Itinerary
Kick off your romantic getaway with Japan's first urban ropeway, offering a unique aerial perspective of the bay area. As you glide from Sakuragicho Station to the canal park, the futuristic cabin provides intimacy and panoramic views of the skyline that set the perfect mood for a date. The ride is smooth, allowing you to converse while admiring the architecture below. [Highlights]: The sensation of floating above the bustling streets and the stunning view of the Landmark Tower reflected in the water. [Tips]: While the ride is short (about 5 minutes), buy a one-way ticket to walk back later along the promenade. The cabins are air-conditioned, making it comfortable even in summer.
These two historical buildings, originally customs houses from the Meiji and Taisho eras, have been transformed into a chic cultural complex. The rustic red brick exterior contrasts beautifully with the modern boutiques and glass-walled cafes inside. It is an ideal spot for couples to browse unique handmade jewelry, stationary, and local Yokohama brands like Kitamura bags. The open plaza often hosts seasonal events like Oktoberfest or the Christmas Market. [Highlights]: The balcony on the second floor of Building 2 offers a breezy view of the Great Pier and ships passing by. [Tips]: Try the fluffy pancakes at Bills or grab a craft beer at the food court to enjoy on the seaside terrace.
Located just a short stroll from the Red Brick Warehouse, this open-air mall is designed to feel like a relaxed West Coast American boardwalk. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet casual, featuring mural art on the walls that serves as excellent backdrops for couple photos. For dinner, choose a restaurant with terrace seating facing the ocean to watch the sky turn from twilight to night. [Highlights]: The photogenic "Angel Wings" mural and the curated selection of lifestyle shops like Fred Segal. [Tips]: Make a reservation at Pie Holic for their famous all-you-can-eat savory pies, or A16 for Californian-Italian pizza and wine.
End your first night with a ride on the world's largest clock-style Ferris wheel. Standing 112.5 meters tall, it illuminates the night sky with a dynamic light show before you even board. Once inside the gondola, you have 15 minutes of private time to enjoy the glittering night view of the Minato Mirai 21 district, often cited as one of the best nightscapes in Japan. [Highlights]: The 360-degree view encompassing the Bay Bridge and the twinkling lights of the harbor. [Tips]: For a thrill, wait in the separate line for the see-through gondola with a transparent floor, though standard gondolas offer plenty of romance without the vertigo.
Start your second day with a refreshing morning walk at Yokohama's most famous seaside park. The wide promenade is lined with benches and flower beds, making it a classic dating spot for locals. You can admire the historic ocean liner NYK Hikawa Maru anchored permanently at the dock, adding a nostalgic maritime charm to the scenery. The ocean breeze here is invigorating and sets a relaxed pace for the day. [Highlights]: The extensive rose garden which blooms spectacularly in spring and autumn, and the 'Girl with Red Shoes' statue. [Tips]: Grab a coffee from a nearby convenience store or cafe and sit on the grass watching the ships come and go.
Immerse yourselves in the vibrant energy of Japan's largest Chinatown. The streets are packed with colorful gates, ornate temples, and the appetizing aroma of spices. Instead of a sit-down meal, try 'tabearuki' (walking and eating) to share various snacks. The area is a labyrinth of culinary delights, from steaming buns to sweet treats, offering a fun and interactive lunch experience. [Highlights]: The intricate architecture of Kanteibyo Temple and the sheer variety of street food stalls. [Tips]: Must-try items include 'Yaki-Xiao Long Bao' (pan-fried soup dumplings) from Houtenkaku and the rich, creamy egg tarts available at various bakeries.
Contrast the chaos of Chinatown with the European elegance of Motomachi. This historic shopping street was originally developed for foreign residents, resulting in a distinct Western flair with cobblestone pavements and classic architecture. It is quieter and more upscale, perfect for window shopping at local jewelry brands like Star Jewelry or browsing high-quality leather goods. [Highlights]: The charming streetscape that feels like a movie set and the original shops that started Western fashion trends in Japan. [Tips]: Visit Uchiki Pan, one of the oldest bakeries in Japan, to pick up their signature England Loaf or a sweet pastry.
Climb the hill (or take the escalator) to this park for one of the most romantic vantage points in the city. As the name suggests, it offers sweeping views of the Bay Bridge and the harbor below. The park also houses preserved western-style residences like the British House Yokohama, which you can enter for free to see how diplomats lived in the early 20th century. [Highlights]: The English Rose Garden surrounding the western residences and the sunset view over the industrial cranes. [Tips]: The view is spectacular at sunset, but the park closes relatively early, so check the time. It is a great spot for a quiet moment away from the crowds.
Cap off your full day with a visit to the observation deck on the 69th floor of the Landmark Tower. The elevator is one of the fastest in Japan, whisking you up in roughly 40 seconds. From 273 meters high, the city looks like a jewelry box. It is a quintessential date spot where you can sit by the window and point out the places you visited earlier in the day. [Highlights]: The 360-degree panorama including Tokyo Tower and Mt. Fuji on clear days. [Tips]: Visit just before sunset to see the transition from day to night. There is a cafe, Sky Cafe, where you can order cocktails and pair seats facing the window.
For a playful and creative morning, visit this interactive museum dedicated to instant ramen. It is not just for kids; couples love the 'My Cupnoodles Factory' workshop where you design your own cup packaging and choose soup flavors and toppings to create a custom souvenir. The museum's modern design and quirky exhibits on the history of invention are surprisingly engaging. [Highlights]: The Instant Noodles History Cube displaying thousands of packages and the hands-on factory experience. [Tips]: Reservations for the My Cupnoodles Factory are essential on weekends. Book online in advance to secure your slot.
Finish your trip at this cruise terminal complex focused on food and factory experiences. The facility gets its name from the giant historical hammerhead crane preserved on the dock. Inside, you will find upscale ramen shops, craft chocolate makers, and cafes. It is the perfect place for a final lunch and to pick up high-quality gifts before heading home. [Highlights]: The open terrace decks on the second floor offering close-up views of docked cruise ships. [Tips]: Visit the Kurumicco Factory to buy the famous walnut caramel sweets (Kurumicco), often sold out elsewhere. You can watch them being made through the glass.