Experience the Latest Trend of yokohama 2009

Exploring different flavours of Yokohama city

Charusheela Sakhare (United States)
Charusheela Sakhare
(India)

My name is Charusheela Sakhare. I'm from India. I have been living in Japan for 8 months . As this is my first experience in Yokohama Japan , I am touched by the warmth and friendly environment I got here. Yokohama incorporates various flavours of life styles . It's a kind of East West merger . This has been a unforgetable journey for me . Also it's quite easy to explore your ways as various sign boards and maps are always available. Even a non Japanese speaking person like me can wander around without problem .

Soul of yokohama : Osanbashi pier

The Pier stands at the entrance to the Port of Yokohama and greets ships of all kinds from around the world. A beautiful landing pier bridge that boasts of wooden decks , symmetrical curves and post modern architectures. Catch the panoramic view of yokohama port from the spacious rooftop.

What better place to be than here, on a pier that stretches into the harbor, offering panoramic views of gorgeous downtown Minato Mirai.

Osanbashi Pier is one of the most famous spots to take a date because from this pier one can get a 360 degree view of downtown Minato Mirai's beautiful night skyline, and especially with nightly illuminations, this spot is very hard to beat from December to February. Another nice thing is that there's no admissions fee and the park stays open until 21:30 everyday. There's also a place for snacks and beverages on the basement floor.

Osanbashi is a beautiful place , and the amazing part is that , you can have a look at the hill side view as well as the bay side view at once.

People can enjoy spectacular view of the seagulls flying above the bay bridge , ships sailing in and out of the port , altogether the harbour view and , the tall,beautiful famous buildings of Yokohama at one glance.

On one hand a relaxing breeze sweeps across the surface of the sea calms you, and on the other hand you can feel the beautiful and tall buildings touching the sky , as if telling you that sky is the limit for human creations !

This is an excellent place for ametuer photographers , various events are also organised here as this place looks perfect for events , commercials and videos.

You can spend peaceful and great moments with your friends and loved ones here.

This place is not only amazingly beautiful but also gives a soothing effect ,for a while I felt hypnotized by the beauty and forgot about the crowd around. I just loved this place !

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East - West merger : A glimpse of western life style , Yamate seigo kan

If for a change you are looking for a place other than crowd and shopping areas , this area is perfect place to wander around. you can enjoy solicity and peace here .

I started exploring this area firstly by visiting Harbour view park also known as Motomachi park , Its an beautiful park , giving spectacular view of the harbour .

The blossoming roses from the rose garden here captures your heart. I think this is the reason why this place is famous among youngsters , as this is slowly becoming a dating spot.

Next was a few minutes of walk , on a perfect sunny day ,I felt a kind of calmness in the air ,as this area is quite and not much crowded. There are few foreign residentials which are preserved till date and open for visitors free of cost.

With the presence of many European-designed residences, walking along the Yamate Bluff district gives one a radically different feeling to the modern Yokohama.

Here you can catch a glimpse of western way of life . The residential buildings which are preserved are named as Bluff No 234 , Bluff No 18 etc , here Bluff stands for Hilltop.

proceeding towards Bluff No 234 ,its a 2 storeyed building , here identical floor plans are placed on both sides of the central entrance , i was amazed by the fact that once 4 families used to share this house !

A good example of collective housing intended for use for the foreigners.

Wandering down the lane , the peace and greenary around touched me and i appreciate that there are some benches outside for visitors to sit and enjoy solicity here , and to get refreshed.

Another beautiful western style architecture is Ehrismans residence , I was wondering how lavishly and luxuriously these houses were made ,I feel a unique architecture and its great that such beautiful houses are maintained very well till date.

This house is famous for its design details that characterize this house.

You can also catch a glimpse of Yokohama City from another hilltop ,this place is the beautiful Italian Garden having Bluff No 18 on one side and Diplomats house on another side.

Yet another amazing building , Bluff No 18. This house has seen many phases , first was a foreign residential then used by Yamate Catholic Church and now experiencing life as a museum.

The Diplomats house is very attractive ,and quite big. With beautiful interiors and furniture. there's also a small collecton of dolls from various parts of the world. even I could find my country`s doll there !

This house has been shifted from Tokyo , the owner of this house wanted to regain the same architecture. The house indeed shows the affection of its owner , and thus visitors can get capture the beauty of this architecture.

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Delicious home made cakes at Enoketei caf è

After all the various crowded places and shopping areas I have been to , now this was the time to refresh myself. And this cafe is a perfect place to enjoy your cup of tea with some excellent homemade delicious cakes ,sandwitches and hambergers are also served!

The ambience of the cafe is very good.

