Yokohama with Kids: Best Things to Do as a Family (2025)

Colorful wall of instant noodles at Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama, Japan, popular family attraction

Welcome to the Yokohama with Kids Guide, your quick resource for discovering the best things to do and hotel options in Yokohama as a family. From waterfront parks and panoramic Ferris wheel rides to creative museums and cultural streets, this vibrant port city offers endless Yokohama attractions, places to visit, and things to see that keep both kids and parents entertained. Whether your family loves hands-on noodle experiments, seaside picnics, or city lights reflecting on the bay, Yokohama blends play, discovery, and relaxation into one unforgettable family adventure.

As you plan your family trip to Yokohama, this guide is the perfect place to start! For everything from where to stay to family-friendly food spots and travel logistics, check out our Yokohama Family Travel Guide. You can then visit the Yokohama with Kids Hub to find all our local guides, adventure stories, and age-specific tips in one easy place. Want to keep exploring? See our Ultimate Guide to Family Attractions in Japan with Kids for top castles, shrines, and theme parks across the country. Families visiting the Tokyo Bay area can easily combine their trip with Tokyo with Kids for big-city adventures or Kamakura with Kids for temples, beaches, and a taste of Japan’s coastal charm.

Best Things to Do in Yokohama with Kids

Wondering which Yokohama attractions are best for your family? Here’s a quick guide to the top spots by age group to help you plan your perfect adventure, from toddler-friendly play zones to cultural adventures for older kids. If you’re exploring multiple attractions, check out the Minato Burari Ticket for unlimited Yokohama subway and bus rides, or the Tokyu Line 1-Day Pass for easy travel between Tokyo and Yokohama.

Age Group

Best Picks

Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 2–4)

Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum, Nogeyama Zoological Gardens, Yamashita Park, Kodomonokuni

Young Kids (Ages 5–8)

Cup Noodles Museum, Yokohama Cosmo World, Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN Sakuragicho Station

Tweens/Teens (Ages 9+)

Zoorasia, Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, Yokohama Chinatown, Sankeien Garden, Yokohama Marine Tower, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

All Ages

Yokohama Cosmo World, Yamashita Park, Zoorasia, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise

1. Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama

  • Why It’s Awesome: Get ready to design, create, and eat your very own instant noodle! The Cup Noodles Museum is one of Yokohama’s most interactive attractions, where kids can step into the world of ramen inventor Momofuku Ando. Families can decorate their own cup, choose ingredients, and watch it get sealed before their eyes. With colorful exhibits, fun noodle-making workshops, and a creative “Noodles Bazaar” food court, it’s an unforgettable (and delicious) experience for kids and adults alike.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5–10
  • Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with elevators and wide walkways; lockers and rest areas available
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Design the wildest instant noodle flavor combo you can think of! Can you make a cup so strange that even your parents hesitate to taste it?

2. Yokohama Cosmo World

  • Why It’s Awesome: Located in the heart of Minato Mirai, Yokohama Cosmo World is a seaside amusement park famous for its giant Ferris wheel, the Cosmo Clock 21, once the world’s largest! Families can enjoy rides suited for all ages, from gentle carousels and bumper cars to roller coasters that weave through the skyline. At night, the entire park glows with dazzling lights reflecting on the water, creating a magical city view your kids will never forget.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5–12
  • Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon through evening for cooler weather and night lights
  • Cost: ¥ (rides priced individually)
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with ramps and wide paths; rest areas and nearby cafés make it easy for families to take breaks
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Ride the giant Ferris wheel and see if you can spot the Cup Noodles Museum from the top!
Luca & Nico walking toward Yokohama Cosmo World with the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel and roller coaster in view under a clear blue sky

3. Zoorasia

  • Why It’s Awesome: Zoorasia is one of Japan’s largest and most beautifully designed zoos, known for its themed eco-zones that replicate habitats from around the world. Families can walk through Asian jungles, African savannas, and even an Arctic forest, spotting elephants, lions, and polar bears along the way. With spacious paths, lush greenery, and interactive exhibits, it feels more like a wildlife adventure park than a traditional zoo.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 6+
  • Duration: 3–4 hours (half day recommended)
  • Best Time to Visit: Morning to midday when animals are most active and crowds are lighter
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly with wide paved paths, rest areas, and picnic spots; some mild slopes in outdoor zones
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Pick your favorite animal and invent a wild superpower for it, what could a cheetah, owl, or camel do if it joined your superhero team?

