Yokohama Chinatown, Tokyo
Japan's largest Chinatown, a vibrant hub of delicious Chinese food, colorful gates, and rich cultural experiences just a short trip from Tokyo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Yokohama Chinatown, Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's largest Chinatown, a vibrant hub of delicious Chinese food, colorful gates, and rich cultural experiences just a short trip from Tokyo.
"A culinary adventure awaits in Yokohama Chinatown, offering an explosion of flavors and vibrant sights!"
🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost
The streets are winding and can be confusing, but getting lost is part of the fun! :woman_shrugging:
🥟 Try Sheng Jian Bao
Don't miss these delicious pan-fried dumplings, a popular street food snack. :dumpling:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Street Food Delights
Throughout Chinatown
Indulge in a smorgasbord of delicious snacks like pan-fried dumplings, hedgehog buns, and egg tarts.
Colorful Gates and Murals
Various entrances and walls
Marvel at the intricate Chinese murals that tell ancient stories and wisdom, adding a unique artistic flair.
Authentic Chinese Cuisine
Numerous restaurants
Savor a wide range of Chinese regional dishes, from Cantonese dim sum to spicy Hunan and Sichuan flavors.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Yokohama Chinatown
A Taste of Tokyo's Chinatown
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost
The streets are winding and can be confusing, but getting lost is part of the fun! :woman_shrugging:
🥟 Try Sheng Jian Bao
Don't miss these delicious pan-fried dumplings, a popular street food snack. :dumpling:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Cash is Handy
While many places accept cards, smaller stalls might prefer cash. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost
The streets are winding and can be confusing, but getting lost is part of the fun! :woman_shrugging:
🥟 Try Sheng Jian Bao
Don't miss these delicious pan-fried dumplings, a popular street food snack. :dumpling:
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Cash is Handy
While many places accept cards, smaller stalls might prefer cash. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Yokohama Chinatown for its incredible food variety and vibrant atmosphere, making it a top destination for culinary exploration. While the sheer number of food options can be overwhelming, and some find the streets confusing, the overall experience is highly recommended for its delicious street food and cultural immersion.
"It is the largest Chinatown in Japan. Having few ornate gates to the town. There are many authentic Chinese restaurants available here. They have displayed the items and rates in front of the restaurants. The rates were found as reasonable. The town area is kept near and tidy as typical to the Japanese locations. It is at Kanagawa prefecture. They have got many Chinese shops and temples also here. Though, we came here as a group in a bus, walked along the street to have clear view of the China town and to have shopping."
BABU O VARGHESE
"One of the most colorful and lively spots in Yokohama! Yokohama Chinatown is the biggest Chinatown in Japan, and it’s absolutely packed with amazing food, bright lanterns, and beautiful gates at every corner. Super easy to get to from Tokyo too—just around 40–50 minutes by train.
There’s so much to explore here! The streets are filled with Chinese restaurants, snack stalls, dim sum shops, and souvenir stores. I recommend trying the pork buns, sesame balls, and soup dumplings—there are lines at some places, but they move fast and it’s totally worth it.
Besides food, the area is just fun to walk around. It’s very photogenic, especially at night when the lights come on. There’s also a beautiful temple (Kanteibyo) right in the middle of it all that adds to the atmosphere.
I went during the afternoon and stayed until evening—perfect timing to enjoy the shops and see everything light up. It can get busy, especially on weekends, but that’s part of the energy."
giftzy_nana
"I’ve been to many Chinatowns and I must say that Yokohama’s Chinatown is the most cleanest that I have visited. The Chinatown is not that large, just a couple of streets make up the proximity. However, what it lacks in size, it makes it up with value. The value of being able to try many assorted treats packed into a short distance. You can try the Chinese baos (steamed buns), dim sum and the delicious large fried chicken. Everything is reasonable priced about and around 500 yen. There are many fortune tellers here. I did not know that it was popular in Yokohama. You should try it out if you feel lucky too.
Take the subway for an easy and stress free way to arrive and depart Chinatown. Highly recommend. Definitely will be back!"
Dean N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yokohama Chinatown is easily accessible from Tokyo via train. 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.
