Private Yokohama Tour - History, Culture and Food

Yokohama , Japan

Private Yokohama Tour - History, Culture and Food

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About this experience

Yokohama is an incredible waterside port city steeped in history and packed with fun attractions. Only 45 minutes from Tokyo a day trip to Yokohama is a must-do. This Yokohama tour is a carefully curated mix of history, culture and food.

Over the course of this full-day tour, you will explore Yokohama through the eyes of the immigrants who arrived into Japan, through the port in the mid-1800s.

This private tour includes a boat ride around the harbour, a visit to the historic Hikawa Maru (early Japanese ocean liner) and a traditional Chinese restaurant in Chinatown.

In addition, you will explore Yamate Hill, a residential district where the early western settlers lived, and Minato Mirai; the waterfront district home to the Red Brick Warehouse, a boutique shopping outlet where we can pick up some unique souvenirs.

Available options

7.5 hrs tour: hotel meet up

7.5 hrs tour with hotel pickup<br/>Pickup included

6.5 hrs tour: Yokohama meet up

Meet at Yokohama Station

What's included

Private tour - no one else will join

All Fees and Taxes

Boat ride around the harbour

Lunch in Chinatown

Professional tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Start your tour at the easily accessible Motomachi Chukagai Station. A short walk to Yamashita Park.

See the Hikawa Maru, a Japanese ocean liner from the early 1900s with a fascinating history. Discover more about her and her passengers from your well-informed tour guide.

Stroll up to Yamate Hill, a residential area which developed shortly after the Port opened in 1859. Here we visit the Spanish villas and Victorian residences that the early Western settlers lived in

You will find out who lived here and why they came to Yokohama.

From Yamate Hill it is a short walk down to Chinatown; home to the early Chinese settlers. Yokohama's Chinatown is the largest in Japan and one of the biggest in the world.

Visit a 150-year-old temple that has served as the main grounds of worship for the Chinese settlers. Stopping for lunch we will enjoy a feast in a traditional Chinese restaurant, and later, whilst wandering the narrow laneways, we will indulge in fried sesame balls for dessert.

From Chinatown we travel to Minato Mirai, a 10-minute train ride away see the more modern side of Yokohama.

In Minato Mirai, we explore the modern development of Yokohama.

Visit the Red Brick Warehouse. Originally a customs house that served from 1911-1989, but now converted into a boutique shopping outlet. It’s a great place to pick up some unique Yokohama souvenirs.

Board the Sea Bass, a glass-roofed sightseeing boat, for a ride through Yokohama Bay up to Yokohama Station. A wonderful way to see the cityscape!

What's not included

Prices do not include the costs of transport. You will need to buy a subway pass on the day.

Any additional food not included at the lunch stop.

Any additional drinks not included at lunch.

Gratuities are not included and are optional.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

If you cancel more than one week (more than 168 hours) in advance we will give you a full refund (excluding the booking service fee). If you cancel between 7 days and 2 days (between 167 and 48 hours before) we will give you a 50% refund (excluding any service charge). If you cancel less than 48 hours there is no refund. There are no refunds if you do not turn up for the tour or choose to leave the tour early.

This tour requires you to be physically fit. You will be walking about 10 km over the course of the day. We will be going at a slow pace across mostly flat land but you do need to be in good health and be able to walk up and down stairs.

Meeting point

If you have booked a hotel pick-up we will meet you in your hotel lobby. If we are meeting you in Yokohama, we will meet you at Exit 1 (street level) of Motomachi Chukagai Station.
Exact details provided on booking.

About Yokohama

Yokohama is Japan's second-largest city and a major port city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, it offers a blend of modern attractions and historic sites, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Minato Mirai 21

Minato Mirai 21 is a futuristic waterfront area with modern architecture, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a symbol of Yokohama's development and innovation.

Architecture/Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Yokohama Chinatown

Yokohama Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, offering a vibrant mix of Chinese culture, cuisine, and shops. It's a must-visit for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Cultural Half day Free to explore, food costs vary

Sankeien Garden

Sankeien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden with beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and seasonal flowers. It offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥700

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shumai

A popular Chinese-style dumpling filled with pork and shrimp, often served with a sweet and spicy sauce.

Dumpling Contains pork and shrimp

Iekeukhan

A grilled chicken skewer with a sweet and savory glaze, originating from Yokohama's Chinatown.

Street food Contains chicken

Sashimi

Fresh raw fish slices, often served with soy sauce and wasabi. Yokohama's proximity to the sea ensures high-quality sashimi.

Seafood Contains raw fish

Popular Activities

Hiking in Sankeien Garden Cruising on Lake Ashi in Hakone Exploring the caves of Enoshima Onsen bathing in Hakone Strolling through Yamashita Park Visiting the Yokohama Museum of Art Exploring Yokohama Chinatown Visiting the Sankeien Garden

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Yokohama is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and pickpocketing is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight in crowded areas
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Haneda Airport • 25 km from city center
Narita Airport • 100 km from city center

By train

Yokohama Station, Sakuragicho Station

By bus

Yokohama Station Bus Terminal, Bashamichi Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient and covers most of the city. It is user-friendly with signs in English.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Minato Mirai Yamashita Park Kannai

Day trips

Kamakura

30 km from Yokohama • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a historic town known for its temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha. It's a popular day trip from Yokohama, offering a mix of history and natural beauty.

Hakone

60 km from Yokohama • Full day

Hakone is a scenic hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), views of Mount Fuji, and historic sites. It's a great escape from the city for a day of relaxation and nature.

Enoshima

30 km from Yokohama • Half day

Enoshima is a small island known for its scenic views, shrines, and caves. It's a popular spot for a relaxing day trip, offering a mix of nature and culture.

Festivals

Yokohama Hakke Festival • April 29th (Showa Day) Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Festival • November (specific dates vary) Yokohama Chinatown Festival • Spring and Autumn (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Use an IC card like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transportation
Visit the Yokohama Tourist Information Center for maps, brochures, and helpful staff
Try local specialties like shumai, iekeukhan, and sashimi for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the city's historic sites, such as the Red Brick Warehouse and Sankeien Garden, for a glimpse into Yokohama's past
Experience the vibrant nightlife in Noge district or the lively atmosphere of Chinatown