4. Nogeyama Zoological Gardens

  • Why It’s Awesome: A local favorite and one of Japan’s few free zoos, Nogeyama Zoological Gardens is perfect for a short, relaxed family visit. Despite its compact size, it’s home to lions, red pandas, and playful monkeys, plus a small petting area where children can meet guinea pigs and rabbits up close. The laid-back atmosphere and shaded paths make it ideal for younger kids to explore at their own pace.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 2–6
  • Duration: 1–2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon when animals are most active
  • Cost: Free
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with smooth paths, benches, and shaded rest zones throughout
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to find the red panda before your grown-ups do, bonus points if you can spot what snack it’s nibbling on!

5. Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum

  • Why It’s Awesome: A dream come true for little ones, this colorful museum brings the world of Japan’s beloved superhero, Anpanman, to life. Kids can explore themed play zones, dance with characters, and enjoy gentle shows filled with music and laughter. From bakeries selling Anpanman-shaped treats to photo spots and toy shops, it’s a full day of fun designed especially for preschoolers.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 2–6
  • Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid weekend crowds
  • Cost: ¥¥
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with elevators, rest areas, and a nursing room available
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Spot as many Anpanman characters as you can!
Luca and Nico standing beneath the colorful Choyo-mon gate in Yokohama Chinatown, exploring Japan’s largest Chinatown as a family-friendly adventure.

6. Yokohama Chinatown

  • Why It’s Awesome: One of the largest Chinatowns in the world, Yokohama Chinatown is a feast for the senses, filled with colorful gates, lanterns, and delicious food stalls. Families can wander through lively streets sampling dumplings, steamed buns, and sweet sesame treats, while older kids will love exploring temples and shops selling quirky souvenirs. It’s a great mix of culture, food, and fun, all in one vibrant neighborhood.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 7+
  • Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening for illuminated streets and dinner time energy
  • Cost: Free
  • Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly but can get crowded; best to use a lightweight stroller or carrier
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try at least one new snack you’ve never tasted before, who’s brave enough to sample the most unusual food?

7. Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise

  • Why It’s Awesome: Set on its own island, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is a massive marine theme park that combines an aquarium, amusement rides, and seaside fun all in one. Families can walk through underwater tunnels, watch dolphin and penguin shows, and even experience thrilling rides with ocean views. It’s one of Yokohama’s most popular family attractions, offering something for every age and energy level.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5+
  • Duration: Half day to full day
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in spring or autumn for pleasant weather and smaller crowds
  • Cost: ¥¥
  • Accessibility: Stroller-friendly with ramps, elevators, rest areas, and family facilities throughout the park
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: During the dolphin show, try to spot which dolphin jumps the highest, and decide what its “superhero name” should be!

8. Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum

  • Why It’s Awesome: More than just a museum, this ramen paradise recreates a retro 1950s Tokyo streetscape filled with tiny ramen shops from across Japan. Families can taste regional noodle styles, learn about ramen’s history, and even watch chefs in action. Older kids and parents alike will love sampling small bowls from different regions and comparing flavors, it’s a cultural and culinary adventure rolled into one delicious stop.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 8+
  • Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Lunchtime or early afternoon to avoid dinner rush crowds
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Stroller-friendly but narrow in places; best to visit with foldable strollers or carriers
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Taste multiple different ramen styles and decide which one deserves the title of “Ultimate Noodle Champion!”
Luca and Nico exploring a rocket engine exhibit at the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum in Yokohama, a hands-on science and technology museum for kids.

9. Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum

  • Why It’s Awesome: A hands-on science and technology museum perfect for curious young minds, the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum invites kids to explore space, deep-sea exploration, and renewable energy through interactive exhibits. Families can climb into simulators, pilot virtual submarines, and experience what it’s like to work in high-tech industries, all in a fun, child-friendly way.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5–12
  • Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late morning or early afternoon; ideal for rainy or hot days
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with wide walkways, elevators, and rest zones
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try one of the simulators and see if you can “launch a rocket” or “dive to the ocean floor” without crashing!

