Yokohama Minato Mirai
Futuristic Waterfront Where Past Meets Future
Minato Mirai 21 was conceived in the 1980s as a massive urban redevelopment project transforming Yokohama's decaying industrial waterfront and shipyards into a modern city center. The area, which had historically served as Yokohama's industrial heart with major shipbuilding facilities, had declined as heavy industry moved elsewhere. The ambitious plan aimed to create a futuristic urban district combining business, commerce, culture, and leisure by the 21st century - hence the '21' in the name.
Development began in earnest in the late 1980s with major landmarks opening through the 1990s: Yokohama Museum of Art (1989), Landmark Tower (1993 - Japan's tallest building for 19 years), and Queen's Square shopping complex (1997). The district was built on reclaimed land and redeveloped industrial sites, incorporating preserved historical elements like the Nippon Maru sailing ship and brick warehouses. The Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, which served as the world's tallest when it opened in 1989, became an iconic symbol. By the 2000s, Minato Mirai had achieved its vision, becoming Yokohama's new downtown and one of Japan's most successful waterfront regeneration projects.
Today, Minato Mirai stands as a model of urban renewal, attracting over 60 million annual visitors to its shopping centers, museums, hotels, convention facilities, and entertainment venues. The district's skyline, dominated by Landmark Tower and illuminated by millions of LED lights at night, represents modern Japan's embrace of futurism while respecting maritime heritage. The area hosts major events including New Year's celebrations, Christmas illuminations, and summer festivals, cementing its status as Yokohama's cultural and commercial heart.
Key Highlights
- Landmark Tower - 296m tall with 273m observation deck (Yokohama Sky Garden)
- Cosmo Clock 21 - Giant Ferris wheel with bay views
- Cup Noodles Museum - Interactive food culture museum
- Red Brick Warehouse - Historic buildings with shops and restaurants
- Nippon Maru sailing ship museum
- Spectacular nighttime illumination and waterfront views
Access Information
Location
Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0012, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Minato Mirai Station (Minatomirai Line) - Direct access
- • Sakuragicho Station (JR Negishi/Keihin-Tohoku Line) - 5 min walk
Opening Hours
Public areas accessible 24/7; Landmark Tower Sky Garden: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (last entry 8:30 PM); Shops typically 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Museums vary
Admission Fee
Walking the area: Free; Landmark Tower Sky Garden: Adults ¥1,000, Children ¥500; Cosmo Clock Ferris wheel: ¥900; Cup Noodles Museum: ¥500; Other attractions vary
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shibuya)
Take Tokyu Toyoko Line Express directly to Minato Mirai Station (35-40 minutes, ¥340). Through service makes this the most convenient route. Trains run every few minutes throughout the day.
40 minutes
From Tokyo (Tokyo/Shinagawa)
Take JR Tokaido/Keihin-Tohoku Line to Sakuragicho Station (25-30 minutes, ¥480), walk 5 minutes through covered walkway to Landmark Plaza. Frequent trains with good connections.
35 minutes
From Yokohama Station
Take Minatomirai Line one stop to Minato Mirai Station (3 minutes, ¥180). Or walk 15-20 minutes along waterfront promenade - pleasant in good weather.
5 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Nighttime Illumination Spectacle
Minato Mirai transforms after dark into a glittering wonderland. The Landmark Tower, Cosmo Clock Ferris wheel, and surrounding buildings illuminate in coordinated LED displays. Best viewing: from waterfront promenade, Red Brick Warehouse area, or Osanbashi Pier across the bay. Winter illuminations (November-February) add millions of Christmas lights. The reflection of lights in the bay water creates magical atmosphere. Visit Sky Garden at sunset to watch city transition from day to night. Photography from Osanbashi Pier captures full skyline with reflections.
Best Photo Locations
Landmark Tower from Red Brick Warehouse plaza offers classic skyline shots. Cosmo Clock Ferris wheel photographed from Kishamichi Promenade at dusk. The elevated Sky Garden (69th floor) provides 360-degree city and Mt. Fuji views. Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal's free rooftop deck captures full waterfront panorama. The brick warehouses make attractive foregrounds. Golden hour (4-6 PM) provides warm light. Blue hour (6-7 PM) captures illumination starting. Bring wide-angle lens for skyline shots.
Suggested Itinerary
Half-day visit: Arrive afternoon (2-3 PM), visit Cup Noodles Museum or museums of choice (2 hours), explore Red Brick Warehouse shopping (1 hour), ride Cosmo Clock at sunset (30 min), visit Sky Garden for night views (1 hour), dinner at waterfront restaurant. Full-day visit: Add shopping at Queen's Square or Landmark Plaza, Nippon Maru ship museum, waterfront walk to Yamashita Park, Chinatown nearby. The area easily fills 4-8 hours depending on interests. Weekdays less crowded than weekends.
