Yokohama
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| Category, CS group, Wikipedia, Wikitravel, Hitchwiki | Tokyo, Yokohama, Kyoto, Nagoya |
| Yokohama Links | CS group, Wikipedia, Wikitravel |
Yokohama is Japan's second largest city and, with it's proximity to Tokyo, is part of the core of CS Japan. The CS Yokohama Group is active with gatherings almost every month. Being only 30 minutes from Tokyo by train and part of the metropolitan area itself, Yokohama is a great place for travelers who want to experience Japan's big city night life but also enjoy beaches and more outdoor activities during the way.
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CouchSurfing in Yokohama
For hosts in the center of the city, living conditions aren't much different from Tokyo. However, there is still a group of friendly, dedicated hosts to help you out. Because many travelers don't realize just how close Yokohama is to Tokyo people in Yokohama may have fewer requests and more open space for you.
Alternative Accommodation
See the Alternative Accommodation section of the Japan country page for info on hostels, guest houses, and internet cafes.
Regular gatherings
Transportation
Links to transit planning websites can be found in the Transit Planning section of the Japan country page.
From the larger stations in Tokyo, here are the fairs and times connecting to Yokohama Station.
| Train Line | From | Price (yen) | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| JR Tokaido Line1 | Tokyo | | |
| Shinagawa | | | |
| JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line1 | Ikebukuro | | |
| Shinjuku | | | |
| Tokyu Toyoko Line | Shibuya | | |
| Keikyu Line Ltd. Express | Shinagawa | | |
1 Valid for JR Rail Pass use
Inside Yokohama
All of the stations in the city are in English/Japanese, with larger stations sometimes offering Chinese and Korean.
Intra-city travel options:
- Trains and Subway (English Map - PDF) – Yokohama is serviced by the Yokohama Municipal Subway, Japan Rail, a number of private companies. Many of the private lines connect with Tokyo Metro or Toei Subway lines that go into Tokyo.
- Bus – Reliable but slow, it is recommended to use trains instead. Unlike Tokyo, some buses will charge per distance rather than a flat rate. Late-night surcharges (after 10pm) may still apply.
- Taxi – Very expensive, fares start at 710yen and increase quickly after 2Km. If you miss your last train, however, this is your only transportation option.
What to see and do in Yokohama
Places and sights
- Minato Mirai / Landmark Tower
The Minato Mirai area is a clean and modern sea-side urban development. There is tons of shopping, Cosmoworld (a seaside amusement park), and Landmark Tower (the tallest building in Japan).
A beautiful traditional garden in southern Yokohama. Entry is 500yen and it is open from 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30).
- Yokohama Chinatown (Chukagai)
Japan's largest Chinatown is full of tons of restaurants and street vendors.
- Kamakura
While not inside Yokohama city limits, Japan's old capital is a short distance away. One of Japan's largest Buddha statues is here, along with many famous temples and shrines. A must see for those who can't make it to Kyoto or Nara. Famous for it's [i]ajisai[/i] (hydrangea) flowers in June.
- Mt. Fuji
There are many places in and near Yokohama where Mt. Fuji can be seen clearly, particularly from the beaches. Some of the most famous paintings of Fuji were done from Yokohama for a reason. Check it out!
Off the beaten track
Culture and entertainment
Yokohama is a big city and has a lot going on - sometimes even for free. Some events may be listed in Tokyo or Tokyo metropolitan area publications such as:
- Metropolis magazine (English) - current cultural activities
- Tokyo Essential's Bar and Drinking Guide
- Japanese Food and Drink - general food information and recommendations for CS gatherings
- For specific recommendations, check the CouchSurfing Tokyo map, which includes the Yokohama area, at Google Maps.
Food
Yokohama is home to the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum.
Drinks
The area around Yokohama Station is full of nightlife, as is nearby Sakuragicho.
