Tour a World Cup stadium

In 2002, Japan had its first-ever FIFA World Cup finals victory at this stadium, now the home of local team Yokohama F. Marinos. Relive the moment with the ‘World Cup™ Stadium Tours’ (details at www.nissan-stadium.jp/english), and get ready for the stadium’s turn to host the final match of Rugby World Cup 2019™.

Mingle with local fans

A cheerful diner and bar near the International Stadium Yokohama, which gets especially crowded whenever a match, event or concert is happening at the stadium. A buffet lunch here will only set you back ¥1,000, while the nighttime all-you-can-drink plan is priced from ¥3,980.

Hunt for Japanese outdoor items

Check out the nation’s beloved outdoor brand’s seaside branch. In this spacious shop, you can find top-notch equipment for marine activities and hiking. For ¥3,900 a day, you can rent the brand’s bikes and cycle around the city in style. Taking advantage of its waterfront location, the shop also offers kayaking lessons.

Make your connection

The Yokohama City Air Terminal (YCAT) is a one-stop centre for all your travel needs. There are shuttle bus services to Narita and Haneda international airports, as well as highway buses to cities like Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe and Hamamatsu. You’ll also find currency exchange, a café and a convenience/drug/gift store here.

Customise your Cup Noodles

Instant noodles are big in Japan. At this interactive museum you get to have fun while learning about the creative-thinking process of Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant noodles, by seeing, touching, playing and eating. You can also make your own original Cup Noodles at My Cupnoodles Factory.

Visit an international icon

Hard Rock Cafe’s Yokohama branch is unmissable, thanks to the huge guitarshaped neon sign at the entrance of Queens Tower. Live music performances take place regularly, and don’t forget to order the Yokohama-exclusive sukiyaki burger. The attached shop carries a sizeable memorabilia collection of top musicians.

Gaze out from a ship-deck rooftop

Known as ‘the whale’s back’ among locals, this international port sees passenger ships arrive and depart, but the real reason to visit is the sweeping view of Minato Mirai, the city’s seaside urban area. The rooftop is designed to look like a ship’s deck and invites you to linger longer with wooden pathways.

See worlds collide through art

Yokohama has played a major role in the history of Japanese photography so it’s fitting that this art museum holds a substantial photo collection. This art-enthusiast hotspot displays works showing an interplay of European and Japanese modern and contemporary art.

Kick off your rugby night

As its name suggests, this sports bar is where rugby fans gather. You can combine craft beer, meals and your passion for rugby here: watch the games on its four screens while enjoying a premium selection of craft beer from around the world, including those from the current top rugby countries.

Grill beef with the locals

ACraving chunks of meat and mega-sized high balls? This tiny yakiniku (beef barbecue) joint is the place to be. Start your evening by lining your stomach here, strike up a conversation with some locals, and then continue your adventures in the alleys of Noge. Yokohama nightlife in a nutshell.

Jump into the jungle

Did you know there’s a jungle in this port town? At Orbi Yokohama, Sega’s entertainment technology gives you the chance to experience the wonder of the wild with all your senses. Go on, pet a capybara or armadillo – if you dare…

Run over the sea

You can see more than 120,000 creatures large and small at the Aquamuseum and touch marine animals at this ‘leisure land’, which consists of an amusement park and aquarium. At the attraction area, don’t forget to ride the sea-crossing Surf Coaster.

Eat out at a yokocho

Hungry? If you are at Minato Mirai, check out the alleyway-inspired dining floors at Dockyard Garden. Spread across B1 and B2 of the Landmark Tower, you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving international cuisines as well as classic Japanese dishes such as gyoza, udon and yakitori. At the World Beer Bar & Restaurant, you can enjoy over 250 kinds of international beer, of which 20 are on tap.

Hang out with other sports fans

If you’re looking to watch a sports game at bar, head to Benny’s Place. It also serves a range of American diner-style dishes, such as the popular chunky sparerib steak, which you’d need to pre-order in advance. After the game, stick around and play a few rounds of darts.

Dine out in style

The upscale Hotel New Grand has seen many a famous figure pass through its doors, and its restaurants offer a variety of dishes and drinks. At Il Giardino, you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. For a relaxing dining experience, opt for the terrace seats facing the hotel's central courtyard.

Experience zazen meditation

Originally founded in Ishikawa prefecture about 700 years ago, this temple was relocated in 1911 to its present place in Yokohama. This temple welcomes guests from around the world for zazen meditation training (English sessions are offered at ¥500 once a month. See sojiji.jp/english for details).

