Yokohama Then and Now Walking Tour of the Port Opening Era

Yokohama , Japan

Yokohama Then and Now Walking Tour of the Port Opening Era

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About this experience

・Trace the legacy of Yokohama’s port-opening through real historical sites
・Explore parts of the city often missed by standard sightseeing tours
・Step back in time to the 1860s with preserved Western homes and cemeteries
・Learn fun facts about Japan’s "firsts"—from bread and beer to newspapers
・Enjoy insightful commentary from a knowledgeable local guide
・Experience the roots of modern Yokohama through an enriching cultural walk

This walking tour explores Yokohama’s historic Yamate district—known as “The Bluff”—where Western residents settled after the port opened in the 1860s. Their influence shaped the city’s early modernization.

You’ll visit Harbor View Park, the Yokohama Foreign General Cemetery, and preserved Western-style homes like Ehrismann Residence and Bluff No.18.
The tour ends with a stroll through Motomachi Shopping Street, home to long-standing shops like Uchikipan, a 150-year-old bakery.

Available options

Yokohama Then and Now Walking Tour of the Port Opening Era

What's included

English guide

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy panoramic views of Yokohama Port from this scenic park, once home to the British Consulate. The rose garden reflects the city’s Western heritage.

A historic cemetery with over 3,000 gravestones. It honors the memory of foreign residents who contributed to Japan’s modernization after the port opened. (Exterior Only)

A charming street lined with preserved Western houses such as Berrick Hall, Ehrismann Residence, and the Catholic Yamate Church—remnants of the foreign settlement era.

Japan’s first Western-style park. Once a vibrant social hub for foreign residents, with tennis courts and clubhouses.

Explore elegant Western mansions that once housed diplomats. The surrounding garden showcases European landscaping and architecture.

This stylish historic street is home to Japan’s oldest bakery and other Western-inspired shops dating back to the Meiji era.Relax at a Western-style café to reflect on the tour and chat with your guide over coffee or tea.

What's not included

Drinks and snacks are not included. Please order and pay for what you like on your own.

Available languages

Guide guide

KO CMN JA YUE EN FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting just outside Motomachi-Chukagai Station, Exit 5.

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