Yokohama

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Eco-friendly travel guide to Yokohama advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to explore the attractions in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Yokohama, Japan.

Overview of Yokohama


  • Air quality: 4 / 5
  • Exploring by foot: 3 / 5
  • Exploring by bicycle: 3.5 / 5
  • Public transportation: 4 / 5
  • Parks: 4 / 5
  • Outdoor activities: 4 / 5
  • Locals' English level: 2,5 / 5
  • Safety: 4 / 5
  • Accommodation: US$150 - $280
  • Budget per day: US$250 - $400

Responsible Travel

Yokohama is an exciting city located on the Western coast of Tokyo Bay. It's the second-largest city in Japan. The city is renowned as the first port for foreign trade. It was affected by the Great Kanto Earthquakes of 1925 and the firebombing of World War II as well. Moreover, it never really recouped its prominence. Nonetheless, the city still attracts foreigners. Yokohama has lots of provisions for your responsible travel. As an eco-friendly tourist, here are some of the public transport you can use to get in and around the city:

  • Train: Train systems are well-connected to the nearby cities. You would find that the overwhelming majority of tourists that arrive at Yokohama use trains, especially those from Tokyo city. Some of the train networks that connect the city include: Toyoko Line, JR Shalom Shinjuku Line, JR Toido Maina Line, JR Keihin Tohoku Line, Keihin Kyuka Main Line, and the list goes on. You can shuttle to the fascinating city of Yokohama by using one of the trains in the mentioned network.
  • By bus: It is a reliable means of transportation around the city. These buses are very cheap and connected to all corners of the city. These buses look like old Red buses and mostly operate in Yokohama to Minato Mirai, Motomachi, and Chinatown. They're accessible and run every 20-30 minutes. A ticket cost 4100.
  • By boat: It's as well known as "Sea bus" and operates between East exit JR Yokohama, Minato Mirai, and Yamashita Park. One of the best means to get around, especially on a sunny day.
  • Walk: Walking around the city is quite possible in some parts like Yamaskita whereas other areas are compact and walking isn't the best option.

Here are more tips for your responsible travel:

  • Eat local food
  • Visit the city parks
  • Do not litter around
  • Visit nearby beaches
  • Support local business and shop in local markets


Air Quality and Pollution

Yokohama is an industrialized city; air pollution is a norm. Most people do research concerning air pollution on a journey to a new city. The reason for this is that they are health concerns. Long-term exposure to pollution will constitute health problems, and thus people fear it.

During the winter, air pollution in Yokohama and the entire country increases coming from industries, vehicle fumes, as well as the daily activities of residents. Japan is against air pollution and try as much as possible to tackle it.

As pollution curbing technic, Japan educates both the public and business communities about the dangers of air pollution and is investing in effective control technology.


Respect the Culture

By visiting the city of Yokohama, you have time to explore and interact with the locals since they are friendly and welcoming.

The indigenous culture of the people originated primarily from You people; a language group settled in Japan between 1000 BCE and 3000 CE.

The official and primary language of the people in Japan is Japanese. As a foreigner, you'll experience a language barrier though some people speak English but not fluently.

Japanese culture's primary influence is the Western countries. Today, it is ranked the best amongst the leading and most prominent cultures across the globe.

That is because of the global reach of its popular culture. The crime rate in the city is low and very safe to visit for tourists. If you take precautions, as in your home country, you'll be safe.


Top 10 Places to Visit

Yokohama is an exceptional place to explore, and if you have a plan to visit, you are in the right option. The city is home to numerous superb spots you can explore during your vacation. Below are the top 10 places to visit in Yokohama:

  • Zoorish: It's located in Asahi-Ku, and home to more than 450 animals across 100 species. As an African Savannah zone, it's a unique area where zebras, giraffes, and also bovine elands live.
  • Osanbashi Pier: Osambeshi is situated in Naka ward. This is the destination for Japan and overseas ships that come and go in Yokohama. It's a scenic sport that clasps a panoramic view of the Yokohama Port Area.

