Global Major Cities Guide

Large, multi-floor complexes that house a variety of stores, food courts, entertainment options, and services—all in one convenient location.

Sections

Major Shopping Malls in Yokohama

Minato Mirai 21 Area
- Landmark Plaza and Queen’s Square Yokohama
  - Overview: These two interconnected malls are located in the Minato Mirai district, a popular waterfront area. Landmark Plaza is part of the Yokohama Landmark Tower, while Queen’s Square is a large shopping and entertainment complex.
  - Shopping: High-end brands (Coach, Michael Kors), Japanese fashion boutiques, and lifestyle stores like MUJI and Uniqlo.
  - Dining: A mix of Japanese and international cuisines, including sushi, ramen, and Western-style cafes.
  - Entertainment: The Pokémon Center Yokohama (great for fans of the franchise), and access to the Sky Garden observatory in Landmark Tower.
  - Costs: Mid to high range. Expect to spend ¥