On the western coast of Tokyo Bay directly south of Tokyo, Yokohama (横浜) is the second largest city in Japan and one of the cities most used to seeing foreigners.
Understand
[edit]First a fishing village, Yokohama developed into a bustling port city following the establishment of foreign trade after the opening of Japan in 1854. It was the site where Commodore Matthew Perry landed and signed the Kanagawa Treaty ending over 200 years of isolationalism by the Tokugawa Shogunate. At the forefront of the Meiji restoration, the first train line in Japan connected Tokyo and Yokohama. However, Yokohama was devastated by the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and again by the firebombings of World War II, and never really regained its prominence. It remains a maritime city to this day and retains an international flavor.
Tourist Information
[edit]The city has a multilingual Official Visitors Guide site.
Get in
[edit]Yokohama is half an hour away from Tokyo, and effectively forms a part of the giant conurbation.
By plane
[edit]Yokohama does not have its own airport. You can reach Yokohama from Tokyo's two main airports.
Some Narita Express trains from Narita Airport go through to Yokohama (1½ hours, ¥4290 or free with JR Pass). Limousine Buses run frequently from Narita to the Yokohama City Air Terminal (YCAT) in 2 hours (¥3600). The cheapest access from Narita Airport involves a Keisei train. The Keisei Main Line train, with one across-the-platform transfer at Aoto, will cost ¥1500 to Yokohama. The Sky Access line train will cost ¥1690. Most Sky Access trains run to Keisei Ueno, but there are a handful each day which run through to Yokohama (and beyond; generally to Kanazawa-Bunko) on the Keikyu Main Line.
From Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Line's Express (急行) to Yokohama station in 30–35 minutes for ¥480. The Express has several variants: If the train's destination is Shin-Zushi (新逗子) or Kanazawa-Bunko (金沢文庫), then you can stay on the train for the entire trip. If the train goes to another destination, it's likely to continue on into Tokyo so you will need to change at Keikyu-Kamata station to the next main line limited express train going in the other direction.
By train
[edit]
Map of Yokohama
The overwhelming majority of visitors to Yokohama arrive from Tokyo by train. A multitude of train lines connect the two cities at roughly equal prices, but some of the more convenient options are:
- Tokyu Toyoko Line (東急東横線) from Shibuya to Yokohama Station. A trip from Shibuya to Yokohama takes as little as 26 minutes on the fastest service; at a cost of ¥280 this is the cheapest trip from metro Tokyo. Chinatown, the terminus of the MM21 line, is another 10 minutes away (Motomachi-Chukagai, ¥220 from Yokohama or ¥500 from Shibuya). Up to eight kyūkō (急行) and tokkyū (特急) trains per hour.
The Toyoko Line station in Shibuya is deep underground, due to its connection with the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line subway. On a positive note, this allows trains to continue north to Shinjuku, Ikebukuro and into Saitama.
- JR Ueno-Tokyo Line (上野東京ライン) and Tokaido Main Line (東海道線) from Ueno, Tokyo and Shinagawa stations (all on the Yamanote Line). Departs every 10 minutes; more trains during rush hour. About 25 minutes from Tokyo to Yokohama, ¥470. Commuter Rapid Service (通勤快速) and Shonan Liner (湘南ライナー) trains do not stop at Yokohama Station.
- JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line (湘南新宿ライン) from Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ebisu and Ōsaki. This was the first JR line that connected the western part of the Tokyo metropolis to Yokohama; it competes with the Fukutoshin and Toyoko lines. Roughly four trains per hour, reaching Yokohama from Shinjuku in as little as 30 minutes at a cost of ¥550.
JR Trains from Ōmiya and Urawa in Saitama and Akabane in northern Tokyo run towards Yokohama using either the Shonan Shinjuku Line or the Ueno-Tokyo Line. The trip from Ōmiya takes 60–70 minutes either way and costs ¥920.
- JR Yokosuka Line (横須賀線): A less-convenient alternative from Tokyo Station and Shinagawa. However, it is the route of choice if coming from stations east of Tokyo on the Sobu Rapid line, such as Tsudanuma and Chiba, as most of these trains continue onto the Yokosuka line. About 30 minutes from Tokyo to Yokohama; about 75 minutes from Chiba (¥1080). Departs every 15 minutes or so from Tokyo; more trains during rush hour.
- JR Keihin-Tohoku Line (京浜東北線) from Nippori, Ueno, Akihabara, Tokyo, and Shinagawa Stations. This train stops at more stations in Yokohama than the Yokosuka Line, including Sakuragicho (桜木町), which is within walking distance of Chinatown. It is also a convenient route from stations north of Tokyo in Saitama prefecture. About 35 minutes from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station. Departs every 5 minutes from Tokyo; more trains during rush hour.
On the Tokaido, Yokosuka and Keihin Tohoku lines, the trip from Tokyo Station costs ¥470, and from Shinagawa, ¥290.
- Keihin-Kyuko Main Line (京急本線), or Keikyu for short, from Shinagawa and Haneda Airport. Most trains from the Toei Asakusa subway line continue onto the Keikyu line. Departs every 10 minutes from Shinagawa at a cost of ¥300 (more trains during rush hour), with the fastest train reaching Yokohama in only 18 minutes. Keikyu WING (京急ウィング) trains do not stop at Yokohama.
- Sotetsu Line (相鉄線) from Ebina to Yokohama (25 minutes by limited express, ¥310) and from Shonan-dai to Yokohama (30 minutes by express, ¥350). A useful connection from the western Tokyo suburbs on the Odakyu Line. The Sotetsu Line also has through-service to the JR Line (via the Shonan-Shinjuku Line) to Shibuya and Shinjuku. The trip from Ebina to Shinjuku costs ¥844. There are no direct trains coming from Shonandai to Shinjuku on the Sotetsu Line, so a transfer at Nishiya is needed for service to the JR Line. Alternatively, those from Shonandai can take the Odakyu Line which also runs into Shinjuku.
Shinkansen trains go to Shin-Yokohama station instead, a few stations away from the main Yokohama station. The two stations are connected via the JR Yokohama line (10–15 minutes via direct service, ¥170) and the Yokohama Subway Blue Line (10 minutes, ¥240). Alternatively, take the Shinkansen to Shinagawa and change to the Tokaido, Yokosuka or Keihin Tohoku lines. If your final destination is Chinatown or the harbor area, taking one of the non-Shinkansen trains listed above is likely to be faster.
