Welcome to Yokohama, Japan’s second-largest city and one of its most historically significant! It is a treasure trove of attractions linked to the past and here are some of the top sites to visit to find out more about its rich history.
Red Brick Warehouse
The Red Brick Warehouse, located in the waterfront area, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Located close to Oakwood Suites Yokohama, this historic building was originally constructed in 1913 as a warehouse and has since been renovated into a shopping and cultural centre with a space for exhibitions too. Today, visitors can enjoy a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options in this beautifully restored brick building.
Yokohama Customs
Completed in 1934, the Yokohama Customs building served as the city’s main customs house for many years and can be easily reached from Minato Mirai area-based serviced apartments. Yokohama sightseeing tours should include a visit to this structure known as the “Queen’s Tower”; apart from a distinctive tower at its centre, it also has a mosque-style dome that’s green. You will find a customs museum on the first floor with information about Yokohama Port and customs procedures.
Yokohama Specie Bank
The Yokohama Specie Bank, located in the city’s Kannai area, was once one of Japan’s most important banks. The building, designed by Tsumaki Yorinaka, was completed in 1904 and is an excellent example of Western-style architecture with neo-baroque design. It houses the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Cultural History which showcases a range of exhibits and offers insights into the city’s history.
Yamate Museum
The Yamate Museum, located in the city’s Yamate area, is housed in a Western-style building that was built in 1909. Interestingly, it is Yokohama City’s only remaining wooden Western house and is found at the Yamate Jubankan restaurant. On a visit to this museum, you will find a range of artefacts that date to when the city’s foreign settlement was established, while you can gain insights into life back then as well.
