Are you thinking about visiting the Yokohama Station area and wondering what things to do, places to visit, and restaurants to check out? Located just south of Tokyo, Yokohama offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an excellent destination for travellers. From exploring local attractions and hidden gems to enjoying a variety of dining options, the Yokohama Station area has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll delve into what to do in Yokohama Station, where to eat and drink, where to stay, and uncover some lesser-known spots in the area.
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A Quick Primer to Yokohama
Yokohama is the second-largest city in Japan, located in Tokyo Bay, south of Tokyo. It is a lively and modern city that mixes Japanese traditions with those of China and the West. Whether you want to savour delicious food, immerse yourself in culture and history, or take in breathtaking scenery, the region inside and outside of this jewel of Japan has you covered.
The Japanese city of Yokohama is considered one of the most important and beautiful cities in Japan, where many visitors and tourists flock to vacation and travel with their families. When visiting Yokohama, most people tend to ride the train past Yokohama Station and head to Sakuragicho and the Minatomirai area. However, being the 5th busiest station in the world with approximately 760,000,000 people visiting per year, Yokohama Station has a lot to offer.
Best Things to Do in the Yokohama Station Area
Fujiko Fujio Museum
Enter the world of Japanese manga at Fujiko Fujio Museum, where you can discover original artworks from different manga stories, watch an original short film in the theatre, and enjoy a manga reading room with an interactive children’s area.
You can ride a Doraemon bus from Noborito Station to the museum. Keep a lookout for many Doraemon characters along the way. The staff are very friendly, and each guest will get a tape (in your preferred language) that will walk you through the museum and share the stories and explanations of the art and Fujio’s career.
Enjoy a peaceful time at the museum restaurant, surrounded by a rooftop garden outside the window. This restaurant offers many edible creations in the form of Doraemon. There are meals like Doraemon curry, Chimpui waffle, Osanpo pokoyan burger, and many more. It’s a fun place for families and a must-visit for fans of the cartoon “Doraemon”.
Find out more about Fujiko Fujio Museum here on Google maps.
Hara Model Railway Museum
If you’re into railway history in Japan, you must visit the Hara Model Railway Museum, where Japan’s first railway started. There are around 1,500 cars in the collection, all handmade by one person.
There are two large areas to view the different models, with sounds like rail squeaks, gears, and brakes adding to the environment. You can also sign up to drive the simulator. It’s a great activity to try if you have the time. There is also a playground and a Thomas the Tank Engine for kids to enjoy. It is perfect for families or just train lovers. The friendly staff and the massive working model railway set make this a must-visit museum.
Find out more about Hara Model Railway Museum here on Google maps.
SOGO Museum of Art
For anyone into the arts, the SOGO Museum of Art is a must-visit. It is a three-minute walk from Yokohama Station. They have new exhibitions every two months, so it’s a place you can visit often and get something new each time. Past exhibitions have included Alice in Wonderland, Mucha, and Japanese weddings.
The museum is on the 6th floor of the Sogo department store, so there are places to shop and delicious spots to eat. It’s open until 20:00 and is usually not crowded, allowing you to enjoy the exhibitions at your own pace.
Find out more about SOGO museum of arts here on Google maps.
Asobuild
This building is full of activities, attractions, and family activities. It’s easy to access from Yokohama Station, and each floor has a different theme.
The B1 floor is an amusement bar and lounge, a playground for grownups with various board games to play while enjoying cocktails and other drinks made by professional bartenders.
The 1st floor is a gourmet floor, designed by people who love and want to share Yokohama shops and restaurants. There are 18 different shops to visit on this floor, including traditional Japanese food and Western options like Daigomi Burger.
The 2nd floor offers a multi-brand shop of different entertainment experiences, changing periodically to hold events using the latest technologies.
The 3rd floor is one of Japan’s largest experience-based spaces for handcrafts, with workshops every day.
The 4th floor is an indoor kid’s park designed to inspire and teach kids while they play.
The roof floor is a multi-sports court for futsal and basketball, with special events and classes conducted by professional athletes.
This place is a must-visit for anyone in Yokohama. There are so many different things to try and see. It’s perfect for families, individuals or groups of friends.
Find out more about Asobuild here on Google maps.
Bunshin Tattoo Museum
This museum has works from a renowned master of traditional Japanese tattooing, Horiyoshi III. The museum, named after the ancient Japanese word for tattoos, Bunshin, has many amazing and weird exhibits to enjoy. Plus, it has a gallery full of incredible tattoo art that fills two floors.
The museum’s history is unique and powerful, fighting against the prejudices associated with tattoos in Japan. The museum itself is quite small, so it doesn’t take long to go through, but it’s still worth a visit.
Find out more about Bunshin Tattoo Museum here on Google maps.
Yokohama English Garden
This garden has more than 1,800 roses of 1,300 different varieties. This English garden allows you to enjoy roses from spring to fall, including some that bloom all year round. The garden opens at 10 AM, and you can take a free shuttle bus from Yokohama Station.