Minato-Mirai Line
[edit]The Minato Mirai Line (みなとみらい線) is a direct extension of the Tokyu Toyoko Line. Connection with the lines is at Yokohama Station, and the line has five stations: Shin-Takashimacho (新高島町), Minatomirai (みなとみらい), Bashamichi (馬車道), Nihon Ōdori (日本大通り), and Motomachi-Chūkagai (元町・中華街), terminating at the posh Motomachi shopping street and the second largest Chinatown in the world. The line’s stations are worth seeing, especially Minato-Mirai Station itself, where you are able to see straight up to the very spacious entrance hall (7 floors in all) of the Yokohama Landmark Tower, the second tallest building in Japan.
Bashamichi Station is built with artifact bricks and hosts the remains of the first western style bank of Yokohama. Bashamichi (literal translation: horse carriage street) was the first street in Japan to have gas fired street lighting, which were re-installed lately. Bashamichi Station is surrounded by historical buildings, built only a century ago, but for Japanese standards are a true catapulting into westernization. Thus all buildings remaining (partially rebuilt after the heavy bombings of World War II) are protected as “historical – cultural national treasure.”
Nihon-Ōdori Station is similar to Bashamichi Station. Nihon-Ōdori (meaning Japan Avenue) is a two lane-two way avenue, which back then separated the living quarters of the foreign delegation and Japanese.
The line runs parallel to the Keihin-Tohoku Line. Due to the massive expense of maintaining the designer-class stations, the fares are rather pricey, but definitely worthwhile. The line runs through the very historical parts of Yokohama, when Japan opened up to the Western civilization. Many history-related museums of Yokohama are dotted along the line, and to attract further tourists, the line offers a one-day unlimited ride ticket (¥460 for adults, 1/2 price for children).
Get around
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Yokohama is not a very automobile-friendly place, especially for foreigners. Public transit and walking works best. The official guide site has some maps in English.
By train
[edit]The Minato Mirai 21 subway line from Yokohama station down the harborfront to Chinatown is the best method of accessing the main tourist haunts. The main subway line is useful primarily for transfers between central Yokohama and the Shinkansen station. JR Negishi Line (根岸線) is also available for Chinatown and Minato Mirai Area. All Negishi Line Trains with the blue line are direct service via the Keihin-Tohoku Line. For suburban areas, Yokohama has a subway and extensive commuter rail lines that crisscross the city from every direction and to all neighboring cities.
Yokohama Subway (横浜市営地下鉄) has two lines: the main Blue Line from Azamino to Shonandai and the short Green Line from Hiyoshi to Nakayama. You can get around Yokohama easily using the subway lines.
By bus
[edit]Akai Kutsu Bus is a sight-seeing bus around Minatomirai, Chinatown and Motomachi. It looks like an old red bus and runs every 20 minutes on the main loop. A ticket costs ¥220, and a 1 day pass costs ¥500.
By boat
[edit]The "Sea Bass" boat operates between JR Yokohama station (east exit), Minato Mirai and Yamashita Park, and is one of the nicest ways to get around on a sunny day. The fare is ¥350-700 depending on the distance.
By human power
[edit]Velo taxis called "Cyclopolitain" (シクロポリタン, shikuroporitan) are widely available within the harbor area, while rickshaws make their rounds within Chinatown.
On foot
[edit]Central Yokohama is comparatively compact and the Chinatown/Yamashita Park area is best explored on foot.
See
[edit]- 1 Marine Tower, 15 Yamashitacho, Naka-ku. Closed for renovations until 2022. Considered by some to be the tallest on-land lighthouse in the world. Built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Yokohama's port opening. In clear conditions, visitors can see Mount Fuji from the 100-metre high observation deck. Adults ¥750.
- 2 Hikawa Maru (氷川丸), Yamashita Park. Yamashita-cho, Naka-ku. Tu-Su 10:00-17:00. This passenger liner made 238 voyages across the Pacific to Seattle and Vancouver between 1930 and 1960, and served as a hospital ship during World War II. The ship is also used for movie and TV location shooting including the 1997 film Moonlight Serenade and the 2005 NHK drama Haru to Natsu. Adult ¥300, senior ¥200, child ¥100.
- 3 Landmark Tower, MM21 Minato Mirai Station (Minato Mirai 21 district). Su-F 10:00-21:00, Sa 10:00-22:00. The Landmark Tower was the tallest building in Japan until the construction of the Tokyo Sky Tree. It continues to be the tallest in Yokohama. The observation platform on the 69th floor provides good views all the way to Tokyo and Mt. Fuji can be seen on clear days. The elevators are said to be the fastest in Japan. For a classier experience, try the cocktail lounge on the 70th floor (drinks ¥1000+ each) or eat dinner on the 68th (see below). Adults ¥1000.
- 4 Ōsanbashi Pier (大さん橋), 1-1-4, Kaigandori, Naka-ku, ☏ +81 45-211-2304. 24/7. Ōsanbashi Pier is the main international pier at the Port of Yokohama where cruise ships dock. Architecturally renovated with an abstract modern style in 2002, it provides a view of the Minato Mirai skyline. The rooftop garden is open to public and is very beautiful, especially during sunset. Free.
- 5 Keiō University - Hiyoshi Campus (慶應義塾大学, Keiō Gijuku Daigaku). A campus of the oldest university in Japan. It is known for its campus' towering maidenhair trees, turning a lovely yellow in the fall. The Hiyoshi tunnels are underneath.
- Hiyoshi Tunnels (旧日吉台地下壕), ☏ +81 45-562-0443. These tunnels were the headquarters of Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II. Naval commanders from these tunnels ordered Kamikaze attacks, directed ground battles such as the Battle of Okinawa, and naval engagements like the Battle of Leyte Gulf during the later years of World War II. There are many rooms. The university allows visits once per month.
- 6 Yokohama Bay Bridge (横浜ベイブリッジ). This is an 860-m-long cable suspension bridge spanning the Port of Yokohama. There is an observation platform attached to the Bay Bridge called Skywalk, which is only open on certain days of the week dependent on the month. To get there, take a bus in front of JR Sakuragichō station. If you cannot find the correct bus, ask for help from the Tourist information center located right in front of the station. However, the bus trip takes quite a while and there is nothing more to see than the view of Minato Mirai from afar.
