Kanteibyo (Yokohama Chinatown) - Image 1
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Kanteibyo Yokohama Chinatown

4.2
·1k reviews·Yokohama, Japan

A vibrant cultural hub, Yokohama Chinatown is Japan's largest, offering a sensory feast of food, colorful gates, and the historic Kanteibyo Temple.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Kanteibyo (Yokohama Chinatown) - Image 1

Kanteibyo Yokohama Chinatown

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant cultural hub, Yokohama Chinatown is Japan's largest, offering a sensory feast of food, colorful gates, and the historic Kanteibyo Temple.

4.2
(1k reviews)

"Yokohama Chinatown is a sensory overload of delicious food, vibrant colors, and rich history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Beyond the Main Street

Wander through the smaller alleys for hidden gems and authentic culinary experiences.

🍜 Savor Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Don't miss the steamed buns and diverse regional dishes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kanteibyo Temple

Kanteibyo Temple

Heart of Yokohama Chinatown

A vibrant Taoist temple dedicated to Guan Yu, adorned with colorful sculptures and intricate carvings.

Chukagai-odori (Main Avenue)

Chukagai-odori (Main Avenue)

Yokohama Chinatown

The bustling main street, lined with over 600 shops, restaurants, and colorful gates, offering a sensory feast.

Bungo Stray Dogs Filming Locations

Bungo Stray Dogs Filming Locations

Various spots in Yokohama

Fans can explore real-life locations featured in the popular anime series, adding a unique layer to their visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vibrant Atmosphere

Yokohama Chinatown is a bustling hub of culture and cuisine. Arrive early to beat the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells. Consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.

Temple Etiquette and Entry

Kanteibyo Temple, while free to view from the outside, requires a small fee for interior access. Be mindful of temple etiquette, dress respectfully, and be prepared for intricate details that might require a closer look.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant neon lights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

横浜中華街にある綺麗すぎるパンケーキが名物のカフェ🥞 銅板でじっくり焼き上げたパンケーキはサクッと香ばしくバターやアイスとの相性もばっちり! 店内もおしゃれだから中華街で食べ歩きするときぜひここでひと休みしてほしい☕️ 📍横浜「CHILLULU COFFEE」 #神奈川グルメ #横浜グルメ #横浜カフェ #pancakes #japanesefood
@yuuuuto38
615.9K likes • 11.3M views

🎯 Explore Beyond the Main Street

Wander through the smaller alleys for hidden gems and authentic culinary experiences. Instagram

🍜 Savor Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Don't miss the steamed buns and diverse regional dishes. TikTokInstagram

Hunting down real life Bungo Stray Dogs locations #BungoStrayDogs #BSD #Yokohama
@ajteevin
92.9K likes • 570.7K views
Nothing like Yokohama Chinatown in the rain 🏮 Tag your photos and videos with #myyokohama ! Video: @matcha.camera
findyouryokohama_japan
7.1K likes • 118.3K views

📸 Capture the Colorful Gates

The 'pai lou' gates are iconic and Feng Shui-inspired. Instagram+1

✨ Seek Out Anime Spots

For fans, tracing Bungo Stray Dogs locations is a must. TikTok+2

Visitando el templo Kanteibyo en el centro del Chinatown, Yokohama🇨🇳✨ Cada rincón de Tokio es tan tan tan único y hermoso🥹
roxanne.machin
0 likes • 3.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Beyond the Main Street

Wander through the smaller alleys for hidden gems and authentic culinary experiences. Instagram

🍜 Savor Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Don't miss the steamed buns and diverse regional dishes. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Colorful Gates

The 'pai lou' gates are iconic and Feng Shui-inspired. Instagram+1

✨ Seek Out Anime Spots

For fans, tracing Bungo Stray Dogs locations is a must. TikTok+2

💰 Free Exterior Views

Admire the temple's exterior for free; a small fee for interior access. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Yokohama Chinatown for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage, particularly the Kanteibyo Temple. The sheer scale and energy of the district are often highlighted as major draws. Some find the crowds can be overwhelming, and occasional issues with overly zealous photographers have been noted.

