Global Major Cities Guide

Overview: Minato Mirai 21 is Yokohama’s iconic waterfront district, home to modern shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and scenic views. It’s a hub for high-end shopping and family-friendly activities.
Key Locations:
- Landmark Plaza and Queen’s Square: These interconnected malls offer a mix of luxury brands, mid-range stores, and Japanese specialty shops. You’ll also find restaurants and cafes with views of the harbor.
- MARK IS Minato Mirai: A large shopping complex with a focus on lifestyle goods, fashion, and family-friendly stores. The basement level has a gourmet food market featuring local and international delicacies.
- Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (Akarenga Sōko): A historic building turned into a trendy shopping and cultural space. It features boutique shops selling handmade crafts, unique souvenirs, and seasonal pop-up stores.
Price Range: Mid to high-end. Expect to spend ¥3,000–¥10,000 for clothing and accessories, while souvenirs range from ¥500–¥3,000.
Cultural Tip: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists (minimum purchase of ¥5,000). Bring your passport to take advantage of this.

Overview: A charming, European-style shopping street located near Chinatown. It’s known for its boutique stores, upscale brands, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Specialties: High-quality Japanese and international fashion, accessories, and home goods. Look for stores selling Yokohama-made products, such as leather goods and pottery.
Price Range: Mid to high-end. Boutique items typically cost ¥5,000–¥20,000.
Cultural Tip: Motomachi is known for its seasonal events, such as the Motomachi Craftsmanship Street Fair and Christmas Illumination. Visit during these times for a unique shopping experience.

Overview: The largest Chinatown in Japan, this area is a bustling hub of food, culture, and shopping. While primarily known for its restaurants, it also offers a variety of shops.
Specialties: Chinese teas, traditional medicines, souvenirs, and imported goods. You’ll also find stores selling Chinese-style clothing and accessories.
Price Range: Affordable to mid-range. Souvenirs and small items typically cost ¥500–¥2,000.
Cultural Tip: Bargaining is not common in Japan, even in Chinatown. Prices are usually fixed, but you can politely ask if discounts are available for bulk purchases.

Overview: A large outlet mall and market located near the waterfront. It’s a great place for bargain hunters and those looking for discounted brand-name goods.
Specialties: Outlet stores for international and Japanese brands, as well as a small market area selling fresh produce and seafood.
Price Range: Affordable to mid-range. Outlet prices are typically 30–70% off retail.
Cultural Tip: Visit early in the day for the best selection, especially at the fresh market stalls.

Overview: A traditional shopping street with a retro vibe, offering a glimpse into Yokohama’s past. It’s a great place to explore local shops and eateries.
Specialties: Fresh produce, seafood, traditional Japanese sweets, and household goods.
Price Range: Very affordable. Snacks and small items cost around ¥100–¥500.
Cultural Tip: Many shops are family-run, so be polite and patient when interacting with shopkeepers. A simple “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) goes a long way.

Overview: Held periodically at various locations, these morning markets are a great way to experience local life and buy fresh, seasonal produce.
Specialties: Fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and handmade goods.
Price Range: Affordable. Fresh produce can cost as little as ¥100–¥300 per item.
Cultural Tip: Bring cash, as most vendors do not accept credit cards. Also, bring your own reusable bag, as plastic bags may not be provided.

Look for stores selling Yokohama kiri-e (paper cutting art), Yokohama pottery, and Yokohama silk products. These make excellent souvenirs and gifts.
Where to Buy: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Motomachi Shopping Street.

Yokohama hosts several seasonal markets, such as the Yokohama Christmas Market at the Red Brick Warehouse and the Yokohama Oktoberfest. These events feature unique goods, food, and cultural performances.

Don’t miss the food sections in department stores like Sogo Yokohama and Takashimaya Yokohama. Known as depachika, these basement food halls offer an incredible variety of Japanese sweets, bento boxes, and gourmet items.

Cash vs. Card: While major shopping malls and department stores accept credit cards, smaller shops and markets often only accept cash. It’s a good idea to carry yen in small denominations.
Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Look for the “Tax-Free” sign and bring your passport. Note that the tax-free process usually requires you to fill out a form and have your purchases sealed in a special bag.
Store Hours: Most shops open around 10:00 AM and close by 8:00 PM. Markets and smaller shops may close earlier, especially in the evening.
Politeness: Japanese culture places a high value on politeness. Always greet shopkeepers with a smile and say “sumimasen” (excuse me) if you need assistance.
No Bargaining: Unlike some other countries, bargaining is not a common practice in Japan. Prices are generally fixed, even in markets.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Many stores charge for plastic bags or do not provide them at all. Bring a reusable shopping bag to avoid extra charges and reduce waste.

For a modern shopping experience, head to Minato Mirai 21.
For unique souvenirs and a cultural vibe, visit the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse or Motomachi Shopping Street.
For fresh produce and a local atmosphere, explore the Yokohama Morning Market or Kofukuji Matsubara Shopping Street.
Don’t miss the depachika food halls in department stores for an unforgettable culinary experience.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the diverse shopping and market culture of Yokohama. Happy shopping!

Yokohama