It can be a little crowded, but there are many places to escape the people if it feels too crowded. There are many places to sit and relax, with some even going to read a book in a quiet spot, taking in the fragrance of the flowers.
Find out more about Yokohama English Garden here on Google maps.
Keikyu Museum
This relatively new museum opened in January 2020 on the first floor of Keikyu Group Headquarters. It was created so that people could touch, see, and enjoy the authentic historical vehicles that have been operating since the early Showa era. There are several exhibits, including a model railway driving simulator and a manufacturing work experience.
The museum entrance fee is free, and you only have to pay for some special exhibitions (like the simulator). It’s a perfect place for families and kids, offering many rare experiences.
Find out more about Keikyu Museum here on Google maps.
Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum
This museum is a great place for kids and families, where kids can meet Anpanman. The museum is on the 2nd and 3rd floors, while 14 shops with exclusive Anpanman goods and food are on the first floor.
There is also a stage with exciting shows held every day. Kids can move around and play with different equipment around the museum. There is even a shoes-free area with soft playing equipment for children under one year old.
Find out more about Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum here on Google maps.
Top Restaurants in the Yokohama Station Area
Cheese Cafe 2
At this cafe, you’ll find foods from pizza, pasta, and cheese fondue. Everything on the menu is made with cheese. The famous fondue is made with five different types of cheese: red cheddar, mozzarella, Stephen, Emmental, and Gruyère.
This cafe is about a 10-minute walk from Yokohama Station. It is usually crowded with happy customers, so making a reservation is recommended.
Find out more about Cheese Cafe 2 here on Google maps.
California Diner PLAYERS
California Diner PLAYERS is an American bar 5 minutes on foot from Yokohama Station. The atmosphere is excellent, making it a great spot for a girl’s night or dates. All dishes are served mainly with meat cooked in the American style, and it also has delicious sake.
Find out more about California diner PLAYERS here on Google maps.
Roastchicken Club Fightingcock
Roastchicken Club Fightingcock is a restaurant in a quiet location about a 5-minute walk from Yokohama Station. The interior, decorated with concrete walls and high ceilings, offers a comfortable atmosphere.
The savoury roast chicken is the main attraction, made with flavourful spices and herbs, then slowly baked in a special convection oven.
Find out more about Roastchicken Club Fightingcock here on Google maps.
Goffo
The fashionable and lively Italian restaurant Goffo is about a 10-minute walk from Yokohama Station. The interior is warm, with a casual Italian restaurant-style decor. Terrace seats are also available, making it perfect for sunny days.
Find out more about Goffo here on Google maps.
Yokohama Nishiguchi Ichibangai
Yokohama West Exit Ichibangai is full of individuality, with seven stores gathered in one big space. If you want a wide range of food options, check out this place. From Korean food to meat, fish, noodles, and a variety of shops are all gathered here.
Find out more about Yokohama Nishiguchi Ichibangai here on Google maps.
Hotels in Yokohama Station area
Yokohama Bay Sheraton Hotel and Towers
Conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from JR Yokohama Train Station, Yokohama Bay Sheraton Hotel and Towers boasts an indoor swimming pool, a beauty salon, free in-room Wi-Fi, and six dining options and one bar.
Hotel The Knot Yokohama
A 5-minute walk from JR Yokohama Train Station, Hotel The Knot Yokohama offers rooms with free WiFi. Guests can enjoy various meals at the buffet restaurant and rent laptops for in-room use. Minato Mirai Subway Station and Yokohama Museum of Art are a 15-minute train ride away.
Address: 220-0005 Kanagawa, Yokohama, Nishi-ku Nanko 2-16-28, Japan
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Yokohama Higashiguchi
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Yokohama Higashiguchi is located in Yokohama, 5 km from Yokohama Marine Tower and 6 km from Nissan Stadium. With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space.
This guide to the Yokohama Station area should help you make the most of your visit, whether you’re looking to explore local attractions, enjoy delicious food, or find a comfortable place to stay.
Address: 221-0056 Kanagawa, Yokohama, Kanagawa-ku Kinkocho 5-10, Japan
Discover the Hidden Treasures in the Yokohama Station Area
Many people commute past Yokohama Station without realising the wealth of attractions, dining options, and unique experiences it has to offer. This massive station is not just a transit hub but a gateway to an array of cultural, historical, and modern delights waiting to be explored. From fascinating museums and beautiful gardens to vibrant restaurants and engaging activities for families, the Yokohama Station area has something for everyone.
Next time you find yourself in this part of Kanto, take a moment to step off the train and immerse yourself in the rich experiences that Yokohama Station provides. Use this guide to plan a wonderful outing and uncover the hidden treasures of the Yokohama Station neighbourhood. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in this dynamic and diverse area. Enjoy your adventure in Yokohama and make the most of all the fantastic opportunities it offers!
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