10. Kodomonokuni (Children’s Land)

  • Why It’s Awesome: True to its name, Kodomonokuni, meaning “Children’s Land”, is a massive outdoor park designed entirely for kids. Families can meet farm animals, ride pedal boats, explore huge playgrounds, and enjoy wide-open picnic lawns. Seasonal flower gardens, mini trains, and splash zones make it a perfect all-day outing surrounded by nature.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 2–10
  • Duration: Half day to full day
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and colorful scenery
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly with paved walkways, shaded rest areas, and baby-care facilities
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Find the biggest slide in the park and race your family to the bottom, no shortcuts allowed!

11. Yamashita Park

  • Why It’s Awesome: One of Yokohama’s most scenic seaside spots, Yamashita Park stretches along the waterfront with open lawns, flower gardens, and views of the bay. It’s perfect for picnics, kite flying, and watching ships come and go. Street performers and ice cream stands add a festive touch, making it an easy, relaxing break for families exploring nearby Chinatown or the Marine Tower.
  • Age Recommendations: All ages
  • Duration: 1–2 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for cooler weather and sunset views over the harbor
  • Cost: Free
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with wide paths, benches, and shaded rest areas
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Spot the Hikawa Maru ship anchored along the park, how many flags can you count flying from its deck?
Luca & Nico walking through Yamashita Park in Yokohama on a sunny day, surrounded by green lawns, trees, and flowers with views of the bay in the distance.

12. Sankeien Garden

  • Why It’s Awesome: A peaceful escape from the city, Sankeien Garden is a sprawling traditional Japanese garden filled with ponds, bridges, and historic teahouses. Families can stroll along gentle paths, spot koi fish, and enjoy the changing scenery through each season, cherry blossoms in spring, lush greens in summer, and fiery maple leaves in autumn. It’s a calm and beautiful way to introduce children to Japan’s natural and cultural heritage.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 8+
  • Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring or autumn for the most vibrant colors
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly with paved walkways; some older buildings have steps or gravel paths
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Find the biggest koi fish in the pond and give it a funny name!

13. Yokohama Marine Tower

  • Why It’s Awesome: Standing tall near Yamashita Park, the newly renovated Yokohama Marine Tower offers sweeping views of the harbor, city skyline, and on clear days, even Mount Fuji. Families can ride the glass elevator to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views, then relax at the cafés and shops on the ground floor. It’s a short, exciting stop that pairs perfectly with a walk along the waterfront.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 6+
  • Duration: 45–90 minutes
  • Best Time to Visit: Sunset or early evening for glowing city lights
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with elevators and barrier-free access to observation decks
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Count how many boats you can spot moving through the bay, who finds the biggest one?

14. YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN

  • Why It’s Awesome: The YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN is Japan’s first urban cable car, gliding over the waterfront between Sakuragicho Station and Unga Park in Minato Mirai. The short but scenic ride gives families a bird’s-eye view of the bay, the Ferris wheel, and the sparkling city skyline below. It’s a fun, easy thrill that connects major attractions like Cosmo World and the Red Brick Warehouse while giving kids a whole new perspective of the city.
  • Age Recommendations: All ages
  • Duration: 10–15 minutes (one way)
  • Best Time to Visit: Early evening to catch the city lights and sunset reflections
  • Cost: ¥
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with barrier-free boarding and wide gondola doors
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to spot three famous Yokohama landmarks during your ride, how many can you name before landing?

15. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

  • Why It’s Awesome: A symbol of Yokohama’s historic port, the Red Brick Warehouse blends old-world architecture with a modern creative twist. Families can stroll through boutique shops, seasonal markets, and cultural events throughout the year, from winter skating rinks to summer food festivals. The open plaza by the waterfront is perfect for kids to run around while parents relax and take in the harbor views.
  • Age Recommendations: Best for ages 7+
  • Duration: 1.5–3 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening for live music, lights, and cooler weather
  • Cost: Free
  • Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with ramps, elevators, and wide open areas
  • Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Find the coolest souvenir in the shops, who can spot something made from real brick first?
The large YOKOHAMA sign at Yamashita Park, symbolizing the start of a family-friendly adventure in the city

Why Yokohama is Great for Families with Kids

  • A vibrant coastal city that combines ocean views, amusement parks, and hands-on museums, making it one of Japan’s most exciting destinations for families.
  • Easy to explore on foot or by train, with attractions like the Cup Noodles Museum, Cosmo World, and Anpanman Museum all within the scenic Minato Mirai area.
  • A perfect balance of play and culture, from Chinatown’s colorful streets and the Ramen Museum’s tasty adventures to peaceful escapes like Sankeien Garden and Yamashita Park.
  • Family-friendly dining everywhere, with plenty of casual seaside cafés, international restaurants, and street stalls serving dumplings, noodles, and soft-serve by the bay.