You can explore Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and as well as Yamashita Park. The ground floor of the building is for packing, and the second floor is used for facilities such as customs. The building is designed in pillar-free space, and the rooftop is covered with natural grass. You would find many people watching ships here.

  • Kishamichi Promenade: It's located near 2-chrome Minato. It has an area size of 500 meters long and stretches across most of Yokohama. You can visit this place by shuttling a train at JR Sakunagicho station and walking is the best option along the Promenade.

This route will lead you to the Yokohama Brick Warehouse in the Shiko area. You can explore this fantastic place during Japan's Cherry Blossom season held here to acknowledge Cherry Trees along the Kishaminachi.

  • Nippon Maru: Nippon Maru knew as 'Swan in the Pacific Ocean' because of its amazing appearance. It's a ship in 1-1 Minatomirai. Moreover, it's designated as a national cultural asset carrying more than 10,000 cadets for about 50 years since its completion in 1930.

You can explore the inside of the ship for just a small fee. What makes this more attractive is cadets' rooms, the office of the captain, and the office's Saloon selected for officers to have their meals and meeting as well.

  • Cupnooodles Museum Yokohama: Cupnoodles Museum is located in 2 Chrom 3-4 Siko Nakawak ward. They display Momofuku Ando's creativity, the inventor of the World-renowned Chicken Remen, and Cupnoodes.

Moreover, you can indulge in the process of making Noodles, which includes kneading and seasoning of wheat flour. It has cinemas and the option of choosing your soup also with ingredients, to make your own original Cupnoodes.

  • Sankeien Garden: It's a beautiful garden with a historical building design. Sankeien is located in Hanmakusannotani. As a tourist, you can take a stroll to discover flowers each season and 10 Jupunete Historical sites displayed as Tangible Important Culture Properties.
  • Yokohama Cosmo World: Yokohama Cosmo World is a port in Monaro Mirai 21. Foreigners are attracted by its Cosmo Clock 21, one of the largest clock-style Ferris across the globe.

It's 112.5 Metres tall to facilitate the panoramic view of Yokohama during a ride that lasts about 15 minutes. It has 60 Goulds; 4 of them have transparent walls and floors that make you imagine floating in mid-air.

  • Yokohama Museum of Art: It's in Minato Mirai 21, and it displays modern masterpieces by local and international artists. The design of the building is something of a landmark.

On your entrance, you'll first come to the grand gallery having a 20- meter high Atrium. There's also a museum shop and cafe attached to the Yokohama Museum of art. A fabulous place to explore.

  • Hakkeijima Sea Paradise: It's an amusement park with four aquariums, and kid-friendly attractions, and as well as restaurants and stops. The park is one of the largest Aquariums in Japan and home to 700 lands of creatures.

You can indulge in activities such as fishing at Umi Farm, sea riding, including the amazing Surf Coaster that operates across the Sea, and the Sea Paradise Tower.

  • Yokohama Motomachi Shopping Street: Motomachi fashion portrays the culture in Yokohama. It's a Kilometre away from JR Ishikawacho station. This shopping street is one of the coolest places in the city and full of design boutiques that attract many people.
Osanbashi Pier


Explore

The city of Yokohama is immensely home to superb places that attract tourists globally. Being among the top cities in the world and home to 3.7 million people, it often attracts visitors from its rich culture, heritage, and history.

As a visitor, Yokohama has numerous museums, landmarks, city, and national parks that you can visit and make your trip memorable. Besides this, the city often offers popular cuisine shops with some lip-smacking dishes.


City Parks

  • Yamashita Park: Yamashika Park is in front of Yokohama Port. The park was opened in 1930 and became a symbol of Yokohama recovery after it was affected by the Great Kando Earthquake of 1923.

The park is 700 meters long from the east side of Osanbashi to Yamashita. The first park in Japan is at the seaside. Yamashita is a mysterious place with a variety of flowers, fountains, and many statues that include "Famous Girl with the Red Shoes", the Girl Scout, and also Yokohama Sisters City San Diego.