- Street Performance. There are many street performers, especially in Yamashita Park and Granmall Park (middle of Landmark Tower and Queens Square in Sakuragicho) every weekend. Above all, fire performance is so dynamic.
Neighborhoods
[edit]- 7 Chinatown (中華街 Chūkagai). Located next to Motomachi-Chinatown (romanized as Motomachi-Chūkagai) station, and a short walk from Ishikawachō <Motomachi-Chinatown> station on the Negishi Line, Yokohama's Chinatown is the largest in Japan and dates back to the Opening of Japan in 1859. These days it's unabashedly touristy, but there are plenty of Chinese grocery stores and places to buy a cheap cheongsam dress or jade knick-knacks.
- 8 Yamate (山手). This is the neighborhood where foreigners settled and still settle. You can make a pleasant walk from the Italian garden near Ishikawachō station to the French park near Motomachi-Chūkagai station. The walk will take you along some nice houses that were previously owned by rich foreigners. Nowadays, these houses can be visited freely. A nice cake shop can be found here as well. The foreigner cemetery is also along this route and houses a small museum with some pictures of the Motomachi shopping street in the old days and some more cartoons showing how the Japanese saw foreigners.
Chinatown in Yokohama
Museums
[edit]- 9 Yokohama History Museum (横浜市歴史博物館), Tsuzuki-ku, Nakagawachuou 1-18-1, ☏ +81 45-912-7777. 09:00-17:00. This museum introduces Yokohama's history from Primary period to Modern period. Next to the museum, there are excavations of Yayoi period.
- 10 Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama, 2-3-4 Shinko, Naka-ku, ☏ +81 45-345-0918. M-Su 10:00-18:00. Museum dedicated to the creation of cup noodles by Momofuku Ando. Exhibits about the history of instant noodles. You can make your own custom designed cup noodles at the museum (¥300) - get a numbered ticket as soon as you enter as there is a daily quota. Kids activities include making chicken ramen in a test kitchen by hand (¥300-500) and an interactive park (¥300). There is a food hall exhibiting international noodle dishes on the 4th floor (¥300/half size servings). Adults ¥500.
- 11 Anpanman Children's Museum, 6-2-9, Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku (Minatomirai line "Shintakashima" station or Yokohama subway line "Takashimacho" station), ☏ +81 45-227-8855. Daily Museum 10:00-17:00, shops & restaurant 10:00-18:00. Museum showcasing the popular children's TV and book character Anpanman. Children can play with many hands-on exhibits and meet Anpanman and friends. You can buy anpan (bean-jam filled pastry) and many goods in the gift shop. Shops & restaurants free, museum ¥2200.
- 12 Equine Museum of Japan (馬の博物館), 1-3 Negishidai, Naka-ku, ☏ +81 45-662-7581, fax: +81 45-662-7713. Tu-Su 10:00-16:30. Exhibits on the history of horsemanship in Japan and the ecology and physiology of horses. There are also special events to interact with horses. Adult ¥100, youth ¥30.
- 13 Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature (神奈川近代文学館), 110 Yamate, Naka-ku (Motomachi-Chukagai Station, Exit 6), ☏ +81 45-622-6666. Th-Su 09:30-17:00. Located in Harbor View Park, this museum specializes in modern Japanese literature. The museum holds large-scale exhibitions several times a year and collects materials on various authors. The museum also has a reading room where visitors can obtain a variety of materials.
Parks
[edit]- 14 Sankei-en Park. (三渓園). 35 min by bus from Yokohama Stn. SE of Naka Ward, this is a traditional style of park and known as Teien (lit. "set park"). Opened in 1906, this large park (17,5000 ft²) has many Japanese traditional buildings, 13 of which have been designated as national heritages.
- 15 Yamashita Park (山下公園). You can see the whole port of Yokohama and there's a lot of greenery. A short walk from Motomachi-Chinatown Stn (元町・中華街駅), JR Ishikawachō station (JR石川駅), JR Kannai station (JR関内駅).
- 16 Kishine Park (岸根公園) (Metro Kishine Koen Stn). A large park 9 min away from Yokohama Stn, this is strictly for the locals most of the year, but very popular during cherry blossom season.
- 17 Kamoike Park (鴨池公園) (Tsuzuki). True to the name, "Duck Lake Park" has a large lake, with ducks during the day and fireflies often visible at night in the rainy season.
- 18 Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Park (野口記念公園), Nagahama 114-4 (15 min from Nokendai Stn). Daily 09:00-17:00. The laboratory of bacteriologist Hideyo Noguchi, who discovered the bacteria that causes syphilis and worked on yellow fever vaccines, and whose face adorns the ¥1000 note. The original building was destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake, and the present structure dates from 1997. Free.
- 19 Kikuna Sakurayama Park, 3-11 Kikuna, Kohoku-ku. A small park called "carbon yama" by the locals with many trees all along the streets. If you go to there in spring, you can see beautiful deep pink double-flowered cherry trees called "yae-zakura" in Japanese. Yae-zakura is powerful rather than fine. The park is a popular place for cherry blossom flower viewing. In the summer, there are swimming pools. There is a pool for children, a 25-m pool and a running water pool.
- 20 Negishi Forest Park (根岸森林公園), Negishidai, Naka-ku. Redeveloped from a former horse racing track, this is a large rural park with the Equine Museum of Japan on its grounds. You can ride horses on the third Sunday of each month from 13:00. You can also give horses carrots every Saturday 13:30 to 13:45. It is closed on Monday, First of April, 28th December to 4th January
- 21 Hiyoshi Park (日吉公園), 2-31 Hiyoshi, Kouhoku-ku. There is a fountain, playground equipment, and a big grass square. There are many beautiful Japanese apricot trees in spring with white and pink flowers. You can enjoy ball games there too.
- River Karasuyama (烏山川) (in Shin-yokohama, 10 minutes walk from Shin-Yokohama station). This is a narrow river, but cherry trees are along both side of the river. In spring, the cherry trees are in full bloom and very beautiful. Also, there are lawn and benches here, so you can relax on the benches in a good weather.