For year-round planning, explore our Japan Seasonal Guides for Families, including detailed resources for spring, summer, autumn, winter, and our full Best Time to Visit Japan with Kids guide.

How to Get to Yokohama with Kids

  • By Train: Yokohama is easily reached from Tokyo in about 30 minutes via the JR Tokaido Line, Yokosuka Line, or Tokyu Toyoko Line, which connects directly to Minato Mirai.
  • By Plane: From Haneda Airport, families can reach Yokohama in about 30–40 minutes by train or limousine bus. Narita Airport is also connected, taking around 90 minutes by direct bus or express train.
  • By Bus: Intercity and airport buses conveniently link Yokohama with Tokyo, Haneda, Narita, and nearby cities like Kamakura and Kawasaki, offering a comfortable and budget-friendly option for families traveling with luggage or strollers.

If your trip includes bullet trains, don’t miss our Shinkansen With Kids guide for tips on seats, luggage, and navigating stations with little travelers. Parents comparing rail options can also see our Japan Rail Pass Guide to understand when the pass is worth it for families. And if you want stress-free station transfers, our Japan Luggage Delivery Guide explains how to send suitcases ahead so your family can travel light and move easily between cities.

Family-Friendly Hotels in & Near Yokohama

Choosing the right base can make all the difference when exploring Japan’s lesser-known towns and rural regions. Our Best Family Hotels in Japan guide highlights kid-friendly stays across every part of the country, from cozy ryokan and hot spring retreats to modern hotels with spacious family rooms and easy transport access. If you’re comparing options in larger cities before or after your visit, you can also explore our dedicated hotel guides for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, Kobe, and Nagasaki.

If you’re mapping out your wider Japan route, start with our Japan 14-Day Family Itinerary for a balanced mix of major cities, culture, and kid-friendly highlights. Families comparing trip lengths often find it helpful to look at multiple options, including classic 7-day and 10-day Japan itineraries that show how to pace Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with kids.

For even more support planning your trip, our Japan Family-Friendly Travel Hub brings together every city guide, attraction, and resource in one place, while our Planning a Family Trip to Japan and Japan Budget Family Travel Tips guides help parents navigate budgets, routes, and practical details.

FAQs About Visiting Yokohama with Kids

Here are quick answers to common questions families ask when exploring Yokohama with kids, from stroller access and rainy-day attractions to family passes, transportation, and free things to do around the bay.

Q: Is Yokohama good for babies and toddlers?

A: Yes, Yokohama is great for babies and toddlers thanks to its spacious parks, stroller-friendly attractions, and gentle activities. Little ones love places like the Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum, Nogeyama Zoological Gardens, and Yamashita Park for open-air play. Many hotels offer family amenities, and key areas like Minato Mirai and Sakuragicho have smooth paths, elevators, and easy transit access, making sightseeing simple even with young travelers.

Q: What are the best indoor activities in Yokohama with kids when it rains?

A: On rainy days, Yokohama offers plenty of indoor attractions that keep families entertained. Top picks include the Cup Noodles Museum for hands-on fun, the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum for science lovers, and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum for food and culture in one stop. Younger kids can play at the Anpanman Museum, while teens enjoy exploring Yokohama World Porters or the Red Brick Warehouse’s indoor markets and seasonal events.

Q: How many days should you spend in Yokohama with kids?

A: Families should plan to spend at least 1–2 full days in Yokohama with kids to enjoy its main attractions without rushing. One day can cover highlights like Minato Mirai, Cosmo World, and Cup Noodles Museum, while a second day allows for visits to Zoorasia, Sankeien Garden, or Yokohama Chinatown. If you’re visiting from Tokyo, it’s easy to experience the city as a day trip, but staying overnight lets families enjoy the harbor lights and a slower pace.

Q: What is the best neighborhood in Yokohama to stay with kids?

A: The best neighborhood in Yokohama for families is Minato Mirai, thanks to its central location, family-friendly hotels, and walkable access to top attractions like Cosmo World, Cup Noodles Museum, and the Red Brick Warehouse. Sakuragicho is also a great option for easy train connections, while Motomachi-Chukagai offers cultural charm near Yokohama Chinatown and the waterfront. All areas feature parks, shopping, and dining suitable for kids.