  • Rinko Park: Rinko park is a charming place to visit in every season though a little alluring from late winter to spring. It's well worth visiting if you have some days to spend in the city.

During the night, you can view the Minato Mirai area beyond the curving coastline. Rinko is a huge seaside park that immense you in its beautiful scenery while feeling the cooling sea breeze.

Rinko Park


National Parks

  • Shiretoko National Park: Shiretoko National Park is situated on the island of Hokkaido and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It has a high population of brown bears. For lovers of adventures, this park is charming enough to explore by boat or foot.

  • Nikki National Park: It's a park located near Tokyo in the Kanto region, renowned for its gorgeous beauty and among the most popular destinations in Japan.

Moreover, it has been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mount Yoshino is home to over 30,000 Cherry trees, the most famous Cherry blossom viewing location in the country of Japan. For those who love picnics, here is a superb destination to explore and make your trip worth it.

Shiretoko National Park


Beaches

  • Oarai Sun Beach: It's a dazzling beach located in eastern Ibaraki Prefecture Seaside Park Oarai Sun Beach. It is a coastal resort and the best place that offer surfers and beach volleyball enthusiasts who come from all over the county to take part in summer contests competition.

Other than swimming and surfing, there's also an aquarium with sea offers and dolphins, a marine tower, and a seaside Shrine nearby.

  • Yurigahama Beach: Yurigahama Beach is a mysterious sandbar with its incredible magic trick located on the coast of Yoron Island.

It's has a magic trick of disappearing. Before you embark on a journey for a trip to this amazing spot, you must beware that it's quite tricky to reach in all months of the year.

The beach appears a bit crowded from April to September. So, it's recommended you get an update from their website. Despite the slight inconvenience, Yurigahama is the nicest for exploration because a visit to a disappearing beach is quite a unique experience.

Oarai Sun Beach


Landmarks

  • Yokohama Bay Bridge: Yokohama Bay Bridge is worth visiting and a spinning part of Yokohama Bay. It's distinctive H-shaped is supporting more than 170 signal cables in a standing futuristic design.

Other than carrying cars, it also has an excellent pedestrian walkway named Ky Walk that enables tourists to get out of this marvel.

  • Land Tower: Landmark Tower has an elevator to zip you up to the top of the building for you to view the city of Yokohama. On a clear day, you can catch a view in some places like Mount Fuji soaring in the distance. However, the entrance fee to Landmark Tower is high.
Yokohama Bay Bridge


Museums

  • Yokohama Port Museum: This was formerly known as Yokohama Maritime Museum. There's an enormous aerial photographic floor map just when you enter the Museum. In the free zone, before entering Yokohama Port Museum proper, there is a display of the scale of the beach, putting the Minato Mirai 21 area into perspective. Inside, there's a permanent Museum exhibit consisting of the part of the Yokohama Zone and the Port of Yokohama rediscovery Zone. The history Zone act as an example to trace the development of Yokohama and factors which make Japan's port popular around the globe.
Yokohama Port Museum


Eat

Yokohama is among the first cities in Japan to open its doors and accept the Western culture. They also have several things exclusively invented there.

In terms of food, Yokohama City is a place to be. While in Yokohama, you would have many top dining options at Yokohama station, such as the East Exit of Yokohama Station that is open directly into the part shopping mall, Tonkatsu Wako in Porta, pour over the coffee shop on Marios 2nd floor.

In Yokohama, there are many with high experience and qualified chefs. The food you will not miss enjoying while on your vacation at Yokohama are Rice porridge, Rice Noodles, Tofu pudding, and soybean milk.


