Our Favorite Hotels in Yokohama
– Five-star: Pier 8 InterContinental Hotel
• 4-star: New Grand
• ⋅ Inexpensive accommodation: The GuestHouse FUTARENO
• = Hostel: Central Hostel.
• = For Couples: Feel.
• Near Yokohama Station: The Richmond Hotel • = Narita Airport: Nikko Narita
Table of Contents
The Best Areas to Stay in Yokohama
Yokohama is Japan’s second most populated urban center and a significant harbor. It’s in the Kantō region in the Greater Tokyo Area with easy access from Haneda and Narita airports. With its attractive harbor, historic sights, and well known Chinatown, it’s an inviting place to invest a few days, though it sees a fraction of the travelers of Tokyo and Kyoto.
Yokohama Neighborhoods
A core decision will involve staying near Yokohama train station, which provides transportation convenience but lacks character, or exploring one of the city’s more intriguing neighborhoods. Yokohama Station sits northwest of the city center itself. It lies at the heart of a bustling area, open 24 hours, with many eating and shopping spots but little to see. Another three miles north, the bullet train (shinkansen) serves Shin-Yokohama Station. From there, transfer to a local train or subway to reach Yokohama Station and the rest of the city.
- Premium Accommodations: Loews Hollywood – Thompson – Kimpton Everly Hotel – Dream Hollywood – Hollywood Roosevelt
The gorgeous heart of Florence is a feast for the senses with its abundance of medieval and Renaissance art and architecture on display. The Piazza del Duomo has long been the spiritual center of the city, with its mesmerizing Cathedral (Duomo) crowned by Brunelleschi’s dome; Giotto’s Campanile, and Lorenzo Ghiberti’s (replica) Gates of Paradise gracing the doors of the the Baptistry across the way. The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo on the square contains sensational renaissance art, including the original “Gates of Paradise” and work by Donatello.
Within Yamashita Park on the bay, features offering pleasant views include a harbor promenade, the tall Yokohama Marine Tower structure from the 1930s, a former passenger ship now functioning as a renowned museum, and the Gundam Factory Yokohama. On the west side is the region of Noge (or Nogecho), renowned for nighttime entertainment and housing the city’s most significant Shinto sanctuary.
To the southeast lies Yokohama’s premier tourist region and Japan’s biggest (and earliest) Chinatown. There are a couple of colorful Chinese temples here, but this neighborhood is best known for dining, shopping, and cheap accommodations.
At the southeastern end of the city center are the Motomachi shopping district and the historic hilly Yamate. Foreigners settled in this area in the 1870s. It’s fun to explore, but there are few hotels here.
Getting Around Yokohama
Trains and subway lines connect Yokohama Station to most neighborhoods, though only buses travel to Yamate. Minatomirai subway line is the most convenient and links the central station with Kannai on the eastern side of Downtown. Explore Neighborhoods like Yamate and Chinatown on foot.
Recommended apartment rentals for families in Koh Samui. All units have kitchens and swimming pools. Most have washing machines/dryers and free wifi.
Safety in Yokohama
Yokohama is generally very safe, though the usual precautions should be taken at night.
The Best Places to Stay in Yokohama
- Best Luxury Hotels in Yokohama
InterContinental Pier 8 – New Grand – Kahala – Tokyu – Royal Park - Best Cheap & Mid-range Hotels in Yokohama
Some highly rated hotel options in the area include the GuestHouse FUTARENO, the JR-East Hotel Mets, the Super Hotel, the Bashamichi, the APA, and the Feel - Best Hostels in Yokohama
The Central Hostel and the Hiromas Hostel
Best Neighborhood in Yokohama for…
- Best area to lodge for initial visitors/sightseeing: Kannai or Minato Mirai 21
Residing in either Kannai or Minato Mirai 21 provides the most lodging choices at all monetary levels. Neither region possesses much historic personality, but transportation connections are satisfactory. There are numerous spots to eat, drink, and shop in both areas. Minato Mirai 21 is a modern commercial center with a agreeable waterfront. It connects to Shinkō Island and attractions, like the Port Museum, the Landmark Tower and observation deck, and the art museum. Across on Shinkō, there are the fanciful Cup Noodles Museum and Yokohama Cosmoworld amusement park. Kannai is the city’s original downtown, including Yamashita Park on the bay. Inland has a couple of history museums and the main baseball stadium.
