What is Yokohama Minato Mirai?
Yokohama Minato Mirai is a popular tourist area located in Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture.
This area blends a futuristic cityscape with a seaside resort atmosphere, attracting many visitors from both Japan and abroad.
Famous attractions such as Landmark Tower, the Red Brick Warehouses, and Cosmo World are clustered here, offering a wide range of activities including shopping, dining, art, and amusement.
Access by public transport is also convenient — it’s about a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo, which is another appealing feature.
How to get there & Transport information
By train
- From Tokyo Station: Take the JR Tokaido Line to Yokohama Station (about 25 minutes), then transfer to the Minato Mirai Line for about 3 minutes.
- From Haneda Airport: Take the Keikyu Line to Yokohama Station (about 30 minutes), then the Minato Mirai Line for about 3 minutes.
By car
Use the Shuto Expressway Bayshore Route or Yokohane Route to reach the Yokohama Minato Mirai area.
There are many parking lots nearby, but weekends and holidays can be crowded, so using public transport is recommended.
Minato Mirai Attractions
Landmark Tower
This 296-meter skyscraper features the observation deck “Sky Garden,” where you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view.
It’s also a famous night-view spot — the view at dusk is especially spectacular.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouses
The historic Red Brick Warehouses have been renovated and are used for shopping, dining, and events.
Seasonal events like the Christmas Market and beer festivals are very popular.
Yokohama Cosmo World
An amusement park characterized by the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel.
It’s a great spot for families and couples.
Cup Noodles Museum
A museum where you can learn about the history of Nissin Foods, the developer of the world’s first instant ramen.
The hands-on experience of creating your own original Cup Noodles is extremely popular.
Dining in Minato Mirai
Close to Yokohama Chinatown — diverse international cuisine
Yokohama Chinatown is very nearby, so you can enjoy a variety of international cuisines, including Chinese food.
Restaurants using local ingredients
In the Minato Mirai area, there are many restaurants serving dishes made with Yokohama-grown vegetables and local seafood.
Dining on a seaside terrace is a special experience.
Trendy café hopping
There are many stylish cafés around the Red Brick Warehouses and Marine & Walk Yokohama.
Instagram-worthy sweets are also popular.
Seasonal events and highlights
Spring: Cherry blossoms and festivals
Cherry trees along Sakura-dori and Rinko Park are in full bloom.
The Garden Necklace Yokohama event is also held in spring.
Summer: Fireworks
Summer events such as the Kanagawa Shimbun Fireworks Festival and the Minato Mirai Smart Festival light up the night sky over Minato Mirai.
Autumn: Art & music
Many art events, including the Yokohama Triennale, are held in autumn.
Winter: Illuminations
The whole Minato Mirai area is decorated with illuminations, creating a romantic atmosphere.
The Christmas Market is also a must-see.
Practical information for travelers
Recommended accommodations
- Yokohama Royal Park Hotel (inside Landmark Tower) — currently closed for an extended period
- InterContinental Yokohama Grand (located on the waterfront)
Wi‑Fi spots
Free Wi‑Fi is available at major facilities and cafés.
It’s also provided at tourist information centers.
Language support
Tourist information centers and hotels can usually assist in English.
Multilingual signage is installed at major tourist sites.
Summary and FAQs
Yokohama Minato Mirai is an area that packs both urban convenience and seaside charm.
With sightseeing, shopping, dining, and activities, there are many ways to enjoy the area, so anyone can have a great time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I see Minato Mirai in one day?
A: You can enjoy the main attractions in one day, but if you want to take your time, we recommend staying two days or more.
Q: Where are the best spots to see the night view?
A: The Landmark Tower Sky Garden and Pukari Pier (Pukari‑sanbashi) are especially recommended.
Q: Where can I buy souvenirs?
A: You can buy souvenirs at the Red Brick Warehouses and Queen’s Square. Locally exclusive sweets are particularly popular.
Use this guide when visiting Yokohama Minato Mirai and enjoy a memorable trip!