Traditional Local Restaurants

  • Hello Kitty Cafe Restaurant: It's one of the best local traditional restaurants in the city of Yokohama, based around the iconic Japanese characters that have gained worldwide game over the last forty years. As a visitor to the region, you will enjoy in ways you have never before. The restaurant is a suitable spot for fans of connoisseurs of food art, with most of the dishes such as salads, desserts, and signature lattes decorated to impress. While in the restaurant you will get to enjoy local food, and also you will not miss to get along with the locals. Hence, you will also learn about their culture and their way of life.
  • Konohana: Konohana is one of the best traditional restaurants in the city; one cannot afford to miss the opportunity of an experience. It is located on the Bay Sheraton Hotel 8th floor. The restaurant itself is decorated and polished, giving its elegant name Konohana which means flowering trees. You will miss quite a bit of a selection of set menus for lunch and dinner. Expect delicious meals such as beautifully -presented octopus tempura, plenty of buttery sushi with fresh wasabi and plum sauce and vegetables. Also, their staff are welcoming and are available to make a recommendation. Yokohama will be a fantastic one if you pay a visit to Konohana.
  • Manchinro Hotel: It's one of the lavish Chinatown's most popular restaurants with elegant traditional Chinese decor. Moschino Hotel is a place to be. It offers a variety of set menus and options that includes the chef's recommendation of seasonal dishes. Also, it has more budget-friendly menus for lunch. As a tourist at Yokohama City, make your day exciting by making your date with Manchinro Hotel.


Vegetarian and Vegan

In Yokohama, there's a vegetarian and vegan restaurant that uses local and organic ingredients as much as possible of which mostly are locally acquired, since most of the locals in the country of Japan are vegetarians.

As a traveler, you will not miss the vegetarian dishes of your choice. Some of the best accommodative and pocket-friendly vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Yokohama City are:

  • Bill Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
  • La Vela
  • Buffet Dinning Ocean Terrace.
  • Chefs V Yokohama Landmark Tower
  • Sushi Zanmai Yokohama Chukagai East Gate


Street Food

  • Annindofu: It has a gentle sweetness, super smooth and slippery texture, and mind almond-like flavors. It is made with apricot kernel milk, which gives it a pleasant fresh after taste. It is subtly sweet, and it is also light on the stomach. It's a great food to end with after indulging in your favorite Yokohama Chinatown street foods. You can try one, you won't regret it.
  • Mensen: It's a Taiwanese Oyster noodle soup made with Oysters and Misua and even pork intestines. It is super warming, and Yokohama Chinatown street Mensen is a must-try. Also, it is budget-friendly.


Drink

The country of Japan is pretty much a drinker's paradise and always has been. Many visitors in Yokohama city and Japan at large look forward to enjoying local alcohol like Japanese sake, shochu, and Zhuhai, which is good.

If you always drink, don't hesitate to test them but avoid drinking excessively, since you are in a foreign country. Don't forget that drinking under the age of 20 is against the law or even purchasing them. As long as you are over 20 years, you're free to drink; be sure to carry along a passport for identification.


Tap-water

Japan's tap water is drinkable and safe. So, as a visitor to the city of Yokohama, you should not fear anything your safety is guaranteed.

The national water infrastructure is reliable, and purification facilities are well-maintained in that case. Therefore, tap water is of good quality and safe for drinking and any other use.

Most supply of water in Yokohama is from dams, reservoirs, or rivers. As a visitor, you need not carry a case of water; they got you covered.


Organic Cafés

The city of Yokohama attracts so many people be it local or tourists around the globe. And many of them prefer unprocessed food since they are free from chemicals and they're fresh hence good for their health.

That has encouraged the emergence of many organic cafes in the city. If you intend to explore them, you need not worry. Here is a list of some of them:

  • Herbs Yokohama Lumine
  • Cafe Elliott Avenue
  • A Happy Pancake Yokohama Chinatown
  • Chai Tea Cafe Honten
  • 18 &Ima


Breweries

There are many breweries factories within Yokohama. If you are interested, you can pay a visit to those factories. You will get to learn about the process of producing alcohol and packaging in about an hour.

Then after the tour, fresh alcohol testing and shopping for sweets and alcohol lovers spot. They are optional tours for families as well as regular tours. Some of such families are:

  • Karin Brewery Company Yokohama
  • Yokohama Bay Brewing Kannai
  • TDM 1874 Brewery
  • Spring Valley Brewery Yokohama


Activities

There's plenty of things to do in the city of Yokohama that will make your day super exciting. It has many historical places to visit and make your vacation like no other, and here are some of them.