Shrines and temples
[edit]- 22 Moro-oka Kumano Shrine (師岡熊野神社), ☏ +81 45-531-0150. Okurayama area. Take Tokyu-Toyoko Line from Yokohama Stn, about 10 min. Then, 7 min walk from Okurayama Stn. This is a famous shrine in Yokohama. Its god is a bird which has three legs. This bird seems like the symbol of the soccer teams of Japan. Therefore, as well as many soccer fans, even Japanese soccer players visit here and pray for the victory of their team. Of course, many other people pay the first visit of the year every year.
- 23 Shōmyō Temple (称名寺) (take the 13 Yokohama Keikyu bus from Kanazawa-bunko Stn (Keihin Kyukou Main Line) get off at Shomyo-ji Temple bus stop). It is a temple built by Hojo Sanetoki in 1258. It has developed into Kamakura Period. It is specified for the historic site in Japan. There is a beautiful garden. A lot of cherry blossoms bloom in spring. Moreover, precincts are illuminated at fireworks of summer and the New Year and it is very beautiful.
- 24 Soujiji (總持寺), 2-1-1 Tsurumi, Tsurumi-ku (Keihin Tohoku line Tsurumi St or Keikyu line Keikyu-Tsurumi St), ☏ +81 45-581-6021, fax: +81 45-571-8221. Buddhist order of Sōtō, Zen temple.
- 25 Kamoi Sugiyama Shrine (杉山神社), 4-13-1 Kamoi, Midori-ku. Small neighborhood Shinto shrine up on a hillside.
- 26 Kikuna Shrine (菊名神社), 6-5-14 Kikuna, Kohoku-ku. A small Shinto shrine in the middle of the Kikuna neighbourhood. In the autumn, the shrine holds a Bon festival honoring ancestors. There are regular festival activities such as a Bon dance as well as food, floats, and amusement stalls.
Stadiums
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- 27 Yokohama Stadium. Located in Naka ward. A short walk from Chinatown, Kannai station, or Nihon-ōdōri station, this is probably one of the most fun places to watch a baseball game in Japan. Known as the BayStars Stadium, the Yokohama Baseball Team of the Central League, the Stadium itself was built on the remains of the Cricket Ballpark of the last century for the British delegation. The BayStars Stadium is an open roof stadium with natural grass, very rare in Japan, which prefers to man-made grass to save on costs, and the entertainment boasted throughout the games is trying hard, and doing a good job, by Japanese terms, in trying to have each game hosted at the "home ground" to be as American as possible.
- 28 Nissan Stadium (Located in Shin-Yokohama). This is one of the biggest soccer stadiums in Japan. The final match of the 2002 FIFA World Cup was held here. This is a home ground of J league soccer teams, Yokohama F. Marinos and Yokohama FC. There are also facilities such as soccer fields, skateboard parks and basketball courts are available for free to the public. It is accessible from Kozukue or Shin-Yokohama stations.
- 29 Yokohama Arena (横浜アリーナ) (Shin-Yokohama, 5 min walk from Shin-Yokohama Stn). This is the biggest arena in Japan. Many famous musicians have concerts there. If you want to go to those concerts, you need to buy the tickets in advance. There are also flea markets here sometimes. In this case, you don't need any tickets or admission. Check the official website for the detailed schedule
- 30 Kanagawa Budokan (神奈川県立武道館), 725 Kishinecho, Kohoku-ku (near Kishine Park). Kendo (Japanese fencing), judo and archery tournaments.
Venues
[edit]- 31 Anniversaire Hills Yokohama (アニヴェルセル ヒルズ横浜), 4-1, Chigasaki-chuo, Tsuzuki-ku (about 3 min from Center-Minami Stn), ☏ +81 45-949-0888. It is a hall for wedding ceremonies. See wedding ceremonies and bless the bride and groom with not only their family or friends but also people who happen to be passing by. When you visit there at night, you can see illuminations.
- 32 Okurayama Memorial Hall (大倉山記念館), 2-10-1 Okurayama, Kohoku-ku. A beautiful building with a hall, gallery, and assembly rooms. It is on the grounds of a park with Japanese apricot trees worth seeing. Local concerts are sometimes held at the hall.
Do
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- 1 Yokohama Cosmo World. Across the water from Minato Mirai 21, is a small amusement park which boasts the Cosmo Clock 21, a 112.5-m Ferris wheel which doubles as "the world's largest clock" (the 60 arms double as second hands). The park also has two roller coasters, a log flume ride and several other attractions. Free but rides ¥500-700 each.
- Manyou Club. It is near the Yokohama Cosmo World in Minato Mirai 21. It is a spa resort. There are many kinds of baths to try while making the rounds. At night, you can see the lights of Yokohama from a foot bath on the roof. You can enjoy and relax all day, because there are beauty salons, massages, and restaurants in this urban resort. ¥2620 (24/7).
- Hakkeijima Seaparadise, ☏ +81457888888. This large amusement park with aquarium, various attractions and shops was opened in 1993. Get off at Seaside line "Hakkeijima" station. There is an area called "Dolphin Fantasy" that exhibits dolphins, including a white one, with a 360° view. You can touch some animals like penguins.
- Zoo Nogeyama. Noge area, and 15 min from JR Sakuragi-cho Stn or Yokohama subway line on foot or you can use a city bus from Sakuragi-cho Stn. There are 100 kinds of animals in it including reptiles, birds, and mammals, and there is a petting zoo for small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and mice. 09:00-16:30. Free.
- ROUND 1 (ラウンドワン). M-F 10:00-05:00, Sa 09:00-05:00, Su 08:00-05:00. This is amusement park. You can bowl, sing Karaoke, and play billiards and darts in here. 15 min on foot from Yokohama Stn (west gate).
- Nissan Water Park. Shin-Yokohama. 12 min walk from Shin-Yokohama Stn, and 7 min walk from Kozukue Stn. This is an indoor pool inside Nissan Stadium. It has two parts; the indoor pool and the indoor hot-water pool. Even if you don't have enough swimming things, you can borrow swimwears, swimcaps, goggles, floats and towels at ¥100-300. Nissan Water Park is located indoor and you can borrow anything, so you can enjoy swimming and being relaxed at anytime in any kinds of weather all year. M-Sa 09:00-21:00, Su 09:00-17:00 (& holidays). ¥500 for an hour, beyond ¥200 per 30 minutes. (Under 13-year-old, half price.)
