Yokohama Family Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat & Plan Your Visit with Kids

Welcome to the Yokohama Family Travel Guide, your complete resource for traveling to Yokohama with kids! Just outside Tokyo, this vibrant waterfront city is packed with kid-friendly museums, amusement parks, and hands-on food adventures. Inside, you’ll find tips on where to stay with kids, what to eat, and how to get around Yokohama with kids easily. From giant Ferris wheels and ramen-making to seaside strolls and science fun, this guide is your ticket to discovering Yokohama food for families and experiences that combine fun, learning, and discovery for every age.

Planning your trip to Yokohama? Download Luca & Nico’s Yokohama Adventure Club Pack, our printable activity book full of games, missions, and fun facts designed just for young explorers.

Planning a Family Trip to Yokohama with Kids

Yokohama is a year-round family destination, offering a mix of indoor attractions, waterfront parks, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or pairing it with Tokyo, our Tokyo Family Travel Guide covers the top things to see and do in Tokyo with kids, helping you plan an unforgettable adventure across both cities.

Best Time to Visit Yokohama for Families

• Spring (March–May): Spring is a fantastic time to visit Yokohama, with cherry blossoms blooming at Sankeien Garden and along the Ooka River. The mild temperatures make it perfect for exploring the waterfront, visiting amusement parks, or taking a bay cruise.
• Summer (June–August): Summers in Yokohama are hot and humid, but families can still enjoy indoor attractions like the Cup Noodles Museum, the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, and aquariums. There are also fireworks festivals in July and August, including the famous Kanagawa Shimbun Fireworks Festival.
• Autumn (September–November): With cooler weather and fewer crowds, autumn is a great time to visit Cosmo World amusement park, explore Minato Mirai, and take scenic walks along the waterfront. The Yokohama Oktoberfest in October is a fun seasonal event for parents as well.
• Winter (December–February): Winters in Yokohama are cold but rarely see snow, making it a good time to enjoy Christmas lights, ice skating rinks, and indoor museums. The Yokohama Minato Mirai Illumination lights up the waterfront with beautiful seasonal displays.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Spring and autumn are the best seasons for comfortable weather and outdoor activities, while winter is great for festive events and illuminations. If visiting in summer, plan for morning and evening activities to avoid the midday heat.

Things to Consider Before You Go

• Crowds: Yokohama is less crowded than Tokyo, but weekends and holidays can be busy, especially at Cosmo World, Cup Noodles Museum, and Yokohama Chinatown. To avoid large crowds, visit attractions early in the morning or on weekdays. Need help choosing the best time to visit Japan with kids? Our Japan Seasonal Family Guide breaks down what to expect, from cherry blossoms to winter illuminations, across all four seasons.
• Stroller Accessibility: Yokohama is highly stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks, elevators at train stations, and ramps at most attractions. However, some older areas like Sankeien Garden have gravel paths and steps, so a lightweight, foldable stroller is recommended.
• Kid-Friendly Facilities: Many shopping malls, train stations, and attractions in Yokohama have baby-changing rooms, nursing areas, and stroller rentals. Convenience stores and supermarkets sell diapers, baby food, and snacks.
• Cash vs. Cards: Credit cards and IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) are widely accepted, but small shops and some food stalls in Chinatown may still prefer cash. It’s always good to carry some yen for small purchases and public transportation fares.

How to Get to Yokohama with Kids

Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo and other major cities, making it a great day trip or extended stay destination. Whether you’re arriving by train, bus, or plane, there are plenty of convenient options for families traveling with kids.

Taking the Train to Yokohama

Yokohama is well-connected by Japan’s Shinkansen (bullet train), local JR trains, and private railway lines, making it the fastest and easiest way to reach the city.

From Tokyo:

• JR Tokaido Line – About 25 minutes from Tokyo Station.
• JR Keihin-Tohoku Line – About 35 minutes from Tokyo Station.
• Shinkansen (Bullet Train) – About 15 minutes from Tokyo Station to Shin-Yokohama Station.

From Shinjuku:

• Shonan-Shinjuku Line – About 35 minutes direct to Yokohama Station.

From Narita Airport:

• Narita Express (N’EX) – About 90 minutes to Yokohama Station.