  • Travel back to 1958 at Shin Yokohama Raumen museum
  • Explore Japan's biggest Chinatown
  • Elevate your view at the landmark Tower Sky Garden
* Immerse yourself in nature at Sankelen Garden
  • Discover how it all began at the Yokohama Archives of History


Yoga and Retreats

If you intend to visit Yokohama or you are already in, you should prepare to enroll in a variety of groups and customized individual classes of Yoga in Yokohama.

It helps one to develops happy minds and healthy bodies. Also, it is enjoyable. They teach a traditional style of Yoga that includes Vinyasa Flow, Ashtanga, and Hatha Yoga at individuals' levels and pace. Yokohama is home to a Yoga retreats. During this retreat, you will expert a unique atmosphere and teaching.


Accommodation

Yokohama is the second-most populous city and the largest urban agglomeration in Japan; getting adequate accommodation is not a problem. As a tourist, you have diverse accommodation options you can explore on your vacation. You can find luxurious hotels, five-star, four-star, and even three-star hotels, in the preeminent region of Yokohama. Also, they are cheap and budget_friendly. The following are a few of the available options you can choose from for accommodation in the city of Yokohama.


Green Hotels

  • Intercontinental Yokohama Pier 8: This is among the best luxurious hotels in Yokohama City. It is located within the city, just 1.9 kilometers from Yokohama Marine Tower near Tokyo Haneda International Airport and 29 kilometers from the hotel making it more accessible. As a visitor to the city, International Yokohama Pier is a place to be; they provide accommodation with restaurants, a bar, private parking, and a garden. Nevertheless, the hotel offers a buffet and an American breakfast. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk room service and luggage storage for guests. There is no doubt that you will enjoy your stay at the hotel. The hotel is surrounded by populous places of interest like Yokohama Red Brick warehouse Yokohama cosmo world.
  • Yokohama Royal Parkhotel: It's one of the specious hotels within the city, above the 52nd floor of the Yokohama landmark tower. Royal Park Hotel Yokohama is only 29 minutes walk from Red Brick Warehouse and Yokohama Chinatown. They offer free Wi-Fi, and views of Yokohama Bay Bridge. You can also enjoy various cuisine at eight dining venues in the hotel. Also, guests can take a swim at the indoor pool at the fitness center. All their rooms are neat, spacious, and air-conditioned. The rooms also have carpeted floors and a flat-screen satellite TV.
  • Hyatt Regency Yokohama: It is a luxurious world-class renowned classic hotel with the best hospitality ever in the city. It is located just about 300 meters from the Yokohama marine tower. They offer a decent accommodation facility with a modern restaurant, private parking, a fitness center to buy your time with, and a bar.

Accommodation is a nice one which features a concierge service and enough luggage storage space for all guests. They also provide a 24-hour front desk service, room services, and free Wi-Fi covering the entire property.

Furthermore, you will enjoy a buffet breakfast every morning at the hotel. Also, you will not miss accessing points of interest within its proximity. They include the Yamashita Parkland Yokohama stadium, Tokyo Hanada International Airport which is a few kilometers from the hotel.


Hostels and Guest Houses

In Yokohama, there are several decent hotels and guests house which offers accommodation service. For travelers who prefer unfussy accommodation with a personal touch, these guest houses are ideal for you.

They are usually family-run, and your host will provide local recommendations and optional meals. They are mostly cheaper as compare to regular hotels in the city. Below are some of the hotels and guests' houses you can explore while in the city.