The cafe is built with an western style of architecture , once a residential mansion.

The cafe resides in a beautiful house which has been delicately restored to preserve its traditional feel.

The tea at the Enoki-tei was such an authentically seedy-colonial experience, with chintz and elderly oak gateleg tables, that I could have believed myself in Victoria, British Columbia.

But I found it a bit hard to choose from various options of cakes present there in the menu. In fact there was a special menu with photographs for each of the cake , I guess there must be more than 20 varieties. while having the delicious dessert and refreshing tea , its diffcult to keep the track of the time passing by.

While having the delicious dessert and refreshing tea , its diffcult to keep the track of the time passing by.

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Unique designer cakes at Star Jewellary caf?

The way Star Jewellary is famous for its beautiful designs of Jewelry , similarly , you can find various , and unique designs of the cakes and pie's in the Star Jewelry cafe .

I loved the way ,different cakes were designed and decorated .

No one can just resist themselves from having a byte of such beautiful designer cakes .

The cafe is not very far from Star Jewelry shop (Motomachi) , it takes only 5 mins from the shop to this cafe. sometimes the lanes may be confusing , but its not a big deal.

Details:The Star Jewelry Cafe, owned by the established jewelry brand Star Jewelry, which opened in 1946 with its main shop in Motomachi and has since opened other shops across Japan. In the sophisticated

setting provided by the jewelry company, you can enjoy a delicious lunch, beautiful cakes that taste and look great, and original drinks. Highly recommended for a relaxing time off the main street.

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Exploring different aspects of Yokohama city

I believe that Yokohama City holds something for everyone.

There are different aspects of Yokohama City whether its a shopping lane of Motomatchi or quite and calm lanes of Yamate Seiyo-kan displaying the western style architectures which were once foreign residence,

The various museums , historic places , the scene of fast life of Yokohama City from calm stood Osanbashi Pier , and other numerous places .

Each and every place portrays a beautiful and classic picture of Yokohama city.

I appreciate the cleanliness and neatness at all of the places I visited. also its easy to find the place you are looking for , because of the sign boards.

Sometimes the lanes can be confusing , but still its not a big deal because there are many sign boards , as well as maps available at distant places , which helps a lot.

I admire the way every one greets with a warmth and friendliness.

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I introduce the latest trend of the port city, Yokohama!

Rickardo Samuels (Canada)
Rickardo Samuels
(Canada)

Hello, my name is Anthony Rickardo Samuels. I am 23 years old, and I come from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I would like to introduse you to the amazing city of Yokohama! Yokohama has a wonderful view of the harbor and the trend of Japan and Japanese traditional culture......There are many attractive spots in Yokohama. I think that Yokohama is one of the most appealing city in Japan. If you could come here, you would experience the latest trend of Japan! I really recommend you to go to Yokohama once at least! >Recommended Spots in Yokohama.

Map of Yokohama

SANKEIEN GARDEN

Beauty of Japanese Garden “Sankeien”- Experience the authentic Japan

Thirty minutes from the center of Yokohama is the full-fledged Japanese garden of Sankeien, which sits on a massive land area of 18 hectares. The harmony of the seasonal flowers and the seventeen historical structures gathered from Kyoto and Kamakura makes this setting the best place in Yokohama to enjoy authentic Japan. Also not to be missed is its antique art collection and seasonal events like the "Kangetsu Kai" (moon viewing gathering) and the "Kanno no Yube" (nighttime cherry blossom viewing). The garden is also well known for its plum blossoms in winter, cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, and the changing colors of leaves in autumn, making it popular among foreign visitors.

[Park Hours] 9:00-17:00(Entrance until 16:30)
[Address] 58-1 Sannnotani Honmoku Naka-Ku Yokohama-shi

Reporter's experience

The Sankeien Garden was very beautiful. I was awe by all of the building I was able to see. I am very big fan of Japanese Culture and learning more information about the Tokugawa Shogunate. The garden is laden with flowers and all is home to much of the history and culture of Yokohama. I really enjoyed being able to join in a real tea ceremony and learn more about the fascinating Japanese Culture. My most favorite part of the garden was the collection of old furniture and art found in the museum. A great place in Yokohama to visit to learn more about traditional Japanese culture.

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YOKOHAMA DOLL MUSEUM

You can find your country doll here!!

We have many historically valuable dolls which are approx. 10,000 dolls from 140 countries around the world. Now features displays of blue-eyed dolls, which contributed to cultural exchange between Japan and America, along with documentary photographs of those days. Also displayed are traditional Japanese festive dolls and local dolls, as well as mechanical dolls. Visitors can enjoy staged doll shows (subject to admission fees) at Red Shoe Theater on fourth floor.