Family Attractions
Cup Noodles Museum lets kids design their own cup noodle packaging and learn food history (¥500, 90 minutes, advance booking recommended). Anpanman Children's Museum features the popular Japanese character (¥2,200). The waterfront promenade is stroller-friendly. Cosmo Clock Ferris wheel thrills children with 15-minute ride 112m high. Large green spaces like Rinko Park allow kids to run. Multiple family restaurants with kids' menus. Nursing rooms and family facilities in all major malls.
Dining Options
Hundreds of restaurants offer every cuisine: Japanese, Chinese, Italian, French, casual chains, and upscale dining. Red Brick Warehouse has waterfront restaurants with views. Landmark Tower has floors of restaurants. Queen's Square basement food court offers budget options. Bills restaurant (Australian) famous for ricotta pancakes. Multiple ramen shops, sushi restaurants, and izakaya. Prices range from ¥1,000 food court meals to ¥10,000+ fine dining. Waterfront dinner with illumination views particularly romantic.
Waterfront Walking Route
A continuous waterfront promenade connects Minato Mirai to Yamashita Park and Chinatown (3km, 45-minute walk). Start at Red Brick Warehouse, walk past Cosmo Clock and Landmark Tower, cross Kishamichi Promenade (historic iron bridge), continue to Osanbashi Pier, then Yamashita Park. The entire route is flat, scenic, and accessible. Multiple cafes and rest areas along the way. This walk combines Minato Mirai's modernity with Yokohama's historic port areas.
Access & Navigation
The district is highly pedestrian-friendly with underground and elevated walkways connecting major buildings. From Sakuragicho Station, follow the moving walkway to Landmark Plaza without going outside. The Minatomirai Line provides direct underground access to Queen's Square and Landmark Tower. Parking available at all major complexes (¥500-600/hour) but expensive for long stays - public transit recommended. Free WiFi throughout the area. Download Minato Mirai area map or use smartphone navigation.
Combining Yokohama Attractions
Minato Mirai combines perfectly with other Yokohama destinations: Chinatown (20-minute walk or one train stop), Yamashita Park waterfront, Motomachi shopping street, Sankei-en Garden (25 min taxi), and the historic Yamate foreign residences district. A full day in Yokohama might include: morning at Sankei-en Garden, afternoon at Minato Mirai, evening in Chinatown for dinner. Yokohama makes an excellent Tokyo day trip or overnight getaway with waterfront hotels offering romantic city views.
FAQ
What are the main attractions in Yokohama Minato Mirai?
Key attractions include Landmark Tower with its Sky Garden observatory, Cosmo World amusement park featuring the giant Ferris wheel, Cup Noodles Museum, Red Brick Warehouse shopping complex, and Yamashita Park waterfront promenade. The area also offers modern shopping malls like Queen's Square, numerous restaurants, and harbor cruises. The entire waterfront district is pedestrian-friendly and interconnected.
How long should I spend in Minato Mirai?
A half-day (4-5 hours) covers the main highlights including the Landmark Tower observatory, waterfront walk, and shopping. A full day (8-10 hours) allows time for museums, amusement park rides, dining, and evening illuminations. Many visitors come for both day and night experiences as the area transforms beautifully after sunset with harbor lights and the Ferris wheel.
What is the best time to visit Minato Mirai?
Late afternoon into evening is ideal to experience both daylight attractions and the spectacular night illuminations. The waterfront lights up around sunset with the Ferris wheel, Landmark Tower, and harbor creating a romantic atmosphere. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for walking outdoors.
How do I get to Minato Mirai from Tokyo?
Take the Tokyu Toyoko Line from Shibuya directly to Minato Mirai Station (about 35-40 minutes). Alternatively, JR lines from Tokyo to Yokohama Station, then transfer to the Minatomirai Line (2 minutes to Minato Mirai Station). Total journey from central Tokyo is 40-50 minutes. The area is easily accessible and well-connected to Tokyo's train network.
Is the Landmark Tower Sky Garden worth visiting?
Yes, the 69th floor Sky Garden offers panoramic 360-degree views from 273 meters high. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and the entire Yokohama Bay. The high-speed elevator reaches the top in just 40 seconds. Admission is 1,000 yen for adults. Sunset and night views are particularly stunning with city lights spreading below.
What is there to do at Cosmo World?
Cosmo World is a free-admission amusement park where you pay per ride. The iconic Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel (900 yen) offers panoramic harbor views. Other attractions include roller coasters, carnival games, and family rides. It's especially beautiful at night when illuminated. Budget 2,000-4,000 yen for a few rides. Open until 9-10pm depending on season.
What can I do at the Red Brick Warehouse?
The historic Red Brick Warehouse (Akarenga) houses boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, and event spaces. Shop for unique souvenirs, crafts, and fashion items. The outdoor plaza hosts seasonal events, beer gardens in summer, and Christmas markets in winter. Waterfront views and photo opportunities abound. It's free to enter and browse, with shops open until 8pm typically.
