2022.01 Seven Unique Ways to Experience Yokohama [PR] Glide through the air, try a tea ceremony in the sky, and soak in the view from a hot spring bath; exciting ways to discover the port city of Yokohama
Just a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo, Yokohama is a port city that developed by connecting Japan with the world. Yokohama charms visitors with its sophisticated blend of Japanese and Western influences. From its rich history to its cutting-edge future, the city is popular with both local and international visitors.
1. Yokohama Air Cabin & Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel
Yokohama Air Cabin is Japan's first (and the most-advanced) urban circulatory ropeway. Glide across the cityscape in an eight-passenger cabin around 40 meters (131 ft.) above ground, for approximately 630 meters (0.3 mi.) one-way. The comfortable glass-walled cabins offer a 360-degree view of the bay area. It is thrilling to look down as you pass directly over the water between Canal Park and Sakuragicho Station. Another way to experience Yokohama from the air is the nearby Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, a symbol of Yokohama. Purchase a ticket set to ride both at the Yokohama Air Cabin ticket counter.
2. A tea ceremony in the sky at Yokohama Royal Park Hotel
The Yokohama Royal Park Hotel is located on the upper floors of the 70-story, 296-meter-high (0.18 mi.) Yokohama Landmark Tower. “Kaikoh-An” is an authentic tea ceremony room on the 65th floor known as the “tea room in the sky." Gaze over the city far below, and if the weather permits, you may even see Mt. Fuji in the distance. Experience a traditional tea ceremony room setting and learn about Japanese etiquette. While it is common to kneel during a tea ceremony, you are welcome to sit in any way that is comfortable for you. Seasonal wagashi sweets such as nerikiri (dumpling-like sweets made with white bean paste) and rakugan (lightly sweet sugar candy) are served with the slightly bitter matcha.
3. Enjoy the seasons at Sankeien Garden
This 17.5-hectare (43 acre) Japanese garden was built in the early twentieth century by Hara Sankei, an entrepreneur and tea ceremony master. It is dotted with many historical structures designated National Important Cultural Properties and as Cultural Assets by the city of Yokohama. The gardens are spectacular in every season, from fiery autumn leaves to delicate cherry blossoms in spring, daffodils, water lilies, and many more. With ponds, ancient bridges, tea houses, and even a pagoda, it is a beautiful place for a quiet stroll. You may even come across a bride dressed in a wedding kimono taking commemorative photos.
4. Soak in the views at Manyo-Club, Yokohama MM21
This eight-story hot spring facility has a Japanese design, and views of Yokohama’s Minato Mirai area.The water for bathing is brought in daily from Atami (Shizuoka Prefecture) and Yugawara (Kanagawa Prefecture), both of which are well-known for hot springs. Enjoy a variety of baths, including a Japanese garden-style open-air bath, a cypress wood bath, a private bath, and a large indoor bath. After bathing, you can put on a comfortable cotton yukata robe and explore the premises. There are a variety of relaxation options, including a rooftop footbath with a view of the Minato Mirai skyline, bedrock baths, massage treatments, and a restaurant.
5. Step back in time at Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
This museum draws ramen lovers with its unique appearance and opportunity to try ramen from around Japan. Several popular ramen restaurants are arranged around a nostalgic street scene that looks like a movie set from the 1950s. Besides the opportunity to enjoy Japan’s “soul food” and compare unique types of ramen, you can explore the retro style building. The scenery was designed by a film production company to recreate Japan’s bygone era of about 60 years ago in perfect detail.
6. Dine with a view on the Marine Rouge Yokohama Dinner Cruise
Cruise the bay area sights in style while enjoying French cuisine. The Marine Rouge departs from Yamashita Park for lunch, afternoon, and dinner cruises around the beautiful port city. The menu features authentic French cuisine inspired by Yokohama’s history. There are a variety of plans available, including a lunch cruise (90 minutes) and an afternoon cruise (60 minutes). For the most luxurious experience, take a dinner cruise (120 minutes) to enjoy the beautiful night view while indulging in delicious wine and a full-course meal.
7. Refresh with a bay area morning run
If you are staying in the bay area, take the opportunity to wake up early and enjoy a morning run around the Minato Mirai area. Rinko Park, the Red Brick Warehouse, and Yamashita Park are popular running locations next to the water. Enjoy the difference in Yokohama’s atmosphere, a working port during the day and a glittering leisure spot at night.
Yokohama is easy to access from Tokyo, but staying overnight is the best way to make the most of the beautiful port city. Take the time to enjoy a leisurely dinner and enjoy the night view. There are many ways to experience Yokohama. Beyond these seven ideas, you can also visit the city’s other gourmet and shopping areas, including Yokohama Chinatown and Yokohama Motomachi Shopping Street.
Related Links
East meets West—Comparing Yokohama’s Most Vibrant Areas |
WEB:https://www.japan.travel/en/japan-magazine/east-meets-westcomparing-yokohamas-most-vibrant-areas/ |
YOKOHAMA OFFICIAL VISTORS’ GUIDE |
Facebook【Yokohama Visitors Guide】 |
YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN |
Giant Ferris Wheel “COSMO CLOCK 21” |
WEB:http://cosmoworld.jp/ (Japanese) |
Yokohama Royal Park Hotel 65F Tea Ceremony Room “KAIKOH-AN” |
Sankeien Garden |
Manyo-Club, Yokohama MM21 |
Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum |
Marine Rouge Yokohama Dinner Cruise |
WEB:https://www.yokohama-cruising.jp/ (Japanese) |
Bay Area Morning Run
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