Q: What public transport passes or tickets should families use in Yokohama?

A: Families exploring Yokohama with kids can save money and time using local travel passes. The Minato Burari Ticket offers unlimited subway and bus rides around central Yokohama for one day, perfect for visiting Chinatown, Sankeien Garden, and Minato Mirai. For families coming from Tokyo, the Tokyu Line 1-Day Pass covers round-trip travel plus unlimited rides on Tokyu and Minatomirai lines, ideal for a full day of sightseeing.

Q: Are there free things to do in Yokohama with children?

A: Yes, there are many free things to do in Yokohama with kids that families love. Visit Nogeyama Zoological Gardens, a compact zoo with red pandas and lions, or enjoy a seaside stroll through Yamashita Park and the nearby Red Brick Warehouse plaza. Families can also explore Sankeien Garden’s outer grounds or watch the sunset from the Osanbashi Pier observation deck, all free, family-friendly experiences perfect for a relaxed day in the city.

Q: Is food in Yokohama kid-friendly and easy for picky eaters?

A: Absolutely, Yokohama is very kid-friendly when it comes to food. Families can enjoy familiar dishes like ramen, gyoza, and curry rice, while adventurous eaters can explore the flavors of Yokohama Chinatown, Japan’s largest Chinese food district. Many restaurants offer high chairs, kids’ menus, and casual seating, making mealtimes easy for families traveling with children. Don’t miss trying soft-serve ice cream by the bay!

Q: Can you visit Yokohama from Tokyo in one day with kids?

A: Yes, Yokohama is one of the best day trips from Tokyo for families with kids. It takes only about 30 minutes by train, and you can easily explore major attractions like Cup Noodles Museum, Cosmo World, and Yamashita Park in a single day. For a slower pace, stay overnight to enjoy evening views of Minato Mirai and the illuminated Ferris wheel, a perfect end to a family adventure.

Q: What day trips from Yokohama are good for families with kids?

A: Families based in Yokohama with kids have plenty of fun day trip options nearby. Head to Kamakura to see the Great Buddha and enjoy the beach, or visit Enoshima Island for aquariums and seaside views. For nature and animals, take a short train ride to Zoorasia or Kodomonokuni Children’s Land, both within Yokohama.

Q: What is the best season to visit Yokohama with kids?

A: The best season to visit Yokohama with kids is spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and outdoor attractions like Yamashita Park and Sankeien Garden are at their most beautiful. Spring brings cherry blossoms along the waterfront, while autumn offers colorful leaves and pleasant seaside walks. Summer is lively but hot, best for water play and evening festivals, and winter features sparkling light displays across Minato Mirai, a magical time for families who love holiday fun.

Q: What are the best festivals or seasonal events in Yokohama for families?

A: Yokohama hosts exciting family-friendly festivals year-round. In summer, don’t miss the Yokohama Sparkling Twilight Fireworks and the playful Pikachu Outbreak event, which fills Minato Mirai with dancing Pikachu parades. Autumn brings the Oktoberfest at the Red Brick Warehouse, while winter lights up the city with the Yokohama Illuminations and Christmas Market. Families visiting in spring can enjoy the Yokohama Flower Garden Festival or the blooming cherry trees along Yamashita Park, perfect for picnics and family photos.

Q: How stroller-friendly is Yokohama for family travel?

A: Yokohama is very stroller-friendly, with smooth sidewalks, wide station platforms, and barrier-free access at most attractions. Areas like Minato Mirai, Sakuragicho, and Yamashita Park are easy to navigate, while places such as the Cup Noodles Museum and Cosmo World provide elevators and open layouts. For hilly spots like Sankeien Garden, a lightweight stroller or carrier works best, but overall, families find getting around Yokohama with kids convenient and stress-free.

Until Next Time…

Yokohama with kids is a city full of imagination, color, and connection, where every turn along the bay brings something new to discover. From creating noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum to riding the Cosmo World Ferris wheel and exploring the lantern-lit streets of Chinatown, Yokohama blends play, culture, and comfort in a way that few cities can. Whether your family comes for a day trip from Tokyo or stays to watch the harbor lights twinkle at night, this city always leaves room for one more adventure, and one more smile.

Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~

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