Appreciate wagyu with a view

With its accessible location connected to Yokohama Station, this hotel has become a destination for both tourists and locals keen on quality food without wanting to stray too far. At teppanyaki restaurant Sagami, you can enjoy prime wagyu beef alongside romantic views of the Yokohama skyline.

Wine and dine the French way

Located at the middle of Noge alley, this pretty bistro offers authentic French dishes as well as a variety of wines from around the world. Try the sauteed sea bream: the rich sauce is a perfect complement to the delicate sea bream, and its served with grilled vegetables and mashed potatoes.

Take a stroll in a historic garden

We have silk trader Sankei Hara to thank for this beautiful Japanese garden built in 1906. Besides pretty ponds and paths, it features precious historic buildings, including a three-storey pagoda from Kyoto and a daimyo’s (military lord) house, and stays open until dark during cherry blossom- and firefly-viewing seasons. At the memorial hall, you can participate in a tea ceremony and drink a cup of matcha (green tea) for only ¥500.

Follow Yokohama on Instagram

Yokohama is a city where you’ll be constantly discovering something new and exciting every day. Follow the city’s Instagram @ findyouryokohama_japan for many mesmerising and inspiring images. You can also share your own Yokohama pictures with the hashtag #myyokohama

Savour local veggies

Located on the west side of Yokohama Station, this restaurant is a local favourite and has been in business over 25 years. Meals are made with local vegetables, while every bit of their burgers are homemade: even the pickles are their original recipe. Irregular live or DJ performances are also held.

Ride the giant clock

Holding a Guinness World Record for being the tallest Ferris wheel with a clock, Cosmo Clock 21 is a top tourist attraction, offering splendid vistas of the city during its 15-minute ride. Ride one of the transparent gondolas to enjoy 360-degree views of Yokohama.

Cruise the sky

Yokohama is a port city packed with sightseeing tours – including this aerial one. Hop on a helicopter to get the best views ever and make your Yokohama experience unforgettable. Flights are offered on Fridays, weekends and holidays.

Treat yourself to some view therapy

Modelled after a yacht’s billowing sail, this hotel occupies one of the most iconic buildings in Yokohama and houses an exclusive spa where you can enjoy both a massage and gorgeous ocean vistas at the same time.

Watch the ancient art of noh

Noh and kyogen are both forms of classic drama and considered two of the world’s oldest performing arts. Watch them here along with other traditional Japanese arts like Ryukyu buyo as well as new works through international collaborations. The second Sunday of every month is Kyogen Day, when tickets go for just ¥2,000.

Sleep in marine surrounds

All rooms on this hotel’s Bay Club floor are designed with an ocean theme – think blue carpets and white beds – while the suites offer eye-popping panoramic views of Yokohama’s port. Sleeping by the sea doesn’t get more comfy than this.

Grab a British pint

This authentic British pub is the country’s oldest cider house. Here you can enjoy a selection of ciders from around the world, as well as a good range of craft beer. Besides their popular food menu, don’t miss the Fish & Chips Night every Wednesday as this classic dish is offered at only ¥500.

Have a toast with Kilkenny

If you crave an authentic shepherd’s pie or fish and chips, come to The Green Sheep, the only Irish pub in Yokohama. It opens till late and the bar is spacious enough to accommodate a big crowd. Do note that it gets especially crowded on game nights.

Go bar-hopping

Yokohama’s drinkers love this: Noge-Tegata is a special coupon created to let you bar-hop at ease. For a mere ¥3,000, you’ll get special offers at almost 70 shops which display a special flag. Buy yours at JR Sakuragicho Station’s New Days or the Family Mart on Noge Naka-dori.

Shop in the sea breeze

Located by the seaside in Minato Mirai, this open-air mall is like a small town complete with a selection of unique shops, cosy mini-parks and trendy restaurants. It’s also a favourite for locals walking their dogs, while another sort of animal-related quirk awaits by the bathrooms.

Watch a ball game over beer

The home ground of the professional baseball team Yokohama DeNA Baystars, Yokohama Stadium has a capacity for 30,000 people. Sip the team’s original brews, such as the Bay Star’s Lager, while enjoying the game and take in the slight sea breeze from the nearby Yokohama Port.

Jog through the port town

Runners flock to the area known as Minato Mirai because of its wide streets and upbeat atmosphere. The Space has changing rooms, and you can rent running gear and shoes here too. Lockers and showers are also available for ¥650.

