4 Great Ways to Experience Yokohama’s Stunning Skyline

What's Hot

One of the advantages of a coastal city like Yokohama is that every breathtaking view can be doubled in the reflection on the water. There are countless ways to enjoy the city’s remarkable city views, but here are a few favorites, loved by tourists and locals alike.

From a Boat: Sea Bass

What better way to experience a port city like Yokohama than taking to its waters? The Sea Bass is a convenient sea bus that takes you to the city’s best coastal sightseeing spots, while showcasing the city from its best side — from the water. The boat’s leisurely pace is ideal for taking in the view without having to navigate through crowds. It runs regularly between piers at Yokohama Station’s East Exit and Yamashita Park, with stops at Minato Mirai 21 and Yokohama Red Brick
Warehouse along the way*. Board one of the evening runs to catch the colorful Yokohama Cosmoworld, Yokohama Landmark Tower and Bay Bridge after dark as they light up the night sky.
If you’re planning on hopping on and off throughout the day, make sure to grab the Day Pass. It offers a significant discount and can be bought at any of the Sea Bass’s four embarkation piers. For up-to-date pricing information, check the Yokohama Cruising website.

*Note: Some routes run directly between the East Exit of Yokohama Station Pier and Yamashita Park Pier.

From a Park: Harbor View Park (Minato-no-Mieru Oka Koen)

Harbor View Park sits at the top of Yamate Hill and offers a commanding view of the city and especially — as the name suggests — the harbor. The park opened to the public in 1962 and used to house both British Army barracks and the British Consulate. Because of its spacious area, there is plenty to experience besides the view. The Sunken Flower Bed hosts a cornucopia of rich colors in most seasons, while the English Rose Garden displays an impressive selection of roses in spring and autumn. The former British Consulate building, now known as British House, remains on site and is free to enter for those who want to take a closer look.
The park’s namesake, the harbor view, is impressive at any time and in any season. However, those wanting the best experience should stop by just before sunset to catch the sun’s rays lingering over Yokohama Marine Tower and Bay Bridge, followed by their glittering lights against a night sky backdrop.

From a Tower: Yokohama Port Symbol Tower

Yokohama Port Symbol Tower is one of the city’s best kept secrets. It’s comparatively far from our other recommended locations, but it also offers one of the greatest rewards — a unique perspective on Yokohama’s port life. Climb to the top of the 58.5-meter-high white tower (be warned: there is no elevator inside the tower building) to the observatory deck and take in a 360-degree view of Yokohama’s industrial harbor and the ocean beyond. The tower’s observatory deck and the observatory lounge — a semi-circular platform around the tower — have limited opening hours depending on the season so be sure to confirm ahead of time if you want to take sunset shots.
Yokohama Port Symbol Tower is surrounded by a great expanse of green and has several picnic benches dotted around the area, making it an excellent spot to spend a quiet afternoon. The space is often used for seasonal events, flea markets and other local happenings — check the tower website in advance to see what’s going on.
Note: Those traveling by public transport should make sure to check timetables or Google maps carefully as buses don’t run frequently.

From a Cafe: ANNIVERSAIRE Café

Looking to celebrate a special occasion like an anniversary or birthday, or simply want to take in your view of Yokohama coupled with a touch of sophistication? ANNIVERSAIRE Café Minato Mirai Yokohama location might be your best bet. The café — attached to a wedding hall — is in the thick of it. It’s a short walk from Yokohama Cosmoworld and offers one of the best close-up views of Yokohama’s skyline in the city. The terrace offers the option of al fresco dining in almost any weather, but the floor-to-ceiling windows allow unobstructed views from indoors as well. Enjoy a range of seasonal dishes for lunch or dinner and an extensive selection of mouthwatering desserts and sweets most of the day. There is also an extensive cocktail menu with many limited period options also.

Note: Business hours and services may differ due to the impact of Covid-19

For more of Yokohama’s amazing views, check out Top 5 Night Views in Yokohama and our Architectural Guide to the Yokohama Skyline.