- Yokohama National Pool, Tsuzuki-ku, Kitayamada 7-3-1, ☏ +81 45-592-0453. Swimming pools and gyms. They are used global games and personal users.
- The Bon dancing festival (盆踊り). The Bon dancing festival' is held in Kamoi during the summer. It is a Japanese traditional festival. People wear 'yukata'(浴衣) which is Japanese traditional cloth. There are many booths. So, you can eat traditional foods. And also, People enjoy doing 'the Bon dancing'.
- Karaoke Box (カラオケ). There is a karaoke box near the Kamoi station. Karaoke means people can sing songs in the room. It started in Japan because it was invented by Japanese. Therefore, it's Japanese culture. Some people can enjoy it. Some people can sing a variety of songs in there. Lately, there are many services in there. It has a high popularity among the young and the old.
- Mammoth Pool, 14-1 hara-machi isogo-ku. This swimming pool is really popular especially for children because there are two pools. One of them is a normal pool and the other one is a river pool. The layout of the two pools is very special. The river pool stretches around the mammoth pool. The fee is ¥800 for adult, ¥200 for children. (3 year old to junior high school student)
Buy
[edit]- 1 Minato Mirai 21 (みなとみらい２１). A futuristic city district built entirely on reclaimed land. Accessible primarily through Minato Mirai Stn (みなとみらい駅), but also frequently accessed via Sakuragicho Stn (桜木町駅). Lots of shopping options spread out within it, including:
- 2 Landmark Plaza / Queen's Square. Giant complex starting from within the Landmark Tower, through to the Pan Pacific Hotel. If you like high-end shopping, then this is the place to check out. Also home to one of the five Pokémon Centers in Japan, wildly popular with kids.
- 3 Pacifico Yokohama (パシフィコ横浜). Cafes, restaurants, shops and hotel. Sometimes concerts are held here.
- 4 Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse "Aka Renga Souko" (横浜赤レンガ倉庫). At the fringe of the MM21 area near Bashamichi Station (馬車道駅) Historic port building dating to 1907. It has beei restored and is home to many boutiques, fashionista or otherwise.
- 5 Yokohama World Porters (横浜ワールドポーターズ). Near Cosmo World and Bashamichi Station (馬車道駅) Many shops and restaurants, slightly less expensive shopping mall experience perhaps catering to the tweens, teens and twenty-somethings you see walking around.
Yokohama Station Area (横浜駅前)
- 6 JoinUs Yokohama (ジョイナス). This maze-like shopping arcade is at the west exit of Yokohama station. There are some restaurants, supermarkets, boutiques, bookstores and so on in here. These shops are inexpensive. But depending on shops, this arcade can be a little complicated; so take care and "Don't lose your way".
- Kiyouken (崎陽軒). A most famous shop of shuumai (焼売, Chinese steam meat dumpling). This is good souvenir and not so expensive at 6 for ¥320, 15 for ¥660, 30 for ¥1310. You can get central gate (中央口) of Yokohama station (between Keihinkyukou line and keihintohoku line).
- 7 Yodobashi Yokohama (ヨドバシ横浜). West Exit Forget Akihabara, this gigantic "denki-ya-san" branch is more than suffice for all your electronics needs. Also has a selection of duty free items. Be sure to sign up for a point card; you'll receive a percentage in points depending on the purchase (usually 13%), which can then be applied same as cash on future purchases at any Yodobashi nationwide.
- 8 Yokohama Bay Quarter (横浜ベイクォーター). 7-min walk from East Exit, across the river from Sogo, steps away from Sea Bus stop Up-market stores set in a pet-friendly, open-air and often breezy atmosphere with great views of the waterfront! Food options are on the gourmet side.
- 9 Yokohama Vivre (横浜ビブレ) (West Exit of the station). Japanese fashion at its best (or worst, depending on your take) for 20- and 30-somethings. Think Shibuya 109 and Parco. Beer garden on the top.
- 10 Motomachi. (元町) is a small but fashionable shopping district located near Chinatown. Get off at Minato Mirai line "Motomachi-Chinatown" station or JR line "Ishikawacho" station.
- 11 Mitsui Outlet Park Yokohama Bayside (三井アウトレットパーク横浜ベイサイド). An outlet shopping mall located in Kanazawahakkei bay area. You get off at Sea side line "Torihama" Stn. It looks like small bay side town. There are about 220 shops. For example, Adidas, Nike, Coach, Edwin and many other popular brands.
- 12 LaLaport Yokohama (ららぽーと横浜). The largest shopping mall in Kanagawa, located in Kamoi. You get off at Yokohama line "Kamoi". There are about 370 shops, cinemas and restaurants.
- Isezaki Mall Shopping Street (イセザキモール). Accessible via Kannai Station (関内駅) Great for the adventurous few who don't want to break the bank shopping at Minato Mirai. Anchored by Matsuzakaya department store, with countless mom and pop stores dotting the area. Lively by day, but be wary at night as the area tends to get a bit seedy.
- Sagami (さが美) (in JoinUs Yokohama). Sagami is a kimono specialty store. The kimono is very expensive. However, you can buy the kimono at popular prices in this shop. The kimono set (kimono and belt) is about ¥10,000. You can rent the kimono. Japanese often put on the kimono at the New Year and a ceremony. At fireworks of summer, they puts on the yukata. Yukata is informal summer kimono.
- 13 Cubic Plaza Shin-yokohama (キュービックプラザ新横浜), ☏ +81 45-478-2722. This is a station building at Shin-yokohama Station. There are many types of shops in it. There are 25 restaurants and 9 cafes, and other shops. For example, many shops for clothes, shoes, accessories and bags. Also, a bookstore, some household goods stores, even a bearty-treatment clinic are here. Of course, you can just go shopping or having meals anytime, but it is convenient for passengers for Shinkansen to buy lunchboxes or souvenirs quickly.
- Minatomirai Tokyu Square (みなとみらい東急スクエア). This is a building which has Japanese fashionable things. Just imagine a little Shibuya 109. Also, Starbucks is in here.
- 14 Colette・Mare (コレットマーレ). This is a big mall which opened in 2010. Many shops, restaurants, bars, theater, lifestyle things and etc. are in. It takes only a minute to go here from Sakuragicho Stn of JR line.