Dive into the jazz scene

Sip some sake

Don’t know much about sake but are curious to learn more? Head to this standing bar that serves 100-plus types of sake. The staff here are knowledgeable and can give recommendations based on your preference. It’s just ¥300-400 per glass, so be careful.

Experience a city hot spring

If you can’t manage to get away for an onsen retreat, a trip to this mega spa is a good second best. Enjoy the indulgence of the Yugawara Onsen as well as massage treatments, a restaurant with a fantastic city view, and a choice of hotel rooms should you wish to stay the night.

Taste ramen from all around Japan

The world’s one and only ramen museum is actually more of an eatery/shop: you can sample ramen by nine different restaurants (including vegetarian options) from all over the nation, and buy ramen-related utensils or instant ramen to enjoy at home.

Hop aboard an amphibious bus

A swimming bus tour seems like the perfect way to make the most of this historic port town, inviting you to enjoy the city and the refreshing breeze from the water.

Down a pint of fresh beer

Factory tours are always fun, but beer brewery tours are a special kind of treat. Head to brewing giant Kirin’s plant to see how suds are made and down a few pints afterwards. The factory also houses several restaurants, including the craft beer-focused Spring Valley Brewery. Note that calling ahead for a booking is recommended for the brewery tour.

Sail on an old-school houseboat

If you’re up for some entertainment fit for a shogun, book your spot aboard an old Japanese houseboat (yakatabune) and dine on authentic cuisine while taking in the views. If you’re still not convinced, the magic words ‘unlimited drinks’ and ‘karaoke on a tatami mat’ should do the trick.

Drink on the cheap

The Noge area is great for drinking. One of the best examples is this ’80s disco-style bar, where all the drinks, including a large selection of cocktails and vodka from all over the world, are ¥500 and snacks ¥250, and no table charge.

Munch on a huge bun

It’s always fun to go on an eating binge around Chinatown. Many food stands will try to tempt you, but don’t miss the buta-man at Edosei. It’s said to be the biggest steamed pork bun in Chinatown; the juicy minced pork and soft bun are so satisfying.

Gaze across the ocean

Located right in front of Yokohama Port, Yamashita Park was the first seaside park in Japan. The park, which stretches for a few blocks and is popular with couples, is a great spot to gaze out towards the ocean or watch the ships cruise into the Osanbashi terminal. Count yourself lucky if you find a vacant bench: they’re usually full.

Beef up on wagyu

Loved for its delicious gyunabe (a traditional beef pot which is slightly different from sukiyaki), this long-standing restaurant is renowned for using exclusive Kobe beef and kuroge wagyu in its dishes. Traditional Japanese kaiseki dishes are also available.

Mill around in traditional garb

Yokohama was one of the engines of Japan’s modernisation during the Meiji period, but the city still holds traces of the preceding era. Try renting a kimono or the more casual hakama for your stroll through this historic town. Better yet, pick up a rickshaw in front of the venue for the perfect photo op.

Master karate

Think you know kung fu? Well, you still might want to learn some Japanese martial arts too – a pursuit that can be realised at this karate dojo. The two-hour lessons are offered in Japanese, but English guidance is available.

Be a hipster among history

Originally customs houses, these historical warehouse-style buildings were cleverly redeveloped in 2002, while retaining their retro appeal. Building No. 1 now serves as a cultural hall equipped with event and exhibition spaces, while building No. 2 is home to cool shops, bars and restaurants. The nearby Red Brick Park is worth checking out too.

Let your tastebuds travel to Vietnam

This little wooden Vietnamese café is located near Chinatown’s Choyomon Gate. Cafe Giang is legendary in Vietnam, and Japan was finally graced with an outpost in April 2018. Indulge in their authentic Vietnamese coffee or a banh mi sandwich.

Unleash your inner shopaholic

In this beautiful port town, there are a wide range of shopping options to fulfill all needs and budgets. Check out the shopping institution Don Quijote, classic department stores Sogo and Takashimaya, and casual shopping malls Porta, Bay Quarter, More’s and Joinus.

Ride a bus on water

Don’t forget: Yokohama is a port city, which means public transport isn’t just limited to land. So try the water transport around Yokohama Station and Minato Mirai areas. It’s only 5 to 10 minutes between stops, and there are four services an hour at most.

Stay beneath the railway tracks

Under the elevated tracks of Hinodecho Station you’ll find five tiny houses on wheels. The complex includes a hostel, a café lounge and a SUP (stand-up paddleboard) station. Dorms go from ¥4,200, while a tiny house starts at ¥20,000. At the SUP station, you can take a class to paddle through the city.