From Haneda Airport:

• Keikyu Line – About 30 minutes to Yokohama Station.
• Limousine Bus – About 40 minutes to central Yokohama hotels.

Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) Tip: The Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Yokohama is covered by the JR Pass, but for shorter trips, local JR lines are more cost-effective.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If traveling with young kids, take the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line or Narita Express; they have spacious seats and more room for strollers compared to some commuter trains.

Traveling to Yokohama by Bus

For families on a budget, highway buses connect Yokohama with cities like Osaka, Nagoya, and Kyoto.

• From Tokyo Disney Resort: Direct limousine buses take about 50 minutes to Yokohama Station.
• From Osaka/Kyoto: Overnight buses take 6–8 hours, but may not be ideal for families with young children.

Best for: Families looking for a cheaper alternative to trains and those traveling from Tokyo Disney Resort or Haneda Airport.

Traveling to Yokohama by Ferry

For a unique way to reach Yokohama, families can take a ferry from Tokyo Bay to Yokohama Pier.

• Tokyo Bay Cruise to Yokohama: A fun option that takes about 1 hour, offering beautiful views of Tokyo and Yokohama’s skyline.
• Yokosuka Ferry: A scenic ride from nearby Yokosuka City to Yokohama, great for families visiting Yokosuka Naval Base or Sarushima Island.

Best for: Families who want a relaxing and scenic journey instead of a fast train ride.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If your kids love boats, consider taking a Yokohama Bay cruise after arriving; it’s a fun way to start your trip.

Getting Around Yokohama with Children

Yokohama is a compact and well-connected city, making it easy for families to explore using trains, buses, and scenic waterfront transport options. The city’s wide sidewalks, stroller-friendly streets, and convenient public transportation ensure smooth travel for families with young children, and if you’re planning to explore Japan by train, our Japan Train Travel Guide can help you navigate the system with confidence.

Best Train and Subway Options for Families

Yokohama has an extensive train network, including JR, private railway lines, and subway systems, allowing families to reach major attractions quickly.

• Minatomirai Line: Connects Yokohama Station to Minato Mirai, Motomachi, Chinatown, and Yamashita Park.
• JR Keihin-Tohoku Line: Useful for traveling between Shin-Yokohama, Yokohama Station, and Sakuragicho.
• Blue Line Subway: Provides access to Shin-Yokohama Station, Cup Noodles Museum, and other local attractions.

Best for: Families who want to move between attractions efficiently while avoiding traffic.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you plan to take multiple trains, consider getting a Yokohama Minatomirai Pass (¥500 for adults, ¥250 for kids for unlimited train rides on the Minatomirai Line).

Buses and Scenic Rides Around Yokohama

Yokohama has tourist-friendly bus routes that make it easy to visit attractions without multiple train transfers.

• Akai Kutsu Bus (Red Shoe Bus): A retro-style sightseeing bus that stops at Chinatown, Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park, and the Cup Noodles Museum.
• Bayside Blue Bus: A scenic waterfront bus connecting Yokohama Station with the Red Brick Warehouse and Osanbashi Pier.

Cost: ¥220 per ride or ¥600 for a one-day unlimited pass.

Best for: Families who prefer a scenic, relaxed way to explore without worrying about train transfers.

Stroller Tip: Buses allow strollers, but they may need to be folded during busy hours.

Yokohama Air Cabin

The Yokohama Air Cabin is Japan’s first urban ropeway, offering a short but scenic ride between Sakuragicho Station and the waterfront area of Minato Mirai.

• Duration: About 5 minutes each way.
• Best for: Families who want a fun and unique way to move between attractions.
• Cost: ¥1,000 for adults, ¥500 for children.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Ride the Air Cabin in the evening for a beautiful night view of the Minato Mirai skyline.

Walking & Biking in Yokohama

Yokohama is one of Japan’s most walkable cities, especially along the Minato Mirai waterfront, Chinatown, and Yamashita Park. Some areas, like Osanbashi Pier, also offer bike rental options.

• Best Walking Areas: Red Brick Warehouse, Motomachi Shopping Street, Yamashita Park.
• Best Bike Rentals: BayBike (city-wide rental stations with child seats available).

Best for: Families who enjoy relaxed waterfront strolls and exploring at their own pace.