- Most Romantic Neighborhood: Yamate
Yamate is an affluent historic area in Yokohama. It contains a combination of modern homes along with early 20th century mansions and theaters that were primarily constructed for Yokohama`s large foreign community during that time. While the architecture displays more Western influences than Japanese styles, it represents a pivotal chapter in Japan`s history. Yamate offers a fascinating setting to explore. Berrick Hall and the Ehrismann Residence are old houses that have now been converted into museums open to the public. Cherry blossoms decorate the parks during springtime. Visit the Iwasaki Museum located in a former Victorian theater. Take in scenic views from Harbor View Park Observatory, particularly at night. The romantic Enoki Tei serves desserts and afternoon tea. A short distance away from the busy city center are a couple tranquil hotels, Hotel Feel and KKR Porthill.
- Preferred Locale for Nighttime Activities: Noge
The area of Noge, located just south of Kannai, is the city’s main nightlife hub. Small bars, traditional izakayas, dance clubs, and even jazz clubs pack the narrow lanes. The Yokohama Partyzone Night Club and Velvet Night Club are popular among foreigners. Full Monty British Pub & Cider House has a British-style setting, while Royal Smoke is among many hookah bars in the city.
- Best Neighborhood for Food and Restaurants: Chinatown
It’s difficult to outdo Chinatown when it comes to cuisine. It mainly offers (obviously) Chinese dishes rather than Japanese. Locals like exploring Chukagai-Odori and Ichiba-Dori streets, sampling appetizers as they go. Try steamed buns at Wangfujing Honten, egg tarts at Douhatsu, bubble tea at Chai Tea Café, and panda-shaped buns and souvenirs at the remarkably common Rouishin.
For quality meals, notable spots include Manichinro (Cantonese, opened in 1892), Kyokarou (Sichuan), Saikoushinkan (high-end Cantonese), and the ever-prominent buffet-style Chinatown Hong Kong Restaurant.
Many easily accessible Japanese dining establishments, often with English menus, surround Yokohama Station. Fresh conveyor-belt sushi can be found at Mawashizushi Katsu, eel at Nodaiwa, sukiyaki and shabu shabu at Ningyocho Imahan, and flavorful udon at Yokohama Naka-ya.
- Best Neighborhood for Shopping: Motomachi and Minato Mirai 21/Shinkō Island
The Motomachi district is primarily renowned for its 2,000ft-long (600m) shopping avenue. High-end retailers, jewelers, diamond traders, leather products sellers, furniture shops, and china stores line the paths. Lacoste has a well-known store here, while JKPlanet and Bijoupiko are popular for gems and jewelryYokohama’s premier shopping centers are located in the advanced Minato Mirai 21 region. Queens Square Yokohama and Marks Is Minatomirai are excellent places to commence exploring. Yokohama World Porters,Marine & Walk Yokohama, and Red Brick Warehouse are superb retail centers located on Shinkō Island.
- The best neighborhood for families: Shinkō Island (Minato Mirai 21)
.
Green spaces and the bayfront promenade make Shinkō Island and neighboring Minato Mirai 21 popular hangouts for families. There is always something happening at the Red Brick Warehouse on the weekends. The Red Brick Warehouse offers event space located on the waterfront. Cosmoworld features amusement park rides and attractions. The quirky Cup Noodles Museum has colorful displays and engaging interactive workshops where one can experience the brand. The Yokohama World Porters shopping center has fun dining establishments (Hawaiian Café, Teddy’s Bigger Burgers, Wow Wow Lemonade, and Manoa Pancake House) as well as many fashion boutiques for browsing 
The 6 Best Neighborhoods in Yokohama for Tourists
1. Minato Mirai 21 & Shinkō Island
Yokohama’s brand new business district, just southeast of the main train station, is Minato Mirai 21 or MM21. Adjacent is Shinkō Island, connected by several bridges. The Ōsanbashi cruise ship pier and the best hotels in the city are here.
