Yokohama Minato Mirai

Minato Mirai is a Japanese term that translates to "Harbor Future" in English. The name reflects the area's development as a futuristic and innovative waterfront district in Yokohama, Japan. The name was chosen to reflect the hope and optimism for the future of the area, which was transformed from an industrial port area to a modern and vibrant urban center with a variety of attractions, including museums, shopping malls, amusement parks, and entertainment venues. Today, Minato Mirai is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of contemporary Japanese culture, history, and entertainment.

Access from Tokyo to Yokohama Minato Mirai by train

1. If you have a JR Pass, take the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Yokohama Station. The journey takes only 15-20 minutes. If you do not have a JR Pass and wants to avoid costly Shinkansen, you can take one of a few local JR lines connecting Tokyo and Yokohama, including Tokaido Line, Yokosuka Line and Keihin Tohoku Line. It takes 50 - 60 minutes but costs only 600 - 700 yen. Keihin Tohoku Line is the easiest choice for tourists as the train goes straight to Sakuragicho Station, which is one of the two stations located in Minato Mirai.

2. (For Shinkansen user) At Shin-Yokohama Shinkansen Station, transfer to the Yokohama City Subway Blue Line (also known as the "No. 4 Blue Line") bound for Azamino Station. You will need to exit the Shinkansen ticket gate and follow the signs to the subway station, which is located within the same complex. The journey from Shin-Yokohama to Minato Mirai Station takes around 15 minutes and costs around 300-400 yen.

3. Get off at Minato Mirai Station, which is located in the heart of the Minato Mirai district. From there, you can explore the area on foot or take a short ride on one of the local shuttle buses.

Overall, the journey from Tokyo to Minato Mirai by train takes around 45-60 minutes depending on the train and class of service. It's a convenient and efficient way to travel, and offers beautiful views of the Japanese countryside along the way.

Want to learn more about the JR Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!

Why is Minato Mirai so popular?

Minato Mirai in Yokohama is popular for several reasons:

1. Scenic views: Minato Mirai offers stunning views of Yokohama Bay and the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the bay from observation decks, such as the Landmark Tower Sky Garden or the Yokohama Marine Tower.

2. Shopping and entertainment: Minato Mirai is home to several shopping malls, including the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and the Queen's Square Yokohama, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and live performances all in one location.

3. Landmarks and attractions: Minato Mirai is home to several iconic landmarks, such as the Landmark Tower, the Yokohama Cosmo World amusement park, and the Yokohama Museum of Art and the Cupnoodles Museum. There are also several historic sites in the area, including the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, which was originally built in 1913 as a customs house.

4. Convenient location: Minato Mirai is located in the heart of Yokohama, which is a major city in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area. It is easily accessible by train. Many visitors combine a trip to Minato Mirai with other nearby attractions, such as China Town or the Yamashita Park.

Where to Stay in Minato Mirai

If you’d like to stay overnight and enjoy Yokohama’s waterfront even more, Minato Mirai has some fantastic hotels with beautiful views of the bay and easy access to attractions. Here are three popular choices:

InterContinental Yokohama Grand

This iconic sail-shaped hotel is one of Minato Mirai’s landmarks, right on the waterfront. Guests love the spacious rooms with panoramic bay views, excellent service, and fine dining options. Its prime location makes it easy to explore the CupNoodles Museum, Red Brick Warehouse, and Cosmo World.

Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu

Located in the heart of Minato Mirai, this modern hotel features comfortable rooms with private balconies overlooking Cosmo Clock 21 and the bay. With its convenient access to shopping, dining, and attractions, it’s a great choice for couples and families looking to relax and enjoy the vibrant area.

The Yokohama Royal Park Hotel

Set inside Landmark Tower—the tallest building in Yokohama—this luxury hotel offers some of the highest guest rooms in Japan. Enjoy breathtaking city and bay panoramas, elegant interiors, and direct access to Landmark Plaza’s shops and restaurants. A perfect option if you want both style and convenience.

👉 Check more hotels in Minato Mirai here