Stroller Accessibility: Most sidewalks in Minato Mirai and the waterfront areas are stroller-friendly.

Are Taxis Easy to Use in Yokohama?

Taxis in Yokohama are widely available and useful for short trips, especially when traveling with young children or heavy shopping bags.

• Starting fare: Around ¥680–¥700.
• Best for: Getting from Yokohama Station to Minato Mirai or Chinatown.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If traveling with luggage or tired kids, taxis are a great option for quick transfers between attractions.

Where to Stay in Yokohama with Kids

Yokohama offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from modern waterfront hotels to budget-friendly stays near major attractions. Choosing the right area depends on whether your family prefers convenience, scenic views, or easy access to public transportation.

Best Family-Friendly Neighborhoods in Yokohama

• Minato Mirai (Best for Waterfront Views and Attractions)
  • Minato Mirai is one of the best areas for families, offering stunning harbor views, shopping malls, and easy access to attractions like Cosmo World, the Cup Noodles Museum, and the Red Brick Warehouse.
  • Best for: Families who want a modern, scenic location close to top attractions.
  • Nearby Attractions: Cosmo World, Cup Noodles Museum, Yokohama Air Cabin.
  • Train Access: Minatomirai Station, Sakuragicho Station.

• Yokohama Station Area (Best for Convenience and Transport Access)
  • Staying near Yokohama Station provides easy access to trains, making it perfect for families taking day trips to Tokyo or other parts of Kanagawa. This area is also home to large shopping malls and family-friendly restaurants.
  • Best for: Families who want a central base for sightseeing and easy train connections.
  • Nearby Attractions: Bay Quarter Mall, Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery.
  • Train Access: Yokohama Station (JR, subway, and private rail lines).

• Chinatown & Motomachi (Best for Culture and Food Lovers)
  • Yokohama’s Chinatown and Motomachi areas offer a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, cultural experiences, and shopping options. Staying here provides a blend of local charm and international flavors.
  • Best for: Families who love food, shopping, and cultural experiences.
  • Nearby Attractions: Yokohama Chinatown, Yamashita Park, Osanbashi Pier.
  • Train Access: Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line).

Hotels in Yokohama for Families

• Luxury Option: Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu
  • Why Families Love It: Spacious rooms with harbor views, an indoor pool, and easy access to Cosmo World.
  • Nearby Attractions: Cosmo World, Cup Noodles Museum, Red Brick Warehouse.

• Mid-Range Option: InterContinental Yokohama Grand
  • Why Families Love It: Large family rooms with views of the Ferris wheel and easy access to Minato Mirai.
  • Nearby Attractions: Yokohama Air Cabin, Minato Mirai waterfront.

• Budget Option: Hotel Edit Yokohama
  • Why Families Love It: Affordable, modern design, and close to shopping malls and public transportation.
  • Nearby Attractions: Yokohama Station, Bay Quarter Mall.

• Unique Stay: Hotel New Grand (Historic Landmark Hotel)
  • Why Families Love It: A classic hotel with a rich history, elegant rooms, and a great location near Yamashita Park.
  • Nearby Attractions: Chinatown, Yamashita Park, Osanbashi Pier.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you’re visiting both Yokohama and Tokyo, consider staying one or two nights in Yokohama to fully explore the city without rushing back to Tokyo each day.

Top Things to Do in Yokohama with Kids

Yokohama is filled with exciting attractions for kids, from hands-on museums and amusement parks to scenic waterfront parks and cultural sites of Japan. Whether your family enjoys interactive learning, outdoor adventures, or thrilling rides, there’s something for everyone in Japan’s second-largest city. The Klook Yokohama Pass is a great way to bundle admission to top attractions and save while you explore.

Cup Noodles Museum – Create Your Own Instant Ramen

• Why It’s Awesome: This interactive museum allows kids to design their own Cup Noodles, learn about the history of instant ramen, and play in a noodle-themed playground. The My Cup Noodles Factory is a highlight, where kids can customize their own instant noodle cup with different ingredients.
• Age Recommendations: Best for ages 3+
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds
• Cost: ¥
• Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with elevators and family restrooms.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to create the most unique instant noodle flavor combination!