"This shrine enshrines an ancient Chinese hero.
The building is decorated with colorful sculptures.
You can view the exterior of building for free but the entrance fee is required to enter it."

K2

"The temple is nice and clean. Not too big compared to other temples, but worth to visit when you come to Yokohama China town. You can pay 500 JPY for getting the praying instruments."

Billie Pratama

"First of all, it's not a Shinto Shrine nor a Buddhist temple. It's a Taoist temple dedicated to a few Chinese gods.

It's a small temple with wonderful intricate carvings and designs. And like most temples which should not be for profit, it's free to visit and enter.

It's a must-stop if you're visiting Yokohama Chinatown."

J C

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Delicious Chinese food
Colorful architecture

What People Dislike

Crowded at times
Photography issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yokohama Chinatown is easily accessible from Tokyo. Take the JR Tokaido Line or Keihin-Tohoku Line to Yokohama Station, then transfer to the Minatomirai Line and alight at Motomachi-Chukagai Station. The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes. TikTok+1

The best way to explore Yokohama Chinatown is on foot. The main avenue, Chukagai-odori, is pedestrian-friendly, and many of the most interesting sights are found by wandering through the smaller alleys. Instagram+1

Yes, there are several parking lots available near Yokohama Chinatown, including the Chinatown Parking Lot and the Yamashita Park Parking Lot. However, driving and parking can be challenging due to traffic and crowds, especially on weekends. Instagram

Yes, Kanteibyo Temple is located in the heart of Yokohama Chinatown and is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest station is Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minatomirai Line. Instagram+1

The Minatomirai Line is highly recommended for exploring Yokohama, with Motomachi-Chukagai Station being the closest to Chinatown. If coming from Tokyo, JR lines are also a convenient option to reach Yokohama Station. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Viewing the exterior of Kanteibyo Temple is free. However, there is a small entrance fee to go inside and explore the temple's intricate carvings and decorations. Reddit

Yokohama Chinatown hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) with lantern illuminations, and other celebrations. Instagram

No, advance booking is generally not required for Kanteibyo Temple. You can purchase tickets at the entrance. Reddit

Yokohama Chinatown is generally open throughout the day, with shops and restaurants having varying hours. Kanteibyo Temple typically opens in the morning and closes in the early evening. Instagram

No, Yokohama Chinatown is a public district and there is no entrance fee to walk around and explore the streets. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You must try the delicious steamed buns (nikuman), dim sum, and various regional Chinese dishes. Many TikTok videos highlight the culinary delights. TikTokInstagram

Yokohama Chinatown offers a wide array of shops selling Chinese crafts, tea, traditional clothing, and unique souvenirs. You can also find Bungo Stray Dogs merchandise. TikTok

The colorful gates, known as 'pai lou,' are built based on Feng Shui principles and mark the entrances to different sections of Chinatown. Instagram+1

Yes, Yokohama Chinatown is very photogenic with its vibrant colors, intricate architecture, and bustling street scenes. The Kanteibyo Temple and the main avenue are particularly popular photo spots. Instagram+1

At night, Yokohama Chinatown transforms with neon lights and illuminated lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. It's a great time for a stroll and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Kanteibyo Temple, the main avenue (Chukagai-odori) with its colorful gates and lanterns, and the bustling street scenes offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

While generally welcoming, some visitors have reported staff at certain establishments being protective of their space, even asking photographers to stop. Be mindful and respectful. TikTok

Both daytime and nighttime offer unique photographic experiences. Daytime captures the vibrant colors and details, while nighttime showcases the magical glow of neon lights and lanterns. TikTok+1

Consider capturing the architectural details of the Kanteibyo Temple, the lively street food vendors, the iconic gates, and the general atmosphere of this vibrant district. Instagram+1