Other (その他)
- 15 Shiba Fishing Port (柴漁港 Shiba Gyoko) (3 min from Umi-no-koen Shibaguchi Stn, Kanazawa Seaside Line). Fishing port where the catch from Tokyo Bay and nearby is landed, with local specialities including conger (anago), lobster (ise-ebi) and sea bass (tai). 1:30PM onwards on Sundays and public holidays only.
Eat
[edit]Budget
[edit]- Shitateya (仕立屋) (1 min from Futamatagawa Stn). Tiny local seafood eatery. Try the deep-fried oysters (kaki furai).
- Le Sucre (ル・シュクル), Nokendai 1-9 (8 min from Nokendai Stn). Pseudo-French bakery well known for its cheesecakes.
- Italian Bar BASIL (バジル), Castle Sakuragi 1F, Noge-cho 2-81, Naka-ku (5 min walk from Sakuragicho Stn Noge exit; across from the Cheruru Shopping Center). Though a stand-bar by nature, a great place to take in a nicely paced meal if you can get a seat. Lots of choices (izakaya-style portions) but focuses on a few ingredients, making for a refreshing take on the all-too-common Italian fare in Japan. Recommendations: any antipasto and risotto, complemented with sangria or wine of the day.
- Kua'Aina (2 locations: 4F Bay Quarter Shopping Center (Yokohama Stn E Exit) and Akarenga Shopping Center (5 min walk from Bashamichi Stn)). Hawaiian-style burgers. Big menu with standard and gourmet burgers, as well as some American-style sandwiches. Set menus ¥980 and up.
- Tori Dori (鳥どり), Kanzaki Building 1F, Noge-cho 2-59, Naka-ku (down the street from the Cheruru Shopping Center). Yakitori and other izakaya fare, as well as drink specials on weeknights (around ¥200) and all-you-can-drink (¥600) available for 4 or more people (a rarity for yakitori restaurants). No English menu, however knowledge of yakitori lingo should suffice.
- Shabu-Shabu Buffet Syabu-Yo (しゃぶしゃぶブッフェ しゃぶ葉) (1F World Porters Shopping Center (Minato Mirai area)). While most all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu restaurants will typically serve pork, this one serves pork and beef for ¥2079. Vegetables, desserts, and a full range of drinks are set out buffet-style while staff keeps the meat coming. Has a very Japanese atmosphere (music, decor) without being over-the-top.
- Tinun (ティーヌン) (6F Cial (Yokohama Station West Exit)). Classier version of the local Thai restaurant chain. Stir-fried noodles are a must.
- Edaminami Parisienne, Edaminami 5-7-3, Tsuzuki-ku, ☏ +81 45-941-7106. Daily 09:00-19:00. Bakery shop known for its curry doughnuts.
- Yokohama Kurikoan (横浜くりこ庵), 神奈川県横浜市西区南幸1-11-1 (Yokohama station West exit 5). 10:00-21:30. Famous for their version of taiyaki, a Japanese pastry usually made with red bean paste, but here they use chestnut paste (kuriko-an) instead.
- Sante Ole (サンテオレ), ☏ +81 45-785-1534. Shop known for its "coroquette burger", using potato inside instead of beef. Major Leaguer Daisuke Matsuzaka ate here in his school days.
- Bunnosuke Chaya (文の助茶屋) (Cubic Plaza Shinyokohama 10F, beside Shinyokohama Stn.). Daily 11:00-20:00. A shop serving Kyoto-style sweets (about ¥400-1000). There are also some light meals like soba dishes (most are around ¥1000). The shop's warabi-mochi (わらび餅) (bracken-starch dumpling) is recommended for its rich moderately sweet flavor of soybean flour.
- Konaraku (こな楽), 4-7 Omaru, Tsuduki-ku (10 min from Center-Minami Stn.), ☏ +81 45-942-2626. The restaurant serves okonomiyaki and monjayaki.
- Rasuta (らすた), Kouhoku-ku, Hiyoshihon-cho 1-5-41 (3 min from Hiyoshi Stn), ☏ +81 45-565-1608. 11:30-01:30. Ramen restaurant. Tonkotsu ramen with thick noodles is recommended. ¥800.
- Linden Baum (リンデンバウム), Kouhoku-ku, Shimoda-cho 4-7-5 (15 min from Hiyoshi Stn by bus), ☏ +81 45-562-3928. 09:30-20:00. Restaurant known for its sweet baumkuchens, cakes, and roll cakes.
- Maruya (マルヤ), Kokuhoku-ku, Hiyoshihon-cho 1-19-2 (1 min from Hiyoshi Stn), ☏ +81 45-563-8108. 07:30-18:00, closed M. Take-out shop selling Japanese sweets and sushi rolls.
- Shin-Sekai, Kohoku ward, Kikuna 6-1-8, ☏ +81 45-433-6626. A stall near Kikuna station selling Taiyaki. ¥130-170.
Mid-range
[edit]
- For Chinese food, head to Chinatown (中華街 Chūkagai), which has over 200 Chinese restaurants. Snacks are sold on the streets, but most restaurants in the area are quite expensive (expect to pay ¥1500 for a decent lunch) and the food has been toned down to suit the Japanese palate. One of the most popular foods in Chinatown is Nikuman (肉まん nikuman), or bread filled with pork and vegetables, which are sold by dozens of stores and vendors. Chinatown is the terminus of the Minato Mirai 21 line.
- Yokohama Daihanten (横浜大飯店), 154 Yamashitachou Naka-ku, 6 min from Ishikawachou Stn and 10 min from Motomachi Cyukagai Stn, +81 45-641-0001, 11:00-21:30 (until 20:10/last order 20:50), stand 10:00-21:30. It is all you can eat style Chinese food spot with no time limit. It has 4 floors, B1 to 3F. ¥2480, 9–12 years ¥1480, 4–8 years ¥1029.
- Shinyokohama Ramen Museum (新横浜ラーメン博物館 Shin-Yokohama rāmen hakubutsukan), Shin-Yokohama 2-14-21 (5 min walk from Shin-Yokohama Stn (on the #1 subway line).). Daily 11:00-23:00. Paradise for noodle lovers, but not just because of the exhibits of the history of instant ramen noodles. The centerpiece here is the basement, which contains a recreation of 1950s-era Tokyo done in incredible detail, complete with operating branches of a rotating selection of ramen joints from around Japan and the world. Expect to queue, but if you really love your noodles, it's worth it. Small taster bowls (¥600) are available in addition to regular sizes. Adults ¥310.