  • Guest House Futareno: It is situated in Noge district and is only a five-minute walk from Sokuragicho and Hinodecho station. Their services are quality and budget-friendly. They offer a cozy atmosphere with free property-wide Wi-Fi. Also, their guestrooms come with bunk beds and feature wooden decor. Although their bedroom facilities are shared with other guests, you will not miss free luggage storage that is available to all. Also worth mentioning are the health and hygiene measures that are taken seriously in the facility.
  • Bamboo House: It is situated in the heart of Yokohama Motomachi and Chinatown. It is a comfortable place you can explore; you can enjoy the galleries, cafes, and bars. Also, you will not miss the beautiful cityscape of Chinatown. They offer free WiFi, complimentary toiletries to all their customers, and chargeable luggage space. All their rooms are air-conditioned. They also have a state of the art shower rooms. Shampoo and body soap are available freely, towels and linens are chargeable. As a visitor to the city, take your time and visit Bamboo House for accommodation and catering.


Apartments

If you intend to stay in the city for quite some time, renting an apartment is a good idea for you. This because they are spacious, affordable, and also suitable for family and friends. Security is well guaranteed.

Looking for an apartment in Yokohama city is very easy; you can book via phone by applying for rental within three days of intended occupancy. Moreover, there is a rental agreement to sign with the owner just for security purposes. So finding an apartment to rent in the city is a good move.


Couchsurfing

In Yokohama, couch surfing is a norm since many locals offer their homes to host and gathers locals and travelers for free. As a tourist, couch surfing is the best when you are not staying for long. You will get a chance to interact with locals, enjoy their meals, and learn about their culture as well.

And it's the best way to experience Yokohama like a local. Reach out to a host in Yokohama to discover unique places to stay and locals to stay with by visiting their social media platforms and register for free and start interacting with locals. It is free, but you would only need to motivate them by buying them gifts and even thanking them for their service.


Camping

If you are already in the city of Yokohama or intending to visit, there are many public places of interest you can explore to make your day. You may visit those areas with friends and even families or anybody you trust. Below are some of the camping sites you can explore while on your vacation to the city:

  • Twin Ring Motegi: It is located in Tochigi prefecture and is a nature-rich camping site surrounded by forests. They provide various camping plans from regular camps and log cabins. As a visitor, you also get a chance to experience activities like canoeing and riding in a hot air balloon.
  • The Farm camp: This is one of the best campsites you can enjoy. It is located in Chiba prefecture. You can spend your time camping in a vast farming field and experience harvesting Vegetables the farm grows. It is an enjoyable experience ever. They have five glamping plans; a large tent, a hammock, luxury BBQ dinner, beds, etc.

There, you enjoy farm cafes that serve salads, pizza, and pasta cooked with pure freshly pick vegetables at an affordable price.


How to Get There

Getting to the city of Yokohama is not a big deal; the country of Japan has a good infrastructure so, traveling to any corner of the country is faster and secure.

You can either choose to travel by road, air or rail. When you are already in the city of Yokohama and want to travel around, you can choose to hire a convenient taxi, take a limo bus, or any other means you wish. The following are some of the available means of travel to the city of Yokohama:


Air

Yokohama does not have its airport, but you can reach Yokohama from Tokyo's two main airports; Narita airport and Haneda airport that is only a 30 minutes drive to Yokohama. On landing at Tokyo airport, there are many other means of transportation to use. You can also opt for limousine buses to the city of Yokohama at an affordable price.

Haneda airport


Bus

Traveling via train in Japan is cheap and convenient since they have a railway line connecting various cities. There is a multitude of train lines connecting Yokohama and other cities. Some of the more convenient options are :

  • Minato Mirai line
  • Sotetsu Line
Bus Yokohama


Train

If you want to get around using other means of transportation, they are also available. Yokohama is home to Japan's affordable taxis, automated bicycle, and numerous bicycle-sharing systems.

Additionally, these bicycles use sharing systems. These are services in which bicycles are available in some places to be shared in short terms for a price or free. You can borrow a bike from a "dock" and return to another dock that belongs to the same system.


Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is also possible in the city. Just ensure you make the right inquiry and it would better be done in a group.


Others

If you want to get around using other means of transportation, they are also available. Yokohama is home to Japan's affordable taxis, automated bicycle, and numerous bicycle-sharing systems.