Dominating Yokohama`s skyline stands the iconic Landmark Tower in Minato Mirai 21. Measuring 972 feet (296 meters) tall, it represents Japan`s third tallest skyscraper. Visitors will find the most impressive views of the city, Tokyo, and Mount Fuji from the Sky Garden observation deck on the 69th floor. The area features brick walkways along the harborfront alongside the city`s premier conference and exhibition halls. Also notable is the Yokohama Museum of Art, primarily showcasing 20th-century Japanese and Western paintings. It`s worth noting the museum is closed for renovations until early 2024.
Housed in the port is one of Japan`s most renowned historic vessels, the Nippon Maru, at the Yokohama Port Museum. Visitors can board this four-masted teaching ship built in 1930 to explore the museum, wander around, and learn from the crew. It is a six-minute walk from the Museum to Sakuragicho Station and the Yokohama Air Cabin cable car that leads to Shinkō Island.
On Shinkō Island can be found the well-known Cup Noodles Museum. It honors the iconic instant noodle brand that was introduced in 1971. It also discusses Momofuku Ando, the “creator” of instant noodles in 1958 and the founder of the Nissin Japanese food company. For shopping and dining, there is the Red Brick Warehouse (aka Akarenga Soko), in two converted buildings dating back to 1911.
For kids, there’s the Yokohama Cosmo World amusement park. It features the enormous Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, and the Anpanman Children’s Museum, dedicated to the animated superhero “Anpanman” created by Takashi Yanase.
- The Best Hotels in Minato Mirai 21 & Shinkō island:
InterContinental Pier 8 Hotel Phone: +81 45 307 1111
The resort called ” Kahala” can be contacted at +81 45 522 0008
In Yokohama, Japan, the ” Tokyu” hotel can be reached at +81 45 682 2222 Here is a rephrased version of the original text while maintaining the HTML elements and links: The Royal Park Hotel can be reached at +81 45 221 1111. - Best Hostel: HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
- Best Midrange Hotel:
APA Hotel phone number is +881 57 005 5111
2. Chinatown
Around two miles southeast of Yokohama Station is Chinatown, the most tourist-oriented and lively part of Yokohama. It is primarily frequented by Japanese tourists and local youths, who hang out or wander the streets looking for tasty snacks. Similar to Chinatowns in the West but with local characteristics. It is a good place to eat, with fun shopping and flashy Taoist temples. However, this does not represent traditional Japan.
Yokohama`s Chinatown is far larger than any other in Japan, dating back to when the nation first opened globally in the 1860s. Today, it`s best known for eateries. Simple dumpling counters and bakeries like Rouishin draw long queues for cute panda-inspired steamed buns. In contrast, giant Cantonese emporiums, such as Manichinro, which has operated since 1892, provide seven-course meals.
Chinatown’s two chief temples are the only actual attractions. Compared to their Japanese equivalents, they’re bright and highly colorful. The two are part of the Chinese Taoist tradition and not Buddhist, whatever you may have read. The Kuan Ti Miao is dedicated to the War God, Guan Di. Initially, he was more like a patron of chivalrous warriors and is revered today as a god of wealth and learning. Guan Di was a quasifictional figure known as General Guan Yu in the Chinese classic “The Tale of the Three Kingdoms,” loosely based on the true events of the Three Kingdoms period from 206–220.
Nearby is the Mazu Miao Temple, dedicated to Mazu. Often seen in China as the Goddess of the Sea, she’s notably popular in Taiwan, Fujian, and Guangdong – the original homelands of the overseas Chinese that migrated to Yokohama. Mazu is another quasi-historical figure, a woman called Lin Mo-niang, born around 960 on Meizhou Island off the Chinese coast).
Compared to elsewhere in the city, hotels in Chinatown offer relatively affordable pricing but may lack the highest standards of quality. The neighborhood is better known for its dining options than places of lodging.
- The Best Hotels in Chinatown:
The Silverland Sakyo Hotel contact number: +84 28 3829 5295
The Rose Hotel phone number is +81 45 681 3311
Escale Hotel contact number: +81 45 681 2141 - Best Hostels:
The M Village Hồ Biểu Chánh Hotel contact number: +84 818 308 228
Hiromas Hostel Hotel contact information: +81 45 228 9886
3. Motomachi and Yamate
Motomachi Shopping Street is just south of Chinatown. The five-block stretch of Motocho Street presents upscale boutiques and stores. Parallel Motomachinaka Street is known as “Motomachi Craftsmanship Street” and accommodates jewelery, clothing, and pottery stores.
