Visiting Japan with kids? Look beyond the usual destinations and consider Yokohama, a vibrant port city just south of Tokyo. Yokohama offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amusement, making it a perfect choice for a family vacation. This comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable Yokohama adventure with your little ones.
Contents
hide
Why Visit Yokohama with Kids?
- Kid-Friendly Activities: From interactive museums to exciting amusement parks, Yokohama caters to children of all ages.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse your family in Japanese history and traditions through museums, gardens, and festivals.
- Easy Accessibility: Yokohama is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to navigate with kids.
- Delicious Food Scene: Indulge in a culinary adventure with your family, from traditional Japanese ramen to Western favorites.
- Safe and Family-Friendly: Yokohama boasts a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families.
Things to Do in Yokohama with Kids
- Cup Noodles Museum: Explore the history and science behind everyone’s favorite instant food at this interactive museum. Kids can even design their own cup noodles!
- Yokohama Cosmo World: Get your adrenaline pumping at this seaside amusement park with thrilling roller coasters, carnival games, and stunning harbor views.
- Minato Mirai 21: This futuristic waterfront district offers plenty of family fun with its museums, shopping malls, and the iconic Yokohama Landmark Tower observation deck.
- Nippon Maru Memorial Park: Take a step back in time and explore the Nippon Maru, a historic Japanese sailing ship, now a museum showcasing maritime history.
- Docksides: This harborside complex features a variety of family-friendly attractions, including an aquarium, a pirate ship ride, and a VR experience zone.
Best Places to Visit in Yokohama with Kids
- Yokohama Chinatown: Immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture of Yokohama’s Chinatown, the largest in Japan. Sample delicious dim sum, explore traditional shops, and witness cultural performances.
- Sankeien Garden: This stunning Japanese garden complex offers a peaceful escape from the city. Kids can explore the traditional tea houses, ponds, and manicured gardens.
- Yokohama Port Museum: Learn about the history and importance of Yokohama’s port at this interactive museum. Kids will enjoy the ship models, hands-on exhibits, and harbor tours.
- Yokohama Hakodate Market: Discover a feast for the senses at this bustling seafood market. Sample fresh sushi, watch chefs prepare dishes, and choose unique souvenirs.
- Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery: Car enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy this free museum showcasing Nissan’s history and future innovations. Interactive exhibits and car displays keep kids engaged.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Yokohama
- Minato Mirai 21: This district offers a modern and convenient location close to major attractions like Cosmo World and the Landmark Tower. Many family-friendly hotels and restaurants are available.
- Sakuragicho: Located near Chinatown and the Yokohama Port Museum, Sakuragicho offers a lively atmosphere and easy access to public transportation.
- Kanagawa Station Area: This central location provides convenient access to various city sights and offers a variety of accommodation options, including family-friendly hotels.
- Yamate: This historic district offers a charming atmosphere with Western-style architecture and beautiful parks. However, accommodation options are limited compared to other areas.
- Negishi: This quiet and residential neighborhood offers a budget-friendly option with good access to public transportation. However, it’s farther from major attractions.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Yokohama
- Sheraton Yokohama Bay Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers stunning harbor views, spacious rooms, a children’s pool, and various family-friendly amenities.
- Yokohama Royal Park Hotel: Located in Minato Mirai 21, this hotel boasts a convenient location, spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids’ playroom.
- Hotel New Grand: This historic hotel offers a unique experience with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a children’s playroom.
- Kanagawa Prefectural Government Office Yokohama Annex Hotel: This budget-friendly option provides clean and comfortable accommodations with a convenient location near Kanagawa Station.
- APA Hotel & Resort Yokohama Kannai: This affordable hotel chain offers comfortable rooms and a central location, making it a good choice for budget-conscious families.
Best Time to Visit Yokohama
The best time to visit Yokohama with kids depends on your preferences:
- Spring (March-May): Enjoy pleasant weather with blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures. Be aware of crowds during cherry blossom season.
- Summer (June-August): Offers warm weather for outdoor activities, but be prepared for hot and humid days.
- Autumn (September-November): Enjoy comfortable temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December-February): Offers the least crowded time to visit and allows for unique experiences like winter illuminations. However, be prepared for colder weather and potential for occasional snow.
How Long to Stay in Yokohama
The ideal length of your trip depends on your family’s interests and pace. However, here are some suggestions:
- Short trip (2-3 days): This allows time to visit the top attractions like Yokohama Cosmo World and Chinatown.
- Medium trip (4-5 days): Allows for a more relaxed pace, exploring additional attractions and experiencing local culture.
- Extended trip (1 week or more): Ideal for families who want to delve deeper into Yokohama’s offerings, including day trips to nearby destinations like Kamakura or Hakone.
Yokohama Family Itinerary
Here’s a sample 3-day itinerary for families visiting Yokohama:
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore the interactive exhibits and create your own cup noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum.
- Afternoon: Take a thrilling ride on the Ferris wheel and enjoy the panoramic views of Yokohama at Cosmo World.
- Evening: Enjoy delicious Japanese ramen in Minato Mirai 21.
Day 2:
- Morning: Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere and explore the diverse shops and restaurants of Yokohama Chinatown.
- Afternoon: Take a peaceful stroll through the serene Sankeien Garden and learn about traditional Japanese landscaping.
- Evening: Enjoy a cruise on Yokohama Bay and witness the city’s dazzling night skyline.
Day 3:
- Morning: Learn about Yokohama’s maritime history at the Yokohama Port Museum.
- Afternoon: Explore the bustling Yokohama Hakodate Market and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies.
- Evening: Visit the Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery and discover the fascinating world of automobiles.
Getting Around Yokohama
Yokohama boasts a well-developed public transportation network, making it easy to navigate with kids.
- Trains: The efficient JR trains and Yokohama Municipal Subway connect major areas within the city and surrounding regions.
- Buses: Buses offer a convenient option for reaching specific locations. However, navigating the routes might be more challenging for non-Japanese speakers.
- Taxi: Taxis are a comfortable option for short distances or when carrying strollers or luggage. However, they can be expensive for longer journeys.
- Yokohama Air Cabin: This unique cable car offers scenic views of the Minato Mirai 21 district and connects the Yokohama Station area with the harbor.
By following these tips and utilizing this comprehensive guide, your family is sure to have an unforgettable and enriching experience exploring Yokohama, a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone.