Additionally, these bicycles use sharing systems. These are services in which bicycles are available in some places to be shared in short terms for a price or free. You can borrow a bike from a "dock" and return to another dock that belongs to the same system.


Moving Around

Transport in Yokohama is modernized. You can reach the city by public and private rail, as well as good highway networks. Also available are airports for international, domestic, and general aviation; motorcycle delivery services, buses, bicycling, walking, and commercial shipping.

If you're looking for a convenient mode of getting around the city then trains and buses are the best options; you can choose a train if you're in a hurry or a bus if you would not mind the time while exploring other interesting parts of the city.

Moreover, your JR pass can offer transportation between Yokohama at the city center and Yokohama station in a couple of minutes. There are two municipal subways as well. You should try and stick to luxurious buses that connect the Akaikutsu Loop Buse from Sakuracho Station with most of Yokohama's major sights.


Walk

Yokohama has around 4 million inhabitants. However, visiting major parts is possible in an interesting one-day walking trip.

Some parts of the city aren't favorable for a visit by walk because they are compact and busy. Instead, you can move around by convenient mode of transport like buses.

On your one day nice trip, the best way to explore the city center is actually by walking with a combination of expensive boat shuttle services.

If you're lucky and there's clear visibility in the sky, then visit the Landmark Tower by walking. In case it is a rainy day, you shouldn't worry as the city has numerous museums that are interesting and also worth visiting.

In case of adverse weather, and walking isn't possible, you can use the Akai Kutsu Bus that connects all corners of the city to tourist places.


Bicycle

In Japanese mode of transportation, bicycles, as well as walking have been major forms of transport.

These bicycles are available even in the train station; you can rent and take a ride to superb places for a more worthy and experienced trip. Moreover, if you own a bike and want to shuttle a train to a certain destination, then you should purchase an advanced ticket where there's a bike space.


Electronic Vehicles

Japan's automobile is popular and produces quality vehicles. You would find most of the people prefer electric vehicles to diesel and petrol vehicles. Japan's government introduced the first electric vehicle incentive program in 1996 and incorporated it in 1998. Also, with the Clean Energy Vehicles Project which provided assistance and discounts that enabled them the purchase of electric, methanol, natural gas, and hybrid electric vehicles, more people can now access such vehicles.


Public Bus

Exploring the city of Yokohama by use of a bus is quite a better option. These buses are entered through the front door, and you are required to pay your fare as you enter the bus.

Furthermore, when you reach your destination and want to exit, get off at the rear door. Many city buses depart from bus 1 or 2 in the Bus Lane of Yokohama Station East exit Bus Terminal.

Traveling by public bus is conveniently accessible and the cheapest mode of transport in Yokohama.

Charges apply depending on age. Children under 1 year of age can ride free of charge, and preschool children between (1-6) age bracket can ride for free only if accompanied by a paying adult.


Tram, Train and Subway

Yokohama station has the most extensive urban railway network and the busiest station in Nagawa prefecture and the fifth busiest in the World as of 2013, serving 760 million passengers annually.

In Japan, railway systems are owned by different companies. Moreover, Yokohama is served by four railway companies; Tokyo Railways, Japan Railways, Keikyu Railways, and Sagami Railways, and two municipal subway lines that are operated partly by the city and private bus companies. If you intend to visit the city of Yokohama, then using a train is a must.


Sustainable Shopping

The city of Yokohama is a well-developed city that offers sustainable shopping. The city of Yokohama is at the heart of Kanagawa prefecture, to Yokohama Station a 30-minute train ride from Tokyo.

Yokohama Station is renowned for its popular business and lots of shopping centers. Enjoy shopping for any budget in the city be it traditional arcades or high-end stores and outlet malls.

Yokohama Station has all kinds of products you'd need at a fixed price or negotiable making it a perfect stop for Japanese Souvenirs and also brand name products.


Food Markets

Yokohama is well renowned for its flavorful and heavenly food in Japan. The traditional neighborhood is enthusiasts of traditional food, sophisticated, and refined cuisine.

