Yokohama is close to Tokyo, but it has a completely different feel.
It is a mix of seaside parks, lively streets, cool museums, and calm gardens.
You can see a lot in one day, or stretch it out if you are staying longer.
Whether you like food, views, history, or just want to relax, there is something here for you.
This list gives you thirty easy ideas to explore the city without stress or rushing around.
If you are curious about Yokohama but do not know where to start, this will help.
Try out these experiences when in Yokohama:
1) Visit Yokohama Landmark Tower Sky Garden
Ride the elevator up to the Sky Garden near the top of Yokohama Landmark Tower. The 360-degree view is wild.
You might even catch a glimpse of Tokyo or Mount Fuji if the weather’s on your side.
At night, the city lights are just gorgeous.
Tickets for adults run about 1,000 yen, which is actually pretty reasonable compared to other towers.
2) Explore Sankeien Garden’s traditional landscapes
Step into Sankeien Garden and you’ll find a calm, beautiful slice of Yokohama.
Quiet paths wind around ponds, streams, and graceful little bridges.
Historic buildings from all over Japan sit scattered through the garden.
Old wooden houses and tea rooms give you a look at traditional architecture.
Bamboo groves and peaceful benches invite you to just sit and soak up the atmosphere.
It’s honestly a great spot to relax and get a feel for Japanese culture.
3) Discover the Cup Noodles Museum and make your own cup
The Cup Noodles Museum makes the history of instant noodles surprisingly fun.
Hands-on exhibits show how cup noodles were invented.
You even get to design your own Cup Noodles.
Draw on the cup, pick a soup flavor, and toss in your favorite toppings.
It’s creative, quirky, and you get a custom souvenir to take home.
Kids and adults both seem to love it.
If you’re traveling with family or just want something different, this place is a solid pick.
4) Stroll through the vibrant Yokohama Chinatown
Yokohama’s Chinatown is the biggest in Japan, and it’s packed with energy.
Walk under those colorful gates and the streets buzz with shops and restaurants.
Grab some street food—steamed buns, dumplings, you name it.
You’ll probably stumble on beautiful temples like Kanteibyo Temple as you wander.
It’s perfect for picking up souvenirs or just soaking in the lively vibe.
5) Ride the Ferris wheel at Yokohama Cosmo World
The huge Ferris wheel at Cosmo World, called Cosmo Clock 21, is hard to miss.
It stands at 112.5 meters and has a massive digital clock in the center.
Views from the top stretch over the city and bay. At night, the lights make it feel even more magical.
6) Explore Zoorasia, Yokohama’s Spacious Wildlife Park
Visit Zoorasia and wander through one of Japan’s largest and most modern zoos.
Unlike traditional zoos, Zoorasia creates vast natural habitats where animals roam in environments similar to their homes in the wild.
You can observe elephants, giraffes and tigers in sprawling enclosures with few visible barriers.
The Asian Tropical Forest zone lets you feel like you’re walking through a steamy jungle, while the Oceanian Grassland area showcases kangaroos and emus.
The zoo focuses on conservation and education, with informative displays that tell you about endangered species.
Plenty of shaded rest areas and cafes dot the grounds, so you can take breaks during your visit.
Zoorasia sits a bit outside central Yokohama, but a direct bus from Nakayama Station makes getting there easy.
7) Enjoy panoramic city views from Osanbashi Pier
Osanbashi Pier is perfect for a chill walk with the city skyline as your backdrop.
The open deck gives you sweeping views, especially of the Minato Mirai area.
This spot is a favorite for photos, sunsets, and that salty sea breeze.
In the evening, the city lights reflect off the water and it’s honestly kind of dreamy.
8) Walk along Minato Mirai 21 waterfront area
Take a stroll along the Minato Mirai 21 waterfront and soak in the harbor views.
Modern buildings line the water, making for a cool mix of city and sea.
There are shops, cafés, and parks to stop at along the way.
The flat path is super easy for families or anyone who just wants a relaxing walk.
Keep your eyes peeled for the Nippon Maru ship or nearby museums. If you catch the sunset here, you might not want to leave.
9) Explore the Yokohama Museum of Art
The Yokohama Museum of Art has a surprisingly broad collection.
You’ll see works from the late 1800s up to now.
The building feels spacious and easy to get around.