[Access] 15-minute walk from Kannai station on the JR Negishi Line/2-minute walk from the Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line)
[Opening Hours] 10:00-18:30(gate closes at 18:00) /Close on Monday of the 3rd week each month (close on the day after if this Monday is a public holiday) except July, August and December.

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Yamashita Park

Nowadays for people in their twenties, Yamashita Park is the prime dating spot!! This park commands a romantic view of the Bay Bridge and ships passing through the port. There are many monuments showing international cultural exchange such as "The Girl with Red Shoes Statue", "Indian Water Fountain", and "Water Guardian Statue", a gift donated by San Diego, USA.

[Admission] Free

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SEA BASS

By Sea Bass, you can enjoy the beautiful and Romatic Sea Views!!

You can transfer between the popular spots in Yokohama watching the lovely views of harbor in Yokohama! 20-minute one-way ride between MM21 (Pukari Sanbashi / Pier Akarenga) and Yokohama Station East Exit, as well as Yamashita Park/China Town Area.

[Times of Departure] Every 15 minutes from 10:30 to 20:10.(Departures from Yokohama Sta. East Exit: Every 15 minutes between10:10-19:35.) * Ferry timetable will change depending on the season.
[Routes] Yokohama Station East Exit «-» Pukari Sanbashi «-» Pier Akarenga «-» Yamashita Park
[Fare] JPY300~JPY700(Adults)

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Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse & Park

Curious Spot As Like In The Moveis!!

Lovely red brick buildings with their original facades (about 100 years old) have been refurbished from top to bottom. Building No.1 is equipped with a hall and multi-purpose space for various events, while Building No.2 has 31 shops selling a variety of food and goods and restaurants including one incorporating live music, and a beer restaurant(garden). Outside you can also relax in an area with greenery and trees in the surrounding park.

[Opening Hours] Shops: 11:00-20:00. Restaurants: 11:00- 23:00 (depending on the store)/Open year round
[Access] Approx. 6-minute walk from the Bashamichi Station or the Nihon-odori Station (Minatomirai Line)/15-minute walk from the Kannai Station or the Sakuragi-cho Station (JR or Yokohama City Subway)

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Monjya-Yokotyo Kannaiten

A hot place to eat, introduced on TV and in magazines!
Monjya is an original old town food, where you gather around the iron plate and frying your own monjya. It's teppanyaki, frying the chosen ingredients (seafood, meat, vegetable) and eating when they're ready. Its like Japanese version of pizza, also like okonomiyaki. You use a little spoon, eat little at a time, burning the monjya, which is an unique old town dish. Choose your favorite ingredient and that's it. Our staff will help you so no need to worry. Just come and try.

[Opening Hours] 17:00-5:00
[Access] 3 minutes on foot from Negishi Line Kannai Station

Reporter's experience

I loved this place very much. It was my first experience eating what is called "Monjyayaki". A combination of so many different foods to make many unique flavors. I could not believe my tastebuds it was so amazing. Master Yoshida, or "Yoshida-san" is well-spirited and happy to show first timers how to really enjoy truely unique part of Japanese cuisine. I believe that this place is enjoyed at its best with a group of friends as it adds to the fun. Full of smiles, good people, and good food. There is nothing more that a person can ask for when trying to have a good dining experience in a new place.

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The Yokohama Landmark Tower

This 70 story skyscraper at a height of 296 meter is a symbol of Yokohama. The tower has a hotel and halls, and the view from Sky Garden on the observatory on the 69th floor is superb. At the Landmark Plaza, next to the tower, you can enjoy shopping.

[Opening Hours] 10:00-21:00(Saturdays and during summer vacation: Open until 22:00.)/Open year round
[Access] 3 min. walk from Mainatomirai Sta.(Minatomirai Line)/5 min. walk from Sakuragi-cho Sta.(JR or Yokohama City Subway)

Reporter's experience

This is definitely a place for everyone who visits Japan to see. The Yokohama Landmark Tower is easily accessible from JR Sakuragi Cho Station after a 10 minute walk you are right at the front door. Located in the beautiful Minato-Mirai area of Yokohama, it simply breathtaking. This is the most romantic place I have ever been to in Japan. The Tower can lift the loving romantic spirit of any relationship. I would gladly recommend this place to any couple foreigner and Japanese alike. I have visited many places in Japan and by far this was one of the greatest places I have ever visited.

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Yokohama Excel Hotel Tokyu

Hotel Features

It's located just next to Yokohoma stations west exit. Conveniently for Business and Sightseeing. We provide the Rakuten Special Price!!