Yamate lies just south of the hills. Once known as `The Bluff,` it was a historic neighborhood where foreign traders built their lavish homes after Yokohama opened as a port in the 1860s. Essentially, it is an elevated ridge overlooking the harbor organized around several parks. It remains an affluent residential district, with modern Japanese dwellings interspersed with Western-style structures. Most were reconstructed following the devastating earthquake of 1923.
Several of the former houses from the Western-style hill area are now accessible to the public as museums, though none of the interiors retain their original state. Notable locations include the Spanish Revival Berrick Hall from 1930, the gracefully designed Ehrismann Residence from 1926, the ornately crafted Yamate Jubankan (presently used as a wedding venue and French restaurant, built in 1967), the Yamate Archives Museum from 1909, and the Enoki Tei bakery and teahouse from 1927.
The ancient Gaiety Theatre (1885, rebuilt in 1980) has now become the Iwasaki Museum, showcasing Japanese costumes, arts, and crafts from past times. The Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature in Harbor View Park hosts periodic displays, but little information in English. Check out the breathtaking perspectives from Harbor View Park Observatory, particularly at night. On a clear day, you can see the Tokyo Skytree in the distance).
Although these are major tourist destinations, accommodations are limited, and it`s convenient to visit from other parts of the city.
- The Best Hotels in Motomachi and Yamate:
The “ - Aston Waikiki Beach Tower” is located in Honolulu, Oahu Hotel accommodation Hotel phone: +81 45 621 9684
4. Kannai (Downtown) & Yamashita Park
Between Chinatown and southeast of Yamate is the old Yokohama city center, Kannai. It’s still home to Yokohama City Hall and the finest Western-influenced architecture.
Bashamichi Street is among the oldest and most atmospheric roads. Several notable buildings include the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Cultural History. It’s housed in the former Yokohama Specie Bank. It’s one of the city’s larger museums, with some labels in English. The exhibits are engaging even with a language barrier. They cover local prehistory, the medieval Kamakura era, and Yokohama after Japan opened up in the 1850s. There’s also a charming coffee shop and a good gift store inside.
The nearby Yokohama Archives of History is housed in the former British Consulate, completed in 1931. It’s a must for history enthusiasts. It lies at the site of the consequential Kanagawa Treaty of 1854. The small museum commemorates the moment and charts the rapid expansion of Yokohama that followed. Labels are in English. Kanagawa Prefectural Government Office building is further east in Nihonodori.
Structure enthusiasts should also explore the distinctive Port Plus building (2-22 Benten-dori). As Japan’s inaugural fully wooden and flame-resistant tall building completed in 2022, it merits viewing. Baseball devotees can check the schedule at Yokohama Stadium, home to the Yokohama DeNA BayStars baseball club.
On the waterfront, Yamashita Park features a pleasant green space and harbor walkway. Situated on the water is a 1930s ocean liner, now a renowned museum, NYK Hikawa Maru. Nearby on a pier, standing six stories tall, is Gundam, the famous Japanese robot, housed in a tower at the Gundam Factory. From here, one can also take harbor cruises. South of the park is the iconic Yokohama Marine Tower. From the top are spectacular views over the bay and colorful illumination at night.
Kannai is home to various places to eat and drink with a “European” style. Alte Liebe, open since 1965, has an interior and menu inspired by Vienna and France. Its neighbor, the elegant French-styled Café de la Presse, has outdoor seating. Scandia, open since 1963, offers cuisine of Scandinavia.
There are several good mid-range hotels here. It’s quiet at night, and its central location is good for exploring the city.
- The Best Hotel in Kannai & Yamashita Park:
New Grand Hotel contact number: +81 45 681 1841
The Hyatt Regency Hotel can be contacted at +81 45 222 0100. - Best Cheap/Midrange Hotels:
Super Hotel Hotel contact number: +81 45 650 9000
Bashamichi Hotel contact number: +81 45 227 6701
Edit Hotel phone: +81 45 680 0238
The Holiday Inn Hotel contact number: +84 28 3948 5050
5. Noge
Noge is another central district renowned mainly for its nightlife scene. Bars and restaurants cram the narrow lanes. The small Noge Food Alley remains open late into the evening. It is also home to the Nigiwai-za, one of Yokohama`s major theaters. The hills above the district house the Yokohama Civic Art Gallery and Iseyama Kotaijingu, the city`s most significant Shinto shrine. Dating from the 1870s but rebuilt following the 1923 earthquake.
