Tokyo Embarkation
Yokohama, Japan is a vibrant and modern port city with a rich history, a striking futuristic skyline, and a deep appreciation for culture and cuisine. It is a city that played a pivotal role in Japan's opening to the West and has since blossomed into a cosmopolitan hub that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. As a major cruise port, Yokohama is not only a fantastic destination in itself but also a convenient gateway to explore the wonders of Tokyo, located just a short train ride away.
⛵ Port Introduction
Yokohama has three main cruise terminals that serve cruise ships of all sizes. The most common is the Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal, a unique architectural marvel known for its wave-like wooden design. If you are docked here, you can walk directly off the ship and onto the terminal. For larger ships, there is also the Daikoku Pier and the Shinko Pier (also known as Yokohama Hammerhead). If your ship docks at either of these, a shuttle bus will be provided to take you to a central location.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Osanbashi Yokohama International Passenger Terminal is a permanent, multi-level building. It is a destination in itself, with a stunning rooftop observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the city's skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the surrounding harbor. The walk from the ship to the terminal is on a flat surface. The Daikoku and Shinko Piers are more industrial, but they have dedicated reception areas for cruise passengers.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The Osanbashi terminal is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find a tourist information desk with staff who can provide maps and directions. There are restrooms, coin-operated lockers for luggage, and a few small cafes and shops. The terminal has free Wi-Fi, currency exchange services, and a taxi stand just outside. At the Daikoku and Shinko Piers, you will also find basic amenities, with the shuttle bus service being the main link to the city's attractions.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Japanese. While you will find that English is spoken in the main tourist areas and at the cruise terminal, it is not as universally spoken as in some other countries. It is highly recommended to have a few basic Japanese phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Konnichiwa (kon-ni-chi-wa) - Hello
Arigatou (a-ri-ga-to) - Thank you
Sumimasen (su-mi-ma-sen) - Excuse me
Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (ei-go o ha-na-se-ma-su ka) - Do you speak English?
💰 Money
The official currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). While credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants, hotels, and larger shops, cash is still the preferred method of payment at many small shops, restaurants, and for street food. It is highly recommended to have some Yen on hand. ATMs are available in the terminal and throughout the city, but you should check with your bank to see if they charge a fee for international withdrawals.
🚗 Transportation
Yokohama's public transportation system is excellent, efficient, and very clean.
Walking: If you are docked at Osanbashi, many of the city's main attractions, including Yamashita Park and Chinatown, are within easy walking distance.
Trains: The train system is the best and most affordable way to get around the city and to Tokyo. The closest train stations to the Osanbashi Pier are Nihon-odori Station (7-minute walk) and Kannai Station (15-minute walk). You can use a rechargeable smart card like a Suica or Pasmo for seamless travel.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal and throughout the city. The rates are metered, but they can be expensive.
Ride-Sharing: Uber is available but is not as common as in other countries.
Buses: Yokohama has an excellent public bus system, and many buses, including the "Akai Kutsu" (Red Shoes) loop bus, stop at the Osanbashi Pier.
♿ Accessibility
Yokohama has an accessibility rating of 7 out of 10. The cruise terminals are modern and fully accessible, with ramps and elevators. The city has made a great effort to make its public transportation system and main attractions accessible. However, some of the older, historic areas may have uneven surfaces and stairs that can be challenging to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
If you are docked at Osanbashi, the best way to get to town is to simply walk. You are already in the heart of the city, and you can easily walk to all the main attractions. If you are docked at one of the other terminals, the best way to get to town is to take the shuttle bus.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Yokohama, especially at major tourist attractions, train stations, and shopping centers. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
Matsumoto Kiyoshi: There are many Matsumoto Kiyoshi pharmacies throughout the city, and they are a great place to get everything from over-the-counter medications to cosmetics.
Welcia Drugstore: There are many Welcia Drugstore locations throughout the city.
✨ Authentic Experience
Dine on Ramen at a Local Shop: Yokohama is famous for its ramen. For a truly authentic experience, find a local ramen shop and try a bowl of traditional ramen. The shops are often small and have a counter where you can watch the chef prepare the noodles.
Explore Yokohama's Chinatown: Yokohama's Chinatown is the largest in Asia and is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood of colorful streets, temples, and restaurants. It's a great place to wander, try some local street food, and get a feel for the local atmosphere.
Walk the Yamashita Park and See the Hikawamaru Ship: For a peaceful escape from the city, take a walk through Yamashita Park, a beautiful waterfront park that offers a stunning view of the harbor. You can also see the Hikawamaru, a historic ocean liner that is now a museum.