Are there dining options in Minato Mirai?
Excellent dining variety from casual food courts to upscale restaurants. Landmark Tower has restaurants on upper floors with views. Red Brick Warehouse offers waterfront dining. Queen's Square and other malls have extensive food options. Harbor-view restaurants serve seafood, Italian, Japanese, and international cuisines. Budget 1,000-3,000 yen for lunch, 2,000-6,000 yen for dinner with views.
Is Minato Mirai suitable for children?
Very family-friendly! Cosmo World amusement park, Cup Noodles Museum with hands-on exhibits, Anpanman Museum, spacious Yamashita Park, and safe pedestrian walkways make it ideal for families. Many restaurants have kids' menus. The area is stroller-accessible with clean public facilities. Children enjoy the Ferris wheel and watching ships in the harbor.
Can I take a harbor cruise in Minato Mirai?
Yes, several cruise options depart from Minato Mirai and Yamashita Park piers. Short 40-minute bay cruises cost around 1,500 yen, while longer sunset and dinner cruises range from 3,000-10,000 yen. The Marine Shuttle offers hop-on-hop-off service to nearby areas. Cruises provide unique perspectives of Yokohama's skyline and bay bridge.
What is the Cup Noodles Museum?
An interactive museum dedicated to instant ramen history and founder Momofuku Ando. Admission is 500 yen for adults. The main attraction is creating your own custom cup noodles by choosing soup and toppings (400 yen extra). A hands-on noodle-making workshop is also available (reservation required). Fun for all ages and takes about 90 minutes to explore.
Is Minato Mirai wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Excellent accessibility throughout the district. Wide sidewalks, elevators in all buildings, barrier-free access to most attractions, and accessible restrooms are standard. The waterfront promenade is completely flat and paved. Landmark Tower, museums, and shopping centers all accommodate wheelchairs. This is one of Japan's most accessible tourist areas.
What are the illumination highlights at night?
The giant Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel creates a spectacular LED light show. Landmark Tower and surrounding buildings illuminate the skyline. The harbor walkway has romantic lighting. Red Brick Warehouse courtyard features artistic lighting. The entire waterfront transforms into a glittering nightscape. Winter adds special illumination events and decorations making it particularly magical.
Can I see Mount Fuji from Minato Mirai?
Yes, on clear days, especially in winter months (November-February), Mount Fuji is visible from the Sky Garden observatory and waterfront areas. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best visibility. Summer months have haze making Fuji sightings rare. The combination of harbor, cityscape, and Fuji creates iconic photo opportunities from the Landmark Tower.
Are there shopping options in the area?
Extensive shopping from luxury brands to casual fashion. Landmark Plaza, Queen's Square, and Colette Mare offer multi-level malls with international and Japanese brands. Red Brick Warehouse has unique boutiques and craft shops. MARK IS Minato Mirai combines shopping with entertainment. Prices range from budget to high-end. Tax-free shopping available at major stores.
What is Yamashita Park?
A waterfront park stretching along Yokohama Bay, perfect for leisurely strolls with harbor views. Rose gardens bloom in spring and autumn. The historic Hikawa Maru ship is permanently docked as a museum. Street performers, benches facing the water, and proximity to Chinatown make it a relaxing spot. Free to enter and open 24 hours.
How crowded is Minato Mirai?
Moderately crowded on weekends and holidays, especially in good weather. The area is spacious enough to not feel overwhelming even with crowds. Christmas season and summer evenings see peak visitors. Weekday visits offer more comfortable exploration. Popular attractions like the Ferris wheel may have 20-40 minute waits on busy days.
Can I combine Minato Mirai with other Yokohama attractions?
Absolutely! Yokohama Chinatown is a 15-minute walk or one train stop away. Sankeien Garden is 30 minutes by bus. The historic Motomachi shopping street and Yamashita Park connect to Minato Mirai via waterfront walkway. Many visitors spend a full day exploring multiple Yokohama districts. The SeaBass water bus connects to Yokohama Station and other areas.
Are there hotels in Minato Mirai?
Yes, several hotels ranging from luxury to budget. InterContinental, Royal Park Hotel in Landmark Tower, and Yokohama Bay Hotel offer high-end stays with bay views. Mid-range hotels like Navios and Richmond are also available. Staying overnight lets you enjoy both day and night atmospheres. Many hotels offer packages with attraction tickets.
What should I not miss in Minato Mirai?
Don't miss the Landmark Tower Sky Garden for panoramic views, a ride on the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel especially at night, strolling the waterfront promenade at sunset, visiting Red Brick Warehouse for shopping and atmosphere, and experiencing the nighttime illuminations. If time allows, take a harbor cruise and visit the Cup Noodles Museum for a unique interactive experience.
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