Yokohama Cosmo World – A Waterfront Amusement Park

• Why It’s Awesome: Cosmo World is home to one of Japan’s largest Ferris wheels, offering stunning views of the city and harbor. The amusement park has kid-friendly rides, arcade games, and family attractions, making it a fun stop for all ages.
• Age Recommendations: All ages
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for sunset views from the Ferris wheel
• Cost: Free entry, rides ¥
• Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly, but some ride areas require stairs.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Ride the Ferris wheel at night and spot the landmarks of Minato Mirai!

Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise – An Aquarium and Theme Park in One

• Why It’s Awesome: This ocean-themed amusement park and aquarium is perfect for families who love marine life, rides, and interactive animal experiences. Highlights include dolphin shows, a giant sea turtle encounter, and an underwater tunnel.
• Age Recommendations: All ages
• Duration: Half-day to full-day visit
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to see the animal feeding shows
• Cost: ¥¥ – Buy your tickets here.
• Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps throughout the park.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to touch a friendly stingray in the interactive zone!

Anpanman Children’s Museum – Perfect for Young Kids

• Why It’s Awesome: This museum is themed around Anpanman, one of Japan’s most beloved cartoon characters, featuring interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, and themed restaurants.
• Age Recommendations: Best for ages 1–6
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds
• Cost: ¥
• Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with baby-changing facilities.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try Anpanman-shaped bread at the themed bakery!

Yamashita Park – A Relaxing Waterfront Park with Ocean Views

• Why It’s Awesome: Located along Yokohama’s waterfront, Yamashita Park is a great place for a picnic, a leisurely walk, or watching boats in the harbor. Kids will love the open green spaces, flower gardens, and nearby Hikawa Maru ship museum.
• Age Recommendations: All ages
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a peaceful sunset walk
• Cost: Free
• Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with wide pathways and resting areas.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to find the famous “Girl with Red Shoes” statue in the park!

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you’re visiting Cosmo World, the Cup Noodles Museum, and Yamashita Park, they are all within walking distance of each other, making for a great full-day family itinerary.

Best Outdoor Places in Yokohama for Families

Yokohama is a great city for outdoor exploration, offering beaches, parks, waterfront walks, and even mountain trails. Whether your family enjoys nature, cycling, or hands-on farm experiences, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. If you’re planning your Japan trip on a budget, our Japan Budget Family Travel Guide can help you enjoy it all without overspending.

Nogeyama Zoo – A Free Zoo with a Great City View

• Why It’s Awesome: This free-entry zoo is home to red pandas, giraffes, lions, and monkeys, making it a great stop for families with young children. The small size and open spaces make it easy to explore without feeling overwhelming.
• Age Recommendations: All ages
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Morning for active animal viewing
• Cost: Free
• Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly, but some areas have slopes.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to spot the red panda climbing in the trees!

Zoorasia – A Large, Nature-Focused Safari Park

• Why It’s Awesome: Zoorasia is a spacious, eco-friendly zoo where animals live in large, natural enclosures. Families can see elephants, snow leopards, and chimpanzees, as well as play in the jungle-themed kids’ park.
• Age Recommendations: All ages
• Duration: Half-day visit
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds
• Cost: ¥
• Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with rental strollers available.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to spot the rare snow leopard!

Kodomo no Kuni – A Giant Outdoor Playground for Kids

• Why It’s Awesome: This massive kids’ park features playgrounds, mini train rides, a petting zoo, and paddle boats, making it one of the best outdoor adventure spots in Yokohama for families.
• Age Recommendations: Best for ages 3–12
• Duration: Half-day to full-day visit
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather
• Cost: ¥
• Accessibility: Stroller-friendly, but some areas have grassy hills.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to ride the pedal boats across the park’s lake!

Sankeien Garden – A Beautiful Traditional Japanese Garden

• Why It’s Awesome: This historic Japanese garden features pagodas, koi ponds, and seasonal flower displays, making it a peaceful and scenic spot for families.
• Age Recommendations: All ages
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for colorful leaves
• Cost: ¥
• Accessibility: Partially stroller-friendly, but some paths are gravel or have steps.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to find the hidden tea house inside the garden!