They often have special exhibitions and activities, so there’s usually something fresh to check out.
10) Relax at Yamashita Park by the bay
Yamashita Park sits right along the waterfront and is just a peaceful place to walk.
There’s a rose garden, open lawns, and benches with great bay views.
Look for statues like the “Little Girl With Red Shoes On” and the “Guardian of Water.”
It’s a sweet spot for a break, ship-watching, or even a simple picnic.
11) Experience Noge district’s lively izakayas
Noge is a lively district packed with old-school izakayas.
These are Japanese bars with food and drinks.
You can hop from one tiny bar to the next, sampling different local snacks.
The vibe’s cozy, the staff are usually friendly, and regulars make it feel welcoming.
It’s a great way to see both the traditional and modern side of Yokohama nightlife.
Most places are happy to welcome visitors, even if your Japanese isn’t perfect.
12) Visit Moon Area 1
Moon Area 1 brings a unique vibe to the Minato Mirai neighbourhood.
Ride the Yokohama Air Cabin ropeway for stunning views across the harbour and city skyline.
Browse modern art exhibitions, shop at Mark IS mall for innovative Japanese designs, or enjoy waterfront dining at Marine & Walk Yokohama.
Don’t miss the rooftop garden at Yokohama Mitsui Building with its city views and seasonal flowers.
The area looks especially magical after dark when light projections illuminate the buildings.
13) Check out the Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum
If you’re travelling with kids, the Anpanman Children’s Museum is a must.
Anpanman is one of Japan’s most beloved cartoon characters.
A superhero with a head made of bread filled with sweet red bean paste who fights to feed the hungry.
There are two main exhibit floors with scenes from the world of Anpanman, plus tons of hands on activities.
A bakery sells Anpanman shaped bread, and the food court offers themed treats. Kids can play, explore, and probably leave with huge smiles.
14) Tour the historic Hikawa Maru ocean liner
Hop aboard the Hikawa Maru, a classic ocean liner docked at Yamashita Park.
You can wander through four decks and see how people traveled back in the early 1900s.
Peek into cabins, dining rooms, and engine rooms.
Displays and videos tell stories of its time as a hospital ship during World War II.
Admission isn’t expensive, and there are discounts for students and kids.
15) Browse shops at Queen’s Square Yokohama
Queen’s Square Yokohama is packed with over 200 shops and restaurants.
You’ll find clothing stores, souvenir shops, and plenty of cafés.
If you need a break, there are comfy spots to sit, and some stores have nice city views from the windows.
It’s right in the Minato Mirai area, so it’s easy to pop in while you explore.
16) Discover Yokohama’s unique street art in Bashamichi
Bashamichi is full of colorful murals and graffiti.
Artists have turned walls and alleyways into creative displays that change all the time.
You’ll spot different styles, from ultra-modern to more traditional.
Bring your camera or just enjoy the walk.
17) Visit the Yokohama Foreign Cemetery
Explore the historic Yokohama Foreign Cemetery, a peaceful hilltop site established in the 1850s when Japan opened to foreign trade.
Stroll among graves of diplomats, merchants, and missionaries who shaped Yokohama’s international character.
The cemetery offers stunning views of the harbor and city below.
Beautiful trees and flowers create a serene atmosphere, making it a quiet retreat from the busy city.
Information plaques throughout the grounds tell fascinating stories about Yokohama’s foreign residents and their contributions to Japanese-Western relations.
It’s open to visitors on weekends and holidays, and admission is free.
18) Wander through Yokohama Hakkejima Sea Paradise
Spend a day at Hakkejima Sea Paradise and marvel at the incredible ocean life.
You can watch dolphins leap through the air during exciting shows or see sea lions perform clever tricks.
The aquarium tunnels let you walk with fish swimming all around you.
Colourful tropical species and massive sharks glide right above your head.
If you fancy more excitement, try the amusement rides with spectacular views across the bay.
The roller coasters and other attractions will get your heart racing.
19) Take a river cruise on the Minato Mirai waterfront
Hop on a river cruise along the Minato Mirai waterfront for a fresh perspective on Yokohama.
You’ll spot famous landmarks like Landmark Tower, Cosmo World’s Ferris wheel, and the Red Brick Warehouse from the water.
The cruises are usually calm, and the city lights at night are a real highlight.
