the end of the 19th century. Between diplomatic residences, unusual museums, ancient European houses and peaceful gardens, these hills overlooking the bay offer an elegant, cultural and often unknown parenthesis. Ideal for a one-day visit from Tokyo, this area is discovered on foot, at the rhythm of the treed alleys and views of the port.
Honmoku: discreet charm and cultural heritage
Located south of Yamate, theHonmokuis often associated withSankeien Garden, real jewel of Japanese landscape architecture. Created in 1906 by Sankei Hara, a wealthy businessman passionate about art, this traditional style garden gathers on 175 000 m2 about fifteen historic buildings transported here from Kyoto, Kamakura or Gifu. Among them are ancient temples, tea houses and seigneurial residences. The whole is harmoniously integrated into a nature composed of sinuous trails, ponds, hills and cherry and maple groves.
Sankeien is an exceptional place in all seasons: flowering of plum trees in February, cherry trees in spring, lotus in summer, red maple trees in autumn. It is also a place appreciated for its tranquillity, far from the classic tourist routes.
A few minutes walk, theTin Toy Museum, founded by designer Teruhisa Kitahara, offers a nostalgic dive into the universe of white iron toys made in Japan between the 1920s and 1970s. Thousands of pieces are exposed: cars, robots, trains, figurines, often still in working order. A unique museum that seduces both retro design enthusiasts and families with children.
Yamate: in the footsteps of foreign diplomats
The neighbourhoodYamateis perched on a hill overlooking Yokohama harbour. After the country opened to foreigners in 1859, it was here that the first western residential concessions were installed. Today, Yamate still preserves several historical villas that testify to this time.
TheYamate Bluff Areagathers several European houses open to the public, tastefully restored and furnished in the style of the era. You can visit the Berrick Hall, the Ehrismann Residence, the Bluff No. 18 or the Home of a Diplomat. Each building tells a different story, between daily life, architecture, diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges.
TheIwasaki Museum(Iwasaki Memorial Hall), located in the former residence of a rich kimono merchant, highlights the economic relations between Japanese and foreigners at the turn of the 20th century. It presents objects of everyday life, photos, archives and rare documents, in a preserved setting.
Not far from that, theKanagawa Museum of Modern Literature(Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature) offers a different perspective on the evolution of 20th-century Japanese literature. Set in a renovated western-style building, it highlights works by authors related to the region, offers temporary exhibitions, a specialized library and sometimes public readings. It is a peaceful and inspiring place for lovers of Japanese culture.
TheYamate Museum, smaller but equally charming, devotes itself to the history of the Yamate district itself. Located in an old Japanese-style house, it provides a better understanding of the urban evolution of the area, its intercultural exchanges and the daily lives of Japanese families in contact with foreign residents.
Motomachi: shopping elegance and cosmopolitan atmosphere
At the foot of Yamate isMomachi, a historic shopping street known for its chic and international atmosphere. Since the 19th century, the shops of Motomachi have offered products intended for foreign residents: bread, confectionery, western clothing, imported objects. Even today, there are refined signs, Japanese designers, fashion brands, tea salons and French-style bakeries.
It is an excellent place to stroll between two cultural tours, taste a pastry, buy elegant souvenirs or soak up the unique spirit of this westernized enclave. The atmosphere is quiet, often frequented by Yokohama residents, away from nearby Chinatown tourist crowds.
Symbol Tower of the Port and tram museum: the sights of the bay
By getting closer to the coastal area east of Honmoku, two unusual sites complete a visit to this part of Yokohama.
First, theYokohama Port Symbol Tower(Port Symbol Tower), located on Honmoku Pier. It is 58 metres high and offers a clear view of Yokohama harbour, industrial facilities, and in clear weather, to Tokyo Bay. Less known than the Marine Tower, it attracts curious and urban photo lovers. It can be reached by bus from Negishi or by car, with parking nearby. The tower also has a small café and a garden.
Close by, theYokohama Tram Museum(Yokohama-shi Shiden Hozonkan) will delight transport enthusiasts. This museum is dedicated to the tramway network that ran in the city between 1904 and 1972. You can see old restored trams, get on board, explore their cabins and understand their role in the evolution of the city. Models, simulators, archival documents and children’s workshops complete the visit.
Practical tips for exploring Yokohama Hill
The areas of Honmoku, Yamate and Motomachi are accessible by train from Tokyo. The simplest way is to reach the stationNegishi(line JR Keihin-Tohoku / Negishi), then use the local bus to get around Honmoku and Sankeien. For Motomachi and Yamate, go down toIshikawachoorMotomachi-Chukagai(Minatomira Line).
It is recommended to devote a full day to the discovery of this area, starting from Sankeien, then going up to Yamate and finishing at Motomachi. For heritage enthusiasts, it is also possible to include a tour of the Port Symbol Tower or tram museum.
Most museums are open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 5pm. Some are free, others offer low-cost tickets (200 to 500 yen). Brochures are often available in English, and neighbourhoods are well marked with maps in several languages.
Honmoku, Motomachi and Yamate form an exciting cultural triangle, quite different from the high-tech image of Yokohama. This part of the city tells the story of Japan’s opening to the world through its diplomatic villas, confidential museums, western-inspired shops and preserved Japanese gardens. On foot or by bus, this cultural ride will delight lovers of history, architecture and calm. A more intimate face of Yokohama to discover, just a few steps from its best known neighborhoods.
If this article has brought you useful information and can help other travellers prepare for their stay, a Google review will always be appreciated. |
|
Learn more about preparing your trip to Japan
Discover more from Evasions Rebelles - Travel Planner Japon
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