Enoshima Island – A Beach and Nature Escape Near Yokohama

• Why It’s Awesome: Just a short train ride from Yokohama, Enoshima Island offers a mix of beaches, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. Families can visit the Enoshima Aquarium, climb up to Enoshima Shrine, or take the escalator to the top for amazing ocean views.
• Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5+
• Duration: Half-day to full-day trip
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for the beach, autumn for hiking
• Cost: Free
• Accessibility: Not stroller-friendly, as there are many steps and slopes.
• Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to find the dragon statue hidden on the island!

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If your family enjoys outdoor adventures, combine a visit to Zoorasia in the morning with a relaxing afternoon at Sankeien Garden for a full day of nature fun.

Cultural Highlights in Yokohama for Kids

Yokohama has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by its history as Japan’s first major international port city. Families visiting Yokohama can experience historic sites, hands-on cultural activities, and a unique blend of Japanese and Western influences.

Discovering Yokohama’s International Heritage

• Yokohama’s Historic Port – A Blend of Japanese and International Influences: As one of the first ports to open to foreign trade in the 19th century, Yokohama developed a unique mix of Western, Chinese, and Japanese culture. This influence is seen in the architecture, food, and international neighborhoods throughout the city.
• Where to Experience It:
  • Osanbashi Pier – A historic port area with scenic harbor views.
  • Yokohama Archives of History – A museum showcasing the city’s international past.

• Yokohama Chinatown – The Largest Chinatown in Japan: Established over 160 years ago, Yokohama’s Chinatown is the biggest in Japan, home to Chinese temples, food stalls, and festivals. Families can enjoy street performances, fortune-telling, and traditional lion dances during festivals.
  • Where to Experience It:
    • Kanteibyo Temple – A beautifully decorated Chinese temple in the heart of Chinatown.
    • Nankinmachi Street – Lined with shops selling panda-themed souvenirs and dim sum treats.

• Traditional Japanese Arts & Crafts in Yokohama: Families can experience Japanese calligraphy, pottery, and other traditional crafts through cultural workshops in the city.
  • Where to Experience It:
    • Yokohama Silk Museum – Learn about the history of silk production and try weaving.
    • Sogo Museum of Art – Offers Japanese painting and calligraphy workshops.

Fun Phrases to Say in Yokohama

Yokohama’s dialect is similar to standard Japanese, but the city’s international past has influenced some of its expressions. Learning a few local phrases can make interactions more fun.

• Yabai ne! – “That’s amazing!” or “That’s awesome!” (Used in casual conversation).
• Ii jan! – “That’s great!” (A common Yokohama way to express approval).
• Sugoi ne! – “So cool!” or “Wow, that’s impressive!” (Frequently used by local kids to show excitement)

Encouraging kids to use these phrases while talking to shopkeepers or restaurant staff can make their trip more interactive and fun.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If visiting Chinatown, try joining a dumpling-making workshop; some restaurants offer hands-on classes where kids can shape and steam their own dumplings.

What to Eat in Yokohama with Kids

Yokohama is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and international cuisine that appeals to both kids and adults. Whether your family wants to try creative instant noodles, fresh seafood, or sweet Japanese treats, there are plenty of delicious options to explore.

Cup Noodles Museum – Create Your Own Instant Noodles

• What It Is: A fun, interactive museum where kids can design and customize their own Cup Noodles, choosing from different soup flavors and toppings.
• Why Kids Will Love It:
  • Hands-on experience creating their own personalized Cup Noodles.
  • Fun noodle-themed play areas and history exhibits.
  • A food court serving instant noodle dishes from around the world.
• Where to Try It: Cup Noodles Museum (Minato Mirai)

Yokohama Chinatown Street Food – Fun and Tasty Snacks

• What It Is: Yokohama Chinatown is filled with delicious, bite-sized treats, perfect for snacking while exploring. Kids will love the panda-shaped buns, dumplings, and sweet sesame balls.
• Why Kids Will Love It:
  • Fun-shaped steamed buns filled with custard or red bean paste.
  • Juicy pork buns and crispy spring rolls.
  • A lively atmosphere with colorful lanterns and street performers.
• Where to Try It:
  • Roushouki – Famous for fluffy pork buns.
  • Eiko Shokudo – Specializes in crispy spring rolls.