Absolutely! Yokohama Chinatown is a fantastic day trip destination from Tokyo, offering a unique cultural and culinary experience just a short train ride away.
Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minatomirai Line is the most convenient station, placing you right in the heart of Chinatown.
Yes, there are several paid parking lots available near Yokohama Chinatown. However, using public transportation is generally recommended due to potential traffic and parking fees. :car:
While it's possible, it's a considerable walk. It's more convenient to take the Minatomirai Line from Yokohama Station to Motomachi-Chukagai Station. :train:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Yokohama Chinatown is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely explore its streets and markets. :free_button:
The streets and shops are generally open from around 10 AM to 9 PM daily, though individual restaurant hours may vary. Many food stalls operate throughout the day. :clock:
For most casual eateries and street food stalls, no booking is required. However, for popular or fine-dining restaurants, especially during peak hours or weekends, reservations are recommended. :restaurant:
Yes, Yokohama Chinatown hosts various traditional Chinese festivals throughout the year, such as Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, which offer a vibrant cultural experience. :fireworks:
The Japan Rail Pass covers JR lines, but the Minatomirai Line, which is the most direct route to Chinatown, is not covered. You will need to pay separately for this segment or use JR lines to Yokohama Station and then transfer. :ticket:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You absolutely must try the street food! Popular choices include pan-fried dumplings (sheng jian bao), pork buns, hedgehog buns, egg tarts, and Peking duck.
'Wafu Chuka' refers to Japanese-style Chinese food, which has been adapted to local tastes. Expect dishes like ebi chili, individual dim sum selections, and fried rice with a Japanese twist.
While many dishes are meat-based, you can find vegetarian options like vegetable dumplings, bao buns with vegetable fillings, and some noodle dishes. It's always best to ask at the restaurant. :leafy_green:
Visiting on weekday afternoons generally offers a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Evenings can be lively but busier.
Yes, families often enjoy Yokohama Chinatown. The vibrant atmosphere, colorful sights, and variety of snacks make it engaging for kids.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant main gates, the colorful Chinese murals, bustling food stalls, and the intricate architecture of the temples and restaurants.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas and for food shots. However, it's always polite to ask permission before taking photos of staff or private areas within restaurants. :camerawithflash:
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful lighting. Evenings are also great for capturing the illuminated lanterns and vibrant night scene. :sunriseovermountains:
The Kanteibyo Temple, the various colorful gates, and the intricate murals are iconic photo opportunities.
Drone photography is generally restricted in densely populated urban areas like Yokohama Chinatown due to safety and privacy regulations. Always check local drone laws before flying. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to try different street foods and explore the unique shops. The visual stimulation of the colorful gates and murals can also be very engaging for younger visitors. Just be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and keep a close eye on little ones in the bustling streets. :child: :lollipop:
🍜 Food Enthusiasts
Consider taking a food tour or simply dedicating a few hours to 'eating your way through' Chinatown. Don't be afraid to venture off the main thoroughfares to discover hidden gems. The sheer variety ensures a memorable gastronomic experience. :forkandknife: :wok:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Culinary Journey Through Yokohama Chinatown
Beyond the street snacks, explore the diverse range of regional Chinese cuisines. You can find authentic Cantonese, Sichuan, Hunan, and Shanghainese dishes. Some Redditors recommend specific restaurants like Heichinrou for dim sum or Peking Hanten for their Peking Duck and braised pork belly.
Don't be afraid to try new things and explore the smaller eateries. The sheer variety means you can embark on a culinary adventure, sampling different flavors and textures as you wander through the bustling streets. :dumpling: :ramen: :ice_cream:
Exploring the Cultural Tapestry
These murals offer a unique artistic perspective and a glimpse into Chinese philosophy.
The architecture itself is a blend of traditional Chinese styles with Japanese influences, creating a visually captivating environment. Wandering through the narrow, winding streets, you'll encounter traditional shops selling Chinese herbs, tea, ceramics, and souvenirs, adding to the immersive experience. During festivals, such as Chinese New Year, the entire district comes alive with vibrant parades, lion dances, and traditional performances, offering a truly spectacular cultural immersion. It's a place where you can feel the energy and history of a community that has thrived for generations. :lantern: :dragon:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit