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Discover Yokohama with The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu

  • japansan
  • Aug 15, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Aug 22, 2025

Image Credits: Kanagawa Prefecture

The Ideal Gateway to Japan

Just 30 minutes from Shibuya and 25 minutes from Haneda, Yokohama offers the perfect start—or grand finale—to a Japan itinerary. With seaside charm, cultural depth, and open space to breathe, it’s especially appealing for families, boomers, and anyone looking for a slower, more spacious take on the Tokyo experience.


And the best base to explore it all? The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu.


Why Yokohama? The Quaint Mega-City

Often overshadowed by its big-city neighbour, Yokohama packs an impressive punch—with world-class attractions, walkable charm, and panoramic bay views, all within easy reach.

Highlights in the Minato Mirai district include:

  • Landmark Tower – Japan’s 3rd tallest building with stunning views of Mt. Fuji

  • Yokohama Air Cabin – A sleek, photogenic cable car ride across the harbour

  • Cup Noodles Museum – Part history, part hands-on fun, ideal for families

  • Chinatown – Japan’s largest, buzzing with flavour and photo ops

  • Yamashita Park – A scenic waterfront stroll with poignant history


Chinatown: Image Courtesy of Kanagawa Prefecture

The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu


Space, Comfort & Seamless Access

Whether recovering from a long flight or wrapping up a whirlwind tour, this hotel is your calm in the urban storm—spacious, accessible, and thoughtfully designed.


  • Bayfront balconies offer rare open-air views of the harbour and the iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel

  • Direct access to Minato Mirai Station and Queen’s Square shopping mall

  • Easy day trips to Kamakura, Hakone, and Tokyo



Rooms are family-friendly with space to stretch out, and the hotel’s breakfast options cater to every taste—from Maison Kayser breads and made-to-order omelets at Café Tosca to traditional Japanese morning sets at Oshima Restaurant (weekends and holidays only).


The hotel also features:


  • Indoor pool, sauna, and jacuzzi—perfect for unwinding

  • Bay Club Floor—elevated views and exclusive lounge access with dedicated services like check-in, breakfast, tea, and evening cocktails in a refined setting.

  • Direct access to Queen’s Square Yokohama shopping mall with family-friendly dining and familiar Western options



Immersive Cultural Experiences in Yokohama

For culturally curious travellers, Yokohama offers more than just cityscapes—it's a gateway to Japan’s past, present, and creative spirit. Here are three standout experiences curated for deeper connection and discovery:


1. Yokohama Origins Tour

Step into the story of Japan’s international awakening. When Yokohama opened its port in 1859, it became the nation’s window to the world—a place where East and West collided, for better or worse.

Led by longtime resident and historian Glenn Scoggins, this tour uncovers the city’s pivotal role in shaping modern Japan, blending big-picture context with local charm. Key stops include:


  • Yokohama Archives of History – A compact, engaging museum offering insight into Yokohama’s earliest—and most defining—decades.

  • Sankeien Garden – A cultural treasure showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and garden design, relocated from across the country by visionary entrepreneur Sankei Hara, who helped establish Yokohama as a creative and cultural hub.

    Image courtesy of Sankeien Garden

2. Contemporary Arts & Urban Culture Tour

Image Credits: Japan-san


Explore the creative pulse of Yokohama with local guide Danelle, who leads this deep-dive into the city’s grassroots art scene and its role in urban renewal.

Highlights include:


  • BankART Private Tour – Go behind the scenes with the bilingual director of this nonprofit, which reimagines historic buildings as dynamic arts spaces.

  • Meet the Artists of Koganecho – Once a red-light district, this riverside neighbourhood is now home to vibrant studios and galleries.

  • Noge by Night – Discover Yokohama’s retro nightlife on a walking tour through Noge Yokocho, hopping between photogenic izakayas and getting a true taste of local flavour—minus the tourist crowds.

    Images Credits: Alexander O. Smith

Cherry Blossom River Cruise


In late March and April, the Ookagawa River becomes one of Yokohama’s best alternative cherry blossom spots. The riverside comes alive as petals blanket the water and locals gather for hanami celebrations along the banks. The most memorable way to enjoy this seasonal spectacle is by taking a cruise along the river.

Image Credits: Kanagawa Prefecture

Private Cruise Options include:

  • Yokohama Bay Cruise with Geisha Performance – Charter a small yacht for an evening sail through the port, accompanied by a traditional geisha performance.

  • Yakatabune Cruise – A traditional-style boat transformed into a festive, sakura-themed venue, perfect for larger groups.


For more information on The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu, please contact : Kazutaka Nakao, Global Sales k.nakao@tokyuhotels.co.jp

For information on the travel products featured, visit the Kanagawa Product Library or reach out to Japan-san.

 
 
 

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