Shumai from Kiyoken – Yokohama’s Most Famous Dumplings

• What It Is: Kiyoken is a historic Yokohama brand known for its delicious shumai (steamed dumplings), often sold in bento boxes with rice and pickles.
• Why Kids Will Love It:
  • Soft, bite-sized dumplings that are easy to eat.
  • Sold in cute, colorful bento boxes.
  • Available at train stations, making it a great snack for day trips.
• Where to Try It: Kiyoken shops at Yokohama Station, Chinatown, and Minato Mirai.

PABLO Cheesecake – Fluffy and Fun to Eat

• What It Is: A light, fluffy cheesecake with a slightly molten center, known for its soft texture and creamy flavor. PABLO is one of Japan’s most popular cheesecake brands and has a shop near Yokohama Station.
• Why Kids Will Love It:
  • Soft and airy texture, easy for young kids to eat
  • Fun to watch it being freshly baked in-store
  • Available in original or chocolate flavors, and mini versions perfect for sharing
• Where to Try It: PABLO (Yokohama Station area, inside or near Sogo Department Store)

Goma Dango – Sweet Sesame Dumplings

• What It Is: A fried rice dumpling coated in sesame seeds and filled with red bean paste, commonly found in Yokohama’s Chinatown.
• Why Kids Will Love It:
  • Crispy outside, soft inside.
  • Fun to eat while exploring Chinatown.
  • A sweet treat without being too sugary.
• Where to Try It: Nankinmachi Chinatown Street Food Stalls.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If visiting the Cup Noodles Museum, plan your lunch there; the Noodles Bazaar food court serves ramen and noodle dishes from different countries, giving kids a chance to try new flavors in a fun setting.

Shopping in Yokohama for Kids & Families

Yokohama offers a mix of modern shopping malls, traditional souvenir shops, and character-themed stores, making it a great city for picking up unique gifts and keepsakes. Whether your kids love Japanese toys, sweet treats, or hands-on souvenir experiences, there’s something for everyone.

Best Places for Toy Shops, Snacks, and Souvenirs

• Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse – Unique Souvenirs in a Historic Setting
  • Why Kids Will Love It: This historic shopping complex features independent boutiques selling handmade crafts, toys, and gourmet snacks. The seasonal events, like Christmas markets and summer festivals, make it an exciting shopping destination.
  • Location: Minato Mirai
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, with wide walkways and elevators.

• Yokohama Landmark Plaza – Character Goods and Toys
  • Why Kids Will Love It: This shopping mall in Minato Mirai has a variety of toy stores, character shops, and bookstores featuring popular Japanese brands like Pokémon, Studio Ghibli, and Sanrio (Hello Kitty).
  • Location: Minato Mirai
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, with elevators and baby-friendly rest areas.

• Chinatown Shopping Street – Fun Panda-Themed Gifts
  • Why Kids Will Love It: Chinatown is filled with adorable panda-themed souvenirs, including panda plushies, cookies, and chopsticks. The street food stalls also sell take-home treats like sesame dumplings and pineapple cakes.
  • Location: Nankinmachi, Chinatown
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, but can be crowded on weekends.

• Yokohama World Porters – Everything in One Place
  • Why Kids Will Love It: This large shopping mall has toy stores, candy shops, and character goods all in one place. It’s also home to the Disney Store Yokohama, perfect for Disney fans looking for souvenirs.
  • Location: Minato Mirai
  • Stroller-friendly? Yes, with elevators and spacious walkways.

What to Buy in Yokohama: Top Souvenirs for Kids

• Cup Noodles DIY Kit – A Custom Souvenir from the Cup Noodles Museum
  • Kids can take home their own Cup Noodles creation, complete with their customized packaging and selected ingredients.
  • Where to Buy: Cup Noodles Museum gift shop.

• Ghibli and Pokémon Goods – Perfect for Anime Fans
  • Plush toys, puzzles, and stationery featuring Totoro, Pikachu, and other beloved characters.
  • Where to Buy: Landmark Plaza, World Porters.

• Yokohama Chocolates and Sweets
  • Special Yokohama-themed chocolates and sweets, including red brick-shaped chocolate bars inspired by the Red Brick Warehouse.
  • Where to Buy: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, train station souvenir shops.

