[Yokohama girls’ trip] Top 10 recommended tourist spots

Yokohama, a popular tourist destination offering various ways to enjoy your time. With its Instagram-worthy streets, stunning port night views, delicious gourmet options in Chinatown, trendy shopping malls, and more, here are some must-visit spots in Yokohama that are perfect for a girls' trip with friends who share your vibe!

Reasons why Yokohama is recommended for girls' trips

Yokohama, one of Japan's iconic tourist destinations, offers plenty of spots perfect for a girls' trip. From breathtaking night views of the harbor and mouthwatering street food in Chinatown to the exotic charm of its Western-style buildings, Yokohama is filled with attractions that women are sure to enjoy.

In addition to these classics, Yokohama also boasts trendy spots like shopping venues, rose gardens, interactive experiences with animals, and photogenic destinations like the Strawberry Park. A girls-only trip is the perfect opportunity to make the most of these unique locations!

1. Yamate Western Houses

The Yamate Western Houses are a must-visit spot guaranteed to excite any group of friends. These seven historic Western-style houses, used during the foreign settlement era, are open to the public free of charge. Visitors can explore luxurious dining rooms and parlors, imagining life in Western culture during that time.

The gardens bloom with seasonal flowers, and from the hilltop, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Yokohama. Every corner offers a photogenic scene, often used for professional photo shoots. The “Diplomat’s House” and “Yamate 111 Ban-Kan” also have attached cafes where you can savor handmade cakes and light meals.

If the weather is nice, enjoy a leisurely tea time on the terrace for an elegant experience.

2. Harbor View Park (Minato-no-Mieru Oka Park)

As the name suggests, this park offers stunning views of Yokohama’s harbor, embodying the essence of the city. The rose garden, renovated in 2016 as the "English Rose Garden," is now a well-known spot for viewing roses, especially during spring and autumn.

In spring, the park is also adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms. Literature enthusiasts should check out the "Jiro Osaragi Memorial Museum" and "Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature" within the park. Though the stairs leading to the park can be challenging, the sense of accomplishment and panoramic views make the effort worthwhile. It's also an ideal post-meal walking destination.

3. MARINE & WALK YOKOHAMA

MARINE & WALK YOKOHAMA, an outdoor shopping complex, opened in March 2016 near the Red Brick Warehouse.

Boasting a chic, foreign-inspired streetscape, it’s a delightful spot for window shopping and soaking in the ambiance. The mall features trendy shopping options, including boutique stores, apparel outlets, general goods shops, cafes, and restaurants making their debut in the Kanto region.

You can also savor a meal with a scenic view of the sea, making it an ideal destination for a girls’ night out.

4. Bashamichi

For a stroll through a nostalgic streetscape, Bashamichi is a must-visit. Lined with Western-style buildings, it exudes a unique foreign charm.

One of Bashamichi's standout features is its gas lamps, which were first lit in Japan in 1872 and installed here among other locations. Adding to its historical significance, the street boasts a monument commemorating the birthplace of modern street trees. It's said that the first such trees in Japan—willows and pines—were planted along Bashamichi.

The area is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of History and the Nippon Yusen History Museum. Their exteriors alone are worth admiring. Why not take a step back in time and immerse yourself in Yokohama's rich history?

5. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

No Yokohama girls' trip is complete without a visit to the iconic "Red Brick Warehouse." The red brick buildings blend perfectly with the Minato Mirai atmosphere, making them ideal for photos. At night, the structures are illuminated with orange lights, creating an even more romantic vibe.

There are two buildings: the first serves as a cultural facility hosting various events, while the second is a charming shopping complex filled with trendy shops, accessory stores, souvenir shops, and cafes. The warehouse also has numerous restaurants and cafes that let you savor Yokohama's culinary delights. It's a must-visit for creating unforgettable memories in Yokohama.

6. Yamashita Park

Popular as a romantic date spot, "Yamashita Park" is also an excellent destination for a girls' outing. Established in 1930, it is one of the most historic parks in the Minato Mirai area and offers stunning views of Bay Bridge and the bustling harbor. The romantic night scenery makes it enjoyable during both day and evening.

The park features numerous monuments, including the "Little Girl with Red Shoes" statue and the "Seagull Sailor" monument, both of which are must-sees for visitors to Yokohama. Roses bloom in spring and autumn, but colorful flowers can be admired year-round.

Bring along street food from Chinatown or a packed lunch, and relax on a bench while enjoying the beautiful flowers and the sea.

7. Orbi Yokohama [Closed]

Orbi Yokohama, a facility developed by Sega, offered a multisensory experience of nature and animals. Among its popular features was the "Cat Paradise," where visitors could interact with many cats, as well as rare animals like capybaras and six-banded armadillos.

The facility also included a theater showcasing immersive, stunning nature visuals. A perfect spot for animal lovers seeking relaxation.

Note: Orbi Yokohama permanently closed in December 2020.

8. Yokohama Chinatown

As a quintessential Yokohama attraction, "Yokohama Chinatown" is a must-visit for food lovers. Its two main streets, "Chukagai Odori" and "Kanteibyo Street," are perfect for first-time visitors to explore.

Enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine, all-you-can-eat options, souvenirs, and even amusements. Street food, including buns, dumplings, shumai, and shaved ice, is a crowd favorite, as are Chinatown’s unique desserts. Among the most popular treats for women is the "Panda Bun," a cute and Instagram-worthy snack that’s almost too adorable to eat!

9. Yokohama English Garden

Elevate the mood of your girls' trip with a visit to the "Yokohama English Garden." Located about 10 minutes by free shuttle bus from Yokohama Station, this 6,600-square-meter garden features 1,800 varieties of roses and over 3,000 plant species.

In spring, enjoy the 50-meter-long Rose Tunnel adorned with climbing roses, creating a fairy-tale-like atmosphere. Visitors can admire various plants year-round and even purchase seedlings. The garden also includes a cafe offering rose-themed sweets, rare fruit teas, and rose lemonade—delights unique to this spot. A visit to this garden will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

10. Yokohama Strawberry Park

TOKYO STRAWBERRY PARK is a trendy and highly photogenic destination in Yokohama that has been drawing attention.

What sets it apart is the ability to enjoy strawberry picking year-round. Conveniently located just a 15-minute bus ride from Keikyu Tsurumi Station, it’s easily accessible even without a car.

The park’s pink-themed world is picture-perfect at every turn. Highlights include a whimsical souvenir shop reminiscent of a fairy-tale candy store and a charming cafe with pink tables adorned with strawberry motifs, radiating an overload of cuteness.

Strawberry-themed gifts are especially popular as souvenirs. Due to its popularity, reservations are essential, particularly on weekends. If you're a strawberry enthusiast, this delightful spot is not to be missed!

Summary

Yokohama is not just enjoyable to explore but also incredibly photogenic, offering shopping, gourmet dining, stunning night views, rose gardens, and a picturesque harbor—making it an ideal destination for a girls' trip.

You can immerse yourself in sightseeing and shopping, or unwind with the company of animals, lush greenery, and delicious sweets. Its close proximity to the city center makes it perfect for a day trip, so don’t miss the chance to experience all it has to offer!