Japan is a country for observation: looking at landscapes, temples and fantastic architecture are all reasons to visit, and Yokohama can offer you a little slice of everything. From some of Japan’s most scenic Shinto temples to amazing views of Mount Fuji and the Kanto region from the Landmark Tower, this city, the second largest in Japan, gives you a whole lot if you’re looking to get off the beaten path that is all things Tokyo -- and it’s only a quick train ride from central Tokyo to get there.
Once known as the “boring son” due to its suburban position next to Tokyo, Yokohama is blossoming as a futuristic, clean and modern location with an exciting arts scene.
Primarily, most of the city’s activity is centered around the Minato Mirai 21, a futuristic multi-property development on reclaimed land. The area boasts a multitude of shopping centers, restaurants, residential properties, offices, and pretty much anything the modern world has to offer, including plenty of museums, art galleries and even the Cosmo World amusement park right in the city center. Additionally, Yokohama has the country’s largest Chinatown area, a stark contrast to the wide-open spaces of Minato Mirai and in its cuisine (of which there are some great eats to be found). Don’t forget to check out the cultural center BankART 1929, the Aka Renga Souko complex on the bohemian waterfront promenade, and the central Yokohama Art Museum for some of Japan’s (and the world's) most magnificent paintings, sculptures and designs.
Talk to most foreigners or expats who work in Yokohama and they’ll tell you that it’s the place to find a whole lot of English teaching jobs. It’s also a refuge of sorts from the craziness that is Tokyo, but is still only a quick ride away if you feel like hitting the big city life. Yokohama also offers a little more room for moving around without the crowds (but that’s only when compared to Tokyo, which really isn’t a fair comparison). You can still get all your favorite stores and services (such as the fine dining around the Minato Mirai 21 area and Yokohama Station area) and, of course, essentials like Yodobashi Camera, all in one central location. There is also a fairly large expat community there since Yokohama was originally known as the first port open to foreign trade in Eastern Japan, but depending on your tastes, this can be either a godsend or a curse. Other expats are fun, but the tour groups are a gift from hell.