• Yokohama Panda Goods – A Chinatown Specialty
  • Panda-shaped plushies, keychains, and chopsticks make for adorable souvenirs.
  • Where to Buy: Nankinmachi Chinatown souvenir shops.

• Yokohama Maritime-Themed Gifts
  • Miniature ship models, sailor hats, and ocean-inspired accessories, perfect for kids who love boats and the sea.
  • Where to Buy: Osanbashi Pier gift shops, Marine Tower souvenir stores.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you’re flying home, buy Yokohama sweets and snacks at the airport; they often have exclusive flavors and gift sets not available in regular stores.

Yokohama with Kids – 3-Day Sample Itinerary

This 3-day itinerary is designed to help families experience the best of Yokohama, from interactive museums and amusement parks to cultural landmarks and scenic waterfronts. Whether you follow it exactly or mix and match, this guide ensures a fun, well-balanced trip for all ages.

Day 1 – Minato Mirai Museums, Rides, and Waterfront Walks

Morning: Start your Yokohama adventure at the Cup Noodles Museum, where kids can create their own instant ramen, explore noodle-themed exhibits, and play in the noodle playground.

Afternoon: Walk to Yokohama Cosmo World, an amusement park with kid-friendly rides, arcade games, and Japan’s iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel. Have lunch at Mosaic Mall or one of the family-friendly restaurants in World Porters.

Evening: Take a scenic ride on the Yokohama Air Cabin, Japan’s first urban ropeway, and enjoy a sunset view over Minato Mirai. End the night with a relaxing stroll through Yamashita Park, where families can watch the boats in the harbor.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If your kids love theme parks, Cosmo World is best enjoyed in the late afternoon when the Ferris wheel lights up.

Day 2 – Zoo Adventures and Chinatown Exploration

Morning: Visit Zoorasia, a nature-focused zoo where families can see elephants, snow leopards, and tropical birds in spacious enclosures. Younger kids will love the interactive jungle playground and animal feeding areas.

Afternoon: Head to Yokohama Chinatown for lunch, where kids can try panda-shaped buns, dumplings, and sweet sesame balls. After eating, explore the colorful streets of Chinatown and visit Kanteibyo Temple.

Evening: Walk to Osanbashi Pier, one of the best places to watch the sunset over Yokohama Bay. If time allows, visit the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse for souvenir shopping and family-friendly restaurants.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If visiting Chinatown, go in the late afternoon to avoid lunchtime crowds and enjoy the illuminated lanterns at night.

Day 3 – Outdoor Parks or a Day Trip to Enoshima

Morning: Start the day at Nogeyama Zoo, a free-entry zoo where kids can see red pandas, giraffes, and small animals in a relaxed setting. It’s a great spot for a casual morning outing before a bigger adventure.

Afternoon: Take a short train ride to Enoshima Island, a beach and nature escape near Yokohama. Families can visit Enoshima Aquarium, walk along the scenic seaside, or take the escalator up to Enoshima Shrine for stunning ocean views.

Evening: Return to Yokohama and enjoy a final dinner in Minato Mirai, where you can find family-friendly restaurants serving ramen, sushi, and Western-style meals. If your kids love dessert, stop by Uncle Rikuro’s for their famous fluffy cheesecake before heading back.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you prefer to stay in Yokohama, Sankeien Garden is a great alternative to Enoshima, offering a peaceful stroll through traditional Japanese landscapes.

FAQs: Traveling to Yokohama with Kids

Here are some of the most common questions parents have when planning a trip to Yokohama with kids.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If you’re traveling with young kids, spend more time in Minato Mirai and the waterfront parks; it’s stroller-friendly and has plenty of space for kids to run around.

Until Next Time…

Yokohama is a city that combines modern attractions, cultural heritage, and outdoor fun, making it a perfect destination for families. Whether you spent your time designing your own Cup Noodles, riding the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, exploring Chinatown, or enjoying a relaxing day at the waterfront, we hope your trip was filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

With its kid-friendly museums, scenic parks, and delicious food, Yokohama is a place that families will want to visit again and again. Each season brings new experiences, from cherry blossoms in spring to festive illuminations in winter, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

Official Tourism Resource for Yokohama
Want more tips for your next visit? Head over to the Official Yokohama Travel Guide for maps, event info, and seasonal highlights to help plan your family’s return adventure.

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