Further up the hill is Nogeyama Park, which has excellent city views. The Nogeyama Zoological Garden is a small zoo that may interest families with young children..
- .
- Best Cheap/Midrange Hotel:
GuestHouse FUTARENO Hotel contact number: +81 45 308 8577
” Formatting, links and numbers are retained
6. Yokohama Station
The vicinity encircling Yokohama Station presents a convenient place to stay if traveling by train. However, there’s little of significance to behold here. There are excellent transport connections to the remainder of the city and Japan, and numerous dining and drinking areas stay open around the clock. The station itself is huge, busy, and rather perplexing initially. There are signs in English, and the JR personnel here tend to comprehend English. With some patience, you’ll deduce where to go, even with numerous exits and intersecting train lines here. If uncertain, request instructions from your hotel prior to arrival.
Large shopping centers and tall buildings surround the station. The restaurant food courts are convenient places to stock up on inexpensive food and snacks with countless options. Nearby attractions include checking out the Nissan Global Headquarters. The iconic car company hosts a gallery filled with some of its most famous car models and company history exhibitions, plus a stylish café by the river.
The bullet train does not stop at Yokohama Station. It stops at Shin-Yokohama Station, three miles further north, with transfer options to Yokohama Station).
Though not always inexpensive, you’ll find some quality hotels around the station. Japanese business travelers value the convenience of staying here as much as tourists.
- The Best Hotels around Yokohama Station:
Richmond Hotel Hotel contact number: +81 45 311 0155
Sheraton Hotel contact number: +81 45 411 1111
Unizo Hotel Phone number: +81 45 321 1070 - Best Cheap/Midrange Hotel:
The JR-East Hotel Mets can be reached at +81 45 317 0011
Yokohama With More Time
Note: There are many paths, ranging from wide, paved stroller‐and wheelchair–accessible to narrow trails. Regrettably, there are no park maps.
South Yokohama’s primary natural attraction is the traditional garden Sankeien Garden. It is celebrated for its beautiful cherry blossoms and blooming wisteria during the spring season, assorted historic teahouses located on the grounds, and a three-level pagoda (originally belonging to Tomyoji Temple).
Shin-Yokohama Station is the primary stop for high-speed rail, and the locality functions as an urban core in its own right. The bullet train to Shin-Yokohama Station takes 17 minutes from Tokyo and two hours from Kyoto. It’s five kilometers north of Yokohama Station, where regular trains or subway can be caught to access other sections of the city. There is little sightseeing available here but plenty of inexpensive dining options. For travelers using the bullet train, it may only be worthwhile to stay here for a brief trip. Otherwise, it is preferable to head into the main city. The most convenient choice is Hotel Associa Shin-Yokohamal situated within the station station itself.
Yokohama Travel Tips
- Blessing of the Animals Ceremony – In this annual ceremony at the Old North Church (where the signal lanterns were hung, “one if by land, two if by sea”), readings, prayers, and blessings for individual animals are offered. The event takes place on the first Sunday in October, coinciding with the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals and the environment. Post-ceremony snacks and mingling with pets and owners is encouraged.
- There is no purpose in remaining at either airport, given how simple it is to enter the city. If airport lodging is needed at Narita, the most convenient hotel is Nine Hours Narita Airport. ANA Crowne Plaza Narita and Hotel Nikko Narita offer more comfort just outside the airport.
- Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in Yokohama. Pedestrians and bicyclists share the sidewalks where paths are distinctly marked. Local cyclists often ride rapidly. Baybike is Yokohama’s bike rental program, with docks situated throughout the city center. Riders under 13 must wear protective headgear, however adults are not necessarily required to.
- Free Wi-Fi is available in and around Sakuragicho Station Square, Nippon Maru Memorial Park, and Grand Mall Park in Minato Mirai 21 under the network name “YOKOHAMA_Free_Wi-Fi”.
- Try to learn a few words and numbers in Japanese. Most hotels, some shops and restaurants, and staff at the main JR ticket office at Yokohama Station can usually communicate in basic English. Most signs in the station and around the city have an English translation.