[Hotel Details] http://web.travel.rakuten.co.jp/portal/my/info_page_e.Eng?f_no=828
[Room rate] Single Room JPY8,900~/person(Save up to 50%), Twin Room JPY6,400~/person(Save up to 54%)
[Address] 1-1-12, Minamisaiwai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa 220-0005
[Access] 1 minute walk from Yokohama Station (West exit)on the JR, Tokyu Toyoko Line, Keikyu Line, Sagami Railway Line, Shiei-ChikatetsuMunicipal Subway Line.

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Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum

Do you know the Japanese national food "Raumen"? Which Raumen do you prefer?

In the museum, a retrospective town of Showa 33(45 years ago) has been reproduced. Selected Ramen restaurants are lined up. There is an exhibition on the history and culture of Ramen.

[Hours of Operation] 11:00~23:00(Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10:30. Enter by 22:00.) Closed: Year end/New Year holidays
[Access] A 5-minute walk from the Shin-Yokohama Station (JR or Yokohama City Subway)

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Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise

Japan's Largest Collection of Marine Life!

It is located at the tip of Yokohama Bay and is a new generation style amusement park!! It is the home of one of the top aquariums in Japan. There is Japan's first surf coaster that swings out over the ocean, an exhilarating vertical fall amusement ride, BLUE FALL which is celebrating its first anniversary. We have specialty shops, great restaurants, a marina and a hotel located among wide grass and flower gardens. There are so many things to do and experience; you will not be satisfied with just one visit. Being at our Sea Paradise creates an ideal setting where man and sea can communicate together.

[Park Hours] Weekdays: 10:00-18:00/Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 9:00-20:00 (depending on the season)
[Access] 2-minute walk from the Hakkeijima Station (Seaside Line, connecting between Kanazawa Hakkei of the Keihin Kyuko Line and Shin-sugita Station of JR)

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Yokohama Bayside Marina Shops & Restaurants, Outlet Park

You can get goods of popular brands at discount rates of 30 to 70 % off!!

You can obtain goods of popular brands at discount rates of 30 to 70 % off here! They range from goods of fashion brands to those of outdoor sports, shoes, kids and interior varieties. Outlet Park face with the boundless sky and the biggest Marina in the orient. This is the largest marina in Japan accommodating 1,500 boats and sailboats. It is fun just watching sail boats sailing in Tokyo Bay and beyond. While you enjoy shopping at reasonable prices obtainable only at the outlets, you will be able to relax at restaurants and cafes facing the open and expansive Marina biggest in the orient, admiring the boundless sky and sea!

[Opening Hours] Outlet:10:00-20:00(Depending on the store)/No fixed holidays, Marina:9:00~17:00(Depending on the store)/Closed on Tuesdays
[Access] 5 min. walk from Torihama Sta. on the Seaside Line. Approx.1.5 km via the National Road 357 from the Sugita IC of the Metropolitan Expressway Wangan Line; approx. 1.5 km via the National Road 357 from the Namiki IC of the Yokohama Yokosuka Road.

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Chinatown

The Biggest Chinatowm in Asia!!

Living up to its boast of being one of the biggest Chinatowns in the world, more than 500 restaurants and groceries etc. throng here. A unique look of the stores lining the streets, colored yellow and red, engenders another exotic atmosphere to Yokohama.

[Access] 0 min. walk from Motomachi-Chukagai Sta.(Minatomirai Line),A 5-minute walk from the Ishikawa-cho Station (JR)

Reporter's experience

Out of all the many Chinatowns I have been to in the world, this by far is the most unique one that I have been to. I come from the City of Toronto, Canada our Chinatown can not even come close to what I was able to see. About 10 minutes from Nissan Stadium, and a short walk from JR Ishikawa Cho Station and Motomachi-chukagai Station. A definite must see for any Asian Culture enthusiast. Filled with shops, and a variety of Chinese gifts big and small, I could not believe also how CHEAP!! everything was. Easily a place to spend the day, and take in the sights and sounds without even having to buy a plane ticket to Beijing.

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Rose Hotel

Hotel Features

The hotel offers Asian charm with modern, comfortable, and luxurious accommodations.Good selection of shopping area is within the immediate vicinity.

[Hotel Details] http://web.travel.rakuten.co.jp/portal/my/info_page_e.Eng?f_no=18148
[Room rate] Twin Single Use JPY11,000~/person(Save up to 56%), Standard Twin Room JPY6,000~/person(Save up to 60%), Superior King Bed Room JPY7,000~/person(Save up to 59%)
[Address] 77 Yamashitacho, Naka-Ku, Yokohama, 231-0023 Japan
[Access] 2min. walk from Motomachi-chukagai Station on the Minatomilai Line./10 min. walk from JR Ishikawa-cho on the Keihin Tohoku Line.

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