Global Major Cities Guide

Overview of shopping areas, options for daily necessities, and markets in Yokohama.

Sections

1. Popular Shopping Areas in Yokohama

Minato Mirai 21

Overview: A modern waterfront district with a mix of shopping malls, entertainment, and dining options.
Key Spots:
- Landmark Plaza: A high-end shopping mall with international and Japanese brands, as well as specialty stores.
- Queen’s Square Yokohama: A large shopping complex with fashion, lifestyle goods, and restaurants.
- MARK IS Minato Mirai: A family-friendly mall with a wide range of stores, including fashion, electronics, and home goods.
- Yokohama World Porters: A diverse shopping mall with themed floors, including Japanese souvenirs, fashion, and gourmet food.
Price Range: Mid to high-end, depending on the store.
Best For: Fashion, electronics, and modern Japanese goods.

Motomachi Shopping Street

Overview: A charming, European-style shopping street with a mix of boutique stores and well-known Japanese brands.
What to Find:
- High-quality fashion and accessories.
- Specialty stores selling Japanese ceramics, tea, and traditional crafts.
- Gourmet food shops and bakeries.
Price Range: Mid to high-end.
Best For: Unique gifts, luxury items, and a relaxed shopping experience.

Yokohama Chinatown (Chūkagai)

Overview: The largest Chinatown in Japan, known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique shopping options.
What to Find:
- Chinese-inspired goods, such as tea, herbs, and traditional clothing.
- Souvenirs like lucky charms and decorative items.
- Street food and snacks to enjoy while shopping.
Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.
Best For: Souvenirs, food-related shopping, and cultural exploration.

Isezaki Mall (Isezaki-chō Shopping Street)

Overview: A traditional shopping street with a local vibe, offering a mix of modern and old-fashioned stores.
What to Find:
- Affordable clothing and accessories.
- Local food products and snacks.
- Traditional Japanese goods like yukata (summer kimono) and geta (wooden sandals).
Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.
Best For: Budget-friendly shopping and a glimpse into local life.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (Akarenga Sōko)

Overview: A historic building turned into a trendy shopping and cultural complex.
What to Find:
- Artisan crafts and handmade goods.
- Unique souvenirs and boutique items.
- Seasonal markets and pop-up shops.
Price Range: Mid-range.
Best For: Unique, artsy gifts and seasonal shopping events.

Kōtōdai Market and Local Flea Markets

Overview: Traditional markets and occasional flea markets in Yokohama offer a chance to shop like a local.
What to Find:
- Fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
- Antique goods and second-hand items.
- Handmade crafts and traditional Japanese items.
Price Range: Affordable.
Best For: Bargain hunting and authentic local goods.

2. Types of Shops and Markets

Department Stores

Examples: Sogo Yokohama, Takashimaya Yokohama.
What to Expect: High-end fashion, cosmetics, home goods, and gourmet food floors.
Price Range: Mid to high-end.
Tip: Visit the basement food floors (depachika) for beautifully packaged Japanese sweets and delicacies.

Specialty Stores

Examples: Pokémon Center Yokohama (for Pokémon merchandise), Uniqlo (affordable Japanese fashion), and Loft (stationery and lifestyle goods).
What to Expect: Unique, high-quality items that make great souvenirs or gifts.
Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.

Traditional Craft Stores

What to Find: Japanese ceramics, lacquerware, calligraphy tools, and textiles.
Where to Go: Motomachi Shopping Street, Red Brick Warehouse, or specialty stores in Chinatown.

Electronics Stores

Examples: Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera.
What to Expect: The latest gadgets, cameras, and appliances.
Price Range: Mid to high-end.
Tip: Look for tax-free shopping options if you’re a tourist.

3. Price Ranges

Affordable: Local markets, flea markets, and budget-friendly stores like Don Quijote or Daiso (100-yen shop).
Mid-Range: Specialty stores, department stores, and most shopping malls.
High-End: Luxury brands in Landmark Plaza, Queen’s Square, and department stores.

4. Payment Practices

Cash vs. Card: While credit cards are widely accepted in malls and department stores, smaller shops and markets may only accept cash. It’s a good idea to carry yen in smaller denominations.
IC Cards: Prepaid transportation cards like Suica or Pasmo can sometimes be used for small purchases in convenience stores and vending machines.
Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport to take advantage of this.

5. Cultural Tips for Shopping in Yokohama

Politeness: Japanese shop staff are known for their exceptional customer service. Greet them with a polite “Konnichiwa” (hello) and say “Arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) when leaving.
Trying On Clothes: In clothing stores, you may be asked to use a face cover when trying on garments to avoid staining them with makeup.
Haggling: Bargaining is not common in Japan, except at flea markets or second-hand shops.
Packaging: Japanese stores often wrap purchases beautifully. If you’re buying a gift, let the staff know, and they’ll provide special wrapping.
Shopping Bags: Many stores charge for plastic bags, so consider bringing a reusable shopping bag.

6. Tourist-Friendly Advice

Language: While many shop staff speak basic English, it’s helpful to know a few Japanese phrases or use a translation app.
Timing: Most stores open around 10:00 AM and close by 8:00 or 9:00 PM. Plan your shopping trips accordingly.
Seasonal Sales: Look out for sales during New Year (January) and summer (July-August). You can find great deals during these times.
Souvenirs to Buy:
- Yokohama-themed items like Red Brick Warehouse goods or Chinatown souvenirs.
- Japanese snacks and sweets, such as Yokohama’s famous “Aka Renga” cookies.
- Traditional crafts like pottery, tea sets, or furoshiki (wrapping cloth).

Yokohama’s shopping scene offers a perfect mix of modern convenience and traditional charm. Whether you’re strolling through a bustling mall or exploring a quaint shopping street, you’re sure to find something special to take home. Enjoy your shopping adventure in Yokohama!