Yokohama lies just south of Tokyo on the shores of Tokyo Bay and is Japan's second-largest city. While it's often overlooked in favour of the capital, Yokohama has its own distinct identity, shaped by its history as one of the first ports to open to international trade in the 19th century. The revitalised waterfront is the city's focal point, with spacious promenades, modern architecture and attractions such as the Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park and the Cup Noodles Museum. The nearby Minato Mirai district combines shopping, restaurants and museums, while Japan's largest Chinatown offers a lively atmosphere and some of the country's best Chinese cuisine.
Beyond the waterfront, Yokohama rewards travellers with an interest in culture, gardens and everyday local life. The peaceful Sankeien Garden brings together historic buildings relocated from across Japan, creating one of the country's most impressive landscape gardens. Art lovers can visit a range of museums and galleries, while food enthusiasts can explore local markets, craft breweries and neighbourhood cafés away from the main tourist areas. Thanks to its compact centre and excellent transport links, Yokohama is easy to explore on foot and also serves as a convenient base for day trips to Kamakura, Hakone and Tokyo, making it a worthwhile destination in its own right rather than simply a gateway to the capital.