Moreover, in recent years Japanese food has become more fashionable and popular in the USA, Europe, etc. Some of the delicious food in Japan are; Tempura, Sushi, Noodles, and Teriyaki.

The range of food markets in Yokohama is diverse depending on your needs and there are several places to cater to various sorts of rich tastes. Below are some of the popular markets in the city:

  • Yokohama City Central Wholesale Market
  • City Market Yokohama Halalal Food and Spice Home
  • Haisai Okinawa
  • Bonraspail Yokohama


Flea Markets

Some of the stores in Yokohama are extremely expensive while others are moderate to cheap. It's possible to grab what you love by bargaining, and you have a high chance to pick some seriously unique items at a lower price while you're at it. Some of the best know flea markets include:

  • Koshigaya Shirakobate Suijo Park Flea Market
  • Aoyama Farmers Market
  • Komazwa Olympic Kyodai Fleamarket


Second Hand Stores

Second-hand stores in Yokohama are there so, your apartment won't be empty. If you're new to the city you should first depend on second-hand items to stock your apartment to be comfy and livable without going broke. Some of these stores include:

  • Recycle Garden Shin-Yokohama Shop
  • Purchase Sales Market Moulin Yokohama Nishiguchi
  • Eco-Antique Itsezaki Mall Store


Eco-Fashion

Japan's textile industry is popular across the globe. Eco- friendly fashion is taking roots not only in Yokohama but also in the whole country. You would find the majority of locals in eco-friendly attire. In other words, people are fashion freaks. Such stores which you can visit for eco-friendly fashion are:

  • Eco-wear market
  • Uniqlo Yokohama Shop
  • 6-Star Raw Store


Recycling

Japan has the best-designated waste management. Container and Packaging Recycling Law is a policy to be adhered to in Japan to manage waste disposal. The locals are required to follow sorting guidelines established by the municipalities. Municipalities collect the sorted waste material and store it for the recycling company to collect. In 2008, Japan targeted to reduce the total waste from around 52 million tons in 2007 to 50 million tons by 2012


Waste

Japan has the lowest recycling rates in the OECD, and 78% of the remaining waste is incinerated, but you'll find the waste problem goes beyond the consumption scale. 437 million tons of waste were generated in 2014, of which 44 million tons were municipal wastes, and the remaining 393 million tons were industrial wastes. In 2016, the 10% million tones produced by municipal, about 925 grams a day for each person living in Japan.


Work and Study Abroad

Japan is home to the most prestigious universities across the globe, and the best way to study in Japan is to receive scholarships at Japanese universities.

Moreover, to enroll in one of the popular universities you need to have a valid passport, completed years of formal education in your home country, you must have an accredited high school diploma, health insurance, and documents that prove your ability to afford the cost of living.

Job opportunities for foreigners are available; you can apply and work in big companies or part-time jobs.


Exchange Student

lready mentioned that universities in Japan are the best ones. The beauty of Yokohama attracts millions of foreign students. Some of these universities include:

  • Yokohama National University
  • Yokohama City University
  • Kanagawa University Yokohama Campus
  • Tokyo Elwa University


Au Pair

The concept of au pair in Japan is a norm you would find locals indulging in it. There're numerous hosting families looking for au pairs so, if you intend to be an au pair in Yokohama, it's possible.

Be aware that there are requirements to comply with when becoming an au pair in Japan; you must be unmarried without children, at least 18 years old, and no more than 30 of age. You should have sufficient funds ( 2000 Euro) to support yourself at first days in the city and valid insurance. You can apply for au pair in Yokohama on online platforms.


Volunteering

If you're an enthusiast of volunteering then, you have the opportunity of exposure to numerous organizations in the city of Yokohama. You can volunteer in many activities for little payment or free. Organizations are diverse depending on their niche so, you should volunteer in a field that you've skills and experience.

Some of these organizations include Jambo Volunteer, Tokyo Volunteering Meetup, and others. Volunteer to one of these organizations to contribute to their growth.


See Also