It’s a mellow way to see the city from a different angle.
20) Explore the Kanazawa Hakkei scenic spots
Kanazawa Hakkei is known for its lovely sea views and natural scenery.
Take a walk along the coast and check out places like Qilibin Beach.
Nearby, Ryoshin-ji Temple offers a peaceful break from the city buzz.
Sometimes you’ll see people fishing or just enjoying the calm surroundings.
21) Try fresh seafood at Yokohama Fish Market
Get up early and head to Yokohama Fish Market for a look at all kinds of fresh seafood.
Local restaurants nearby serve sushi and fish dishes straight from the market.
If you come for breakfast, try a tuna bowl or fish soup.
The market buzzes with energy, and it’s a hit with both locals and visitors.
22) Visit the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum dives into ramen’s history and culture.
Displays show how ramen became a big deal in Japan.
You can sample different types from all over the country in one spot.
There’s even a class if you want to try making your own noodles.
If you love food or just want a fun group activity, this place is a winner.
23) See seasonal flowers at Nogeyama Zoological Gardens
Nogeyama Zoological Gardens isn’t just about animals.
Seasonal flowers bloom all year. In spring, cherry blossoms and other colorful flowers brighten the park.
The gardens are a quiet spot for a walk or a little break from the city.
Don’t forget your camera, because the flowers really make the place pop.
24) Experience the Red Brick Warehouse
The Red Brick Warehouse is worth a visit if you’re in Yokohama.
The old-style look stands out, and it’s easy to find.
Inside, you’ll find small shops with gifts and snacks, plus cafés where you can take a breather. Sometimes, outdoor events liven up the plaza nearby.
It’s a nice area for a short stroll or snapping a few photos with friends.
25) Check out the iconic Marine Tower observation deck
Don’t skip the Marine Tower observation deck.
It’s about 100 meters up and gives you a full 360-degree view of the city and harbor.
On clear days, Mount Fuji sometimes shows up on the horizon.
You can also spot landmarks like Yokohama Bay Bridge and Yamashita Park from above.
The elevator ride is quick, so getting up there is easy for everyone.
26) Walk the historic Motomachi Shopping Street
Take a stroll down Motomachi Shopping Street.
The relaxed vibe hits you right away.
Modern boutiques sit next to old shops and cozy little cafes.
It’s a fun mix, honestly.
The area has this unexpected European feel, with unique storefronts that catch your eye.
Stop for a coffee or poke around for local fashion and souvenirs.
The street’s easy to find.
If you’re after a peaceful walk and want to go at your own pace, this is the place.
27) Take a cooking class
Roll up your sleeves and learn how to prepare authentic Japanese dishes while in Yokohama.
You can master the art of making perfect sushi rolls, learn how to prepare savoury okonomiyaki pancakes or discover the secrets of traditional Yokohama style ramen.
The best part comes at the end when you get to enjoy everything you’ve made.
You also receive recipe cards to take home so you can recreate the dishes for friends and family.
Most classes require booking at least two days ahead, but your effort to plan pays off with culinary skills that last far longer than any souvenir.
28) Explore the Yokohama Port Museum
Head to the Yokohama Port Museum if you want to dig into the city’s history as a port.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits about ships and the people who shaped Yokohama.
Interactive displays make it easy to get how the port works.
There’s also a great view of the harbor which is kind of a bonus, really.
29) Enjoy the English Rose Garden
Check out the Yokohama English Garden for its gorgeous collection of roses.
The garden isn’t huge, but winding paths and flowers seem to pop up everywhere you turn.
Depending on when you visit, you might see roses, cherry blossoms, or even hydrangeas.
The gardeners clearly love what they do, so there’s always something blooming.
30) Visit the Kirin Beer Village factory tour
So, you can actually join a tour of the Kirin Beer Village in Yokohama and see how beer gets made.
They’ll let you taste malt, touch some hops, and even smell all those wild aromas.
Guides take you step by step through the brewing process.
You’ll also see how they package the beer, which is oddly satisfying.
The tour usually runs for about an hour or maybe a bit longer.
At the end, you get to try some beer!
If you’re not into alcohol, they’ve got non-alcoholic drinks too.
Honestly, it’s a fun way to dip into Japanese beer culture while you’re in Yokohama.