- Chano-ma, Akarenga Soko Bldg 2. Cafe with Japanese and Italian fare. There is a large floor about 60 cm up where you can lie down with blankets and some pillows like a living room.
- Tachibana, 5-13 Hakuraku, Kanagawa-ku (Near Higashihakuraku station in Kanagawa). Wanko-soba restaurant, which are Japanese noodles served in refillable small bowls.
- Manchin-Ro, 156 Yamashitacho, Naka-ku (take the Keihin Tohoku Line and get off at the Ishikawa Stn, 5 min walk). Cantonese food restaurant with over 100 years of history in Yokohama's Chinatown. During lunch time it is run as a kind of self-service restaurant. ¥1500 for a meal.
- Daidai-ya, 2−3−8 Minato-mirai, Nishi-ku (1 min from Minato-Mirai Stn), ☏ +81 45-228-5035. Su-Th 11:00-13:00, 17:00-23:00; F Sa 17:00-23:00. This restaurant serves creative dishes, mixing Japanese and Western foods. In addition to the food, the view is very beautiful at night. You can see Cosmo World and the Cosmo Clock (a Ferris wheel) illuminated. By the window, there are some seats for couples - good for dates. Reservations are recommended for these seats. Lunch ¥1000, dinner ¥4000.
- Sun road, Kohoku ward, Kikuna 6-1-11, ☏ +81 45-431-2576. W-M 11:30-15:00, 17:00-21:30. A small Western-style restaurant near Kikuna Station. Syogayaki - ginger-flavored slices of grilled pork - is especially recommended. The owner/cook is very frank. ~¥1,000-3,000.
- Nagomi, Kohoku ward, Kikuna 6-21-10, ☏ +81 45-431-7539. M-Sa 11:30-14:00, 18:00-20:00. A very small restaurant serving tempura The restaurant uses seasonal seafood and vegetables. Try the "Ten-Don", tempura donburi. Lunch ~¥600-1,400, dinner ¥1,000-3,000.
- Tonkatsu Sakurai. Daily 11:00-21:30. Tonkatsu restaurant with some mixed Japanese and Western dishes. No English is spoken. You can eat as much salad and bowl of rice as you want. ~¥1500.
Splurge
[edit]- 1 Landmark Tower. Multi-use tower with Japanese, Chinese and French restaurants on the 68th floor with unparalleled views of Yokohama and Tokyo. But the luxury doesn't come cheap; dinner at any of these restaurants is around ¥10,000.
- Seryna (瀬里奈), 5-70 Bentendori, Naka-ku (Between Kannai and Bashamichi Stations, in front of Golds Gym). Steaks served Japanese teppanyaki-style, but set inside of a turn-of-the-century Western atmosphere. Sweeping views of Bashamichi's historic buildings and MM21. Lunch starting at ¥2000 with dinner jumping to around ¥12,000.
Drink
[edit]- All ¥500 bar GIMME!GIMME!GIMME!, 1-45 Noge-cho, Naka-ku,231-0064. A bar with drinks priced at ¥500.
- Summer brings the beer gardens : both Luminè Department Store (near Yokohama Stn) and the Star Hotel sport the rooftop variety, or there's a real garden next to Yamate Jubankan.
- Benny's Place, Ishikawacho 1-25 Mitsubo Bldg 2F (just off the big intersection in Motomachi), ☏ +81 45-671-0818. American-style sports bar complete with baseball memorabilia, cable TV, darts, and a friendly owner who'll gladly tell you about his days in the U.S. Navy at "Yah-kohska". And the biggest hamburgers served this side of the Pacific.
- Downbeat, Miyamoto Bldg 2F 1-43 Hanabusacho, Naku-ku 231-0052 Sakuragicho. Another jazz bar, but this one features an extensive record collection, a "record menu" and a foreigner friendly staff. Request a song out of the menu and the owner will put it in the queue.
- Hogs Head, Naka-ku Tokiwa-cho 6-77, No 2 Hiyoshi Bldg 1F (中区常盤町6-77第2日吉ビル１F), ☏ +81 45 641-4746. If you like the Windjammer, you will like this Irsh/American-themed bar too. The pub is trying hard to look as Irish/American as can be and is doing a very good job. The bartenders know over 200 cocktails and the “financial damage” per drink hovers around ¥1000. Basic food, pasta, pizza and snacks are also available. Unique about the bar is its size, which can be classed as rather large in the area of Bashamichi, Kannai, where small, tiny sized bars are common. There is no live band, but the music jamming out of the speaker systems throughout the bar is Jazz, and the bar is very quiet and emphasis is placed on enjoying your drink. Reservations for large groups.
- Oriental Café, 2-16-4 Minamisaiwai, Nishi-ku (Yokohama Stn, 10-15 min walk along the Shintama River, diagonally across the “Hamabowl” Bowling hall.), ☏ +81 45 311-4640. A small diner which plays house music continuously and the interior unique décor is in line with the music it plays.
- The Tavern, 2-14 Minami Saiwai cho, Nishi Ku (from Yokohama Stn, head left until you come to Daiei supermarket - it's under McDonald's), ☏ +81 45 322-9727. This, the first British pub/restaurant in Yokohama, is the regular watering-hole for expats and foreign business travelers who come back to Yokohama regularly. About 70% of the clientele is Japanese, and is single-lady friendly! When you enter, it's like walking into a pub in England, and the large selection of food and imported draught beers help keep the one of the busiest night-spots in central Yokohama. Fish & chips is highly recommended.
- Windjammer, Toraku Bldg 1F, Yamashita-cho, Naka-ku, ☏ +81 45-662 3966. Su-Th 17:30-01:00, F Sa 18:00-02:00. A classy jazz bar on the edges of Chinatown run by an American expat who loves to put on a show for his customers. Bands play downstairs most nights and there's a large screen for those on the second floor showing the action below. The decor is decadent and there's a chocolate fountain with fruit for dipping. Music cover ¥500, drinks from ¥800.
Sleep
[edit]Budget
[edit]- Yokohama Hostel Village, SanWa Bldg 1F, 3-11-2 Matsukage-cho, Naka-ku (5 min walk from Ishikawa-cho JR Stn), ☏ +81 45-663-3696. Inexpensive accommodation. Single ¥3000, small LB apartments ¥4300, no deposit is needed and you get your own kitchen and bathroom.
