Researched guide · Checked on Nov 11, 2026
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Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city, is a port city just south of Tokyo. It is easy to reach by train and feels very different from Tokyo: a waterfront skyline, sea breezes, historic brick buildings and a large, colorful Chinatown. It makes a relaxed day trip or an easy afternoon out.
Quick answer
Getting there: Tokyu Toyoko Line from Shibuya (through to the Minatomirai Line), JR lines from Tokyo or Shinagawa, or the Keikyu Line from Shinagawa
Time needed: Half a day to a full day
Best time: Afternoon into the evening, for the waterfront at night
Good for: Food, waterfront walks, architecture and a slower pace
| Getting there | Tokyu Toyoko Line from Shibuya (through to the Minatomirai Line), JR lines from Tokyo or Shinagawa, or the Keikyu Line from Shinagawa |
| Time needed | Half a day to a full day |
| Best time | Afternoon into the evening, for the waterfront at night |
| Good for | Food, waterfront walks, architecture and a slower pace |
Getting there from Tokyo
- From Shibuya: Tokyu Toyoko Line trains run through to the Minatomirai Line, so you can ride without changing all the way to Minatomirai or Motomachi-Chukagai (for Chinatown). A limited express takes about 35 minutes to Motomachi-Chukagai.
- From Tokyo or Shinagawa: JR lines run to Yokohama Station. For Chinatown and Yamashita Park, change to the Minatomirai Line, or take the JR Negishi Line to Ishikawacho or Kannai.
- From Shinagawa or Haneda Airport: the Keikyu Line runs to Yokohama Station.
A day in Yokohama
- Late morningChinatown
- Walk
- AfternoonYamashita Park and the waterfront
- Walk
- Late afternoonRed Brick Warehouse
- Walk
- EveningMinato Mirai
Chinatown
Yokohama Chinatown is packed with restaurants, food stalls and colorful gates. Try steamed buns and street snacks as you walk, or sit down for a full Chinese meal. Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minatomirai Line is the closest station.
Yamashita Park and the waterfront
A few minutes’ walk from Chinatown, Yamashita Park runs along the harbor. It is a pleasant place for a walk and a rest, with views across the water.
Red Brick Warehouse
Two restored brick warehouses by the sea now hold shops, cafés and restaurants, and the plaza in front hosts seasonal events. The nearest stations are Bashamichi and Nihon-odori on the Minatomirai Line.
Minato Mirai
Minato Mirai is the modern waterfront district of towers, shopping malls, museums and a big Ferris wheel. It is at its best in the evening, when the skyline lights up across the water. Minatomirai Station is in the middle of the area.
Tips
- The main sights are within walking distance of each other along the waterfront. Wear comfortable shoes.
- Chinatown is very busy at lunchtime on weekends. Go a little early or late.
- Yokohama Station is large and busy. For sightseeing, stations on the Minatomirai Line are usually more convenient.
Tours and hotels
Most visitors do Yokohama as a day trip, but staying a night lets you enjoy the waterfront at night without rushing back to Tokyo.
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FAQ
How do I get to Yokohama Chinatown from Tokyo?
Take the Tokyu Toyoko Line from Shibuya, which runs through to the Minatomirai Line. A limited express takes about 35 minutes to Motomachi-Chukagai, the closest station.
How long do I need in Yokohama?
Half a day to a full day.
When is the best time to visit Yokohama?
Afternoon into the evening, to see the waterfront at night.
Can I get to Yokohama from Haneda Airport?
Yes. The Keikyu Line runs from Haneda and Shinagawa to Yokohama Station.
Keep reading
Sources
This guide is based on the official information below, not on our own visit. Facts last checked against official sources on November 11, 2026. Timetables, hours and prices can change, so please check before you go.