While not explicitly stated, be aware that some establishments might not appreciate extensive photography that disrupts their business or patrons. Always be considerate. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yokohama Chinatown offers a vibrant and engaging experience for families. The colorful streets, unique architecture, and the sheer variety of food can be exciting for children. Encourage them to try new snacks like steamed buns and explore the lively atmosphere. Instagram

While Kanteibyo Temple is a cultural site, its intricate decorations might capture a child's imagination. Consider visiting during the day when it's less crowded. For a more interactive experience, look for shops selling fun souvenirs or consider a short ride on the nearby Ferris wheel at Cosmo World for panoramic views of the city and harbor. TikTok

🍜 Foodie Explorers

Yokohama Chinatown is a dream destination for food enthusiasts. With over 600 eateries, the culinary possibilities are endless. Focus on trying a variety of dishes, from classic dim sum and hearty noodle soups to sweet treats and regional specialties. TikTokInstagram

Don't be afraid to sample street food and explore smaller, less-known restaurants for authentic flavors. Many visitors recommend trying the famous steamed buns (nikuman) and exploring the diverse offerings. Consider creating a 'food crawl' itinerary to sample as much as possible. TikTok

✨ Anime & Pop Culture Fans

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cultural Heart: Kanteibyo Temple

Kanteibyo Temple, located in the heart of Yokohama Chinatown, is a significant Taoist temple dedicated to Guan Yu, the Chinese god of business prosperity, loyalty, and justice. Established in 1871 and later expanded, the temple is renowned for its intricate carvings and colorful sculptures that adorn its exterior and interior. Visitors can admire the detailed artistry, which tells stories from Chinese mythology and history. While the exterior is free to view, a small entrance fee grants access to the inner sanctums, allowing for a more immersive experience. InstagramReddit+2

The temple's architecture and design are deeply rooted in Chinese tradition and Feng Shui principles, contributing to the unique atmosphere of Yokohama Chinatown. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural landmark that draws visitors interested in Chinese heritage. The priests at the temple may share fascinating insights into its history and the creation of its detailed decorations, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic significance of the site. Reddit

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the temple's role in the community, it's worth noting that it was built with donations from the overseas Chinese community in the Kanto area, highlighting its importance as a gathering place and symbol of cultural identity. Reddit

Culinary Delights of Yokohama Chinatown

Yokohama Chinatown is a paradise for food lovers, boasting over 600 restaurants and food stalls offering a vast array of authentic Chinese cuisine. From savory steamed buns (nikuman) to delicate dim sum and flavorful regional specialties, there's something to satisfy every palate. Many visitors highlight the sheer variety and deliciousness of the food available, making it a culinary adventure. TikTokInstagram

The main avenue, Chukagai-odori, is lined with eateries, but don't hesitate to explore the smaller side streets for hidden gems and more local experiences. Street food vendors offer quick and tasty snacks, perfect for enjoying while exploring the vibrant streets. Many TikTok creators showcase their favorite food finds, offering inspiration for your own gastronomic journey. TikTok

Beyond the main dishes, consider trying traditional Chinese desserts and beverages. The lively atmosphere, combined with the incredible food, makes dining in Yokohama Chinatown a truly memorable experience. Instagram

Anime Pilgrimage: Bungo Stray Dogs

For fans of the popular anime series Bungo Stray Dogs, Yokohama offers a unique opportunity for a real-life anime pilgrimage. Several locations within the city have been featured in the anime, allowing fans to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. TikTok+2

Key spots that have been identified by fans include areas around the Yokohama waterfront and various streets within Chinatown itself. Visiting these locations can add an extra layer of excitement and personal connection to your trip, especially if you're a fan of the series. Many fans express their joy and excitement upon discovering these real-life anime settings. TikTok+1

While exploring, be sure to look out for any related merchandise or themed cafes that might be available, further enhancing the Bungo Stray Dogs experience in Yokohama. TikTok

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