- Guest House Kanalian, 16-5 Daimachi, Kanagawa-ku, ☏ +81 45-313-6442. 7 min walk from Yokohama Station West Exit. Beautiful handmade wooden house, really impressive and the host Lee is extremely hospital. Expect to chat over some beers with him. Dormitory rooms 1 night ¥2000 per person, 1 week ¥13,000 per person.
Mid-range
[edit]- Hotel Associa Shin-yokohama, 2-100-45 Shin-yokohama, Kohoku-ku, Shin-Yokohama Stn, ☏ +81 45-475-0011. This is on the upper floors of Cubic Plaza Shin-yokohama. This hotel is connected to Shin-yokohama Stn, so there are some rooms which you can see the Shinkansen coming and going all the time. Also, the furnishings of those rooms are associated with Shinkansen. The moderate twins are from ¥18,000.
- Hotel Monterey Yokohama. Is in Yamashita Park and it has view of Minatomirai and Bay Bridge. 6-1 Yamashita-cho, Naka-ku. 3 min from Motomachi-Cyukagai Stn. 3 min walk to Chinatown and doll house (Ningyou-no-ie). Standard doubles from ¥5300.
- Shin-Yokohama Prince Hotel, 3-4 Shin Yokohama, Kohoko-ku, ☏ +81 45-471-1111. .In the cylindrical skyscraper right outside Shin-Yokohama Stn, where the Shinkansen (新幹線) calls). A rather quiet corner of Yokohama, it is well connected by the Yokohama Line (横浜線), or the municipal subway (市営地下鉄) and various municipal city buses (市営バス). 10 min away it is an ideal place to stay with mediocre quality whilst saving money. The Prince Hotel is one of the largest chains of hotels in Japan, run by the behemoth company Seibu. Foreigners registering as Prince Club members on the hotel website enjoy additional reductions, but only if you register and apply prior to arriving in the country. ¥11,000-19,000, depending on room class and number of people.
- Toyoko Inn Yokohama Sakuragi-cho, Honcho 6-55, Naka-ku, ☏ +81 45-671-1045. 5 min walk from Sakuragicho Stn) Their slogan is "Offering peace of mind at a reasonable price" which is more often than not true. Perhaps a slightly less fancy Japanese version of Holiday Inn. Numerous locations throughout Yokohama aside from this one. Singles ¥6800, doubles/twins from ¥8800 (max 2 guests).
- Yokohama Isezakichō Washington Hotel, 5-33 Choja-machi, Naka-ku (Close to Isezaki-chōjamachi JR station and easy walking distance to Chinatown.), ☏ +81 45-243-7111. A serviceable but quite pricey middle of the road hotel with air conditioning and high speed internet in every room. Single ¥9200, double ¥16,300..
- Yokohama Isezaki cho Washington YGH (横浜伊勢佐木町ワシントンホテルユースゲストハウス). single: ¥4500 for HI members, ¥5100 for others.
- Yokohama International Seamen's Hall, 8-4 Yamashita-cho, Naka-ku, ☏ +81 45-681-2141. Nautical theme that caters to men in the merchant marines. The rooms are very large, clean, and comfortable. 1 block away from the Motomachi-Chinatown Stn and 2 blocks away from the gates of Chinatown. Internet free (20mbps down, 1.5mbps up). Singles ¥7455.
- Sotetsu Fresa Inn Yokohama-Totsuka, 16-8 Totsuka-cho, Totsuka-ku, ☏ +81 45-860-2031. 2 min walk from Totsuka JR and Yokohama Municipal Subway Station. Single room ¥7400, Internet Reservation ¥5500.
Splurge
[edit]The three main hotels in the Minato Mirai area are the ultimate in local luxury, and occasionally offer their rooms on sale at bargain prices.
- 1 InterContinental Yokohama Grand, 1-1-1 Minatomirai, Nishi-Ku, ☏ +81-45-2232222, [email protected]. One of the most recognizable features in the Yokohama skyline – it's the sail-shaped building near the Landmark Tower. Singles for ¥35,000, doubles for ¥43,000.
- Yokohama Royal Park Hotel (http://www.yrph.com/en/). Takes up the mid-section of the Landmark Tower. Singles for ¥31,500, doubles for ¥36,750 Good Early Booking deals available on Japanese website..
- 2 Yokohama Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers, 1-3-23 Kitasaiwai, Nishi-Ku, ☏ +81 45-411-1111, fax: +81 45-411-1343. 1 min walk from Yokohama Station.Sheraton in Yokohama beautiful bay. Singles for ¥26,000, doubles for ¥36,000.
Stay safe
[edit]While Yokohama, like most of Japan, is very safe, the Kotobuki-cho area is one of Japan's largest slums with a large number of mostly male homeless people, and numerous yakuza-run businesses. While violent crime is still generally rare, sexual harassment tends to be more common that elsewhere, so women in particular might want to avoid visiting that area alone.
Cope
[edit]Consulates
[edit]
Romania, 18-12, Sannotani, Honmoku, Naka-ku, ☏ +81 45 6284155, fax: +81 45 6284195. This Honorary Consulate does not provide consular services. Romanian citizens in need of assistance should contact the embassy in Tokyo.
Go next
[edit]| Routes through Yokohama |
| Nagoya ← Odawara ← | W  E
|
→ Shinagawa → Tokyo |
| Shizuoka ← Ōfuna ← | W  E
|
→ Kawasaki → Tokyo |
| Shinagawa ← Aomonoyokocho ← Kawasaki ← | E  S
|
→ Yokosuka → Misakiguchi |
| END ← | W  E
|
→ Den'en-Chofu → Jiyugaoka → Shibuya |
| Shizuoka ← Atsugi ← | W  E
|
→ Kawasaki → Tokyo |
| END ← | W  E
|
→ Haneda → Rinkai Fukutoshin → Urayasu |
| END ← | W  E
|
→ Kawasaki → in to  → Tokyo
|
| Yokosuka ← Zushi ← | S  N
|
→ END |
| Yokosuka ← | S  N
|
→ Sagamihara → Hachioji → Kawagoe |
| Hakone ← Odawara ← Fujisawa ← | W  E
|
→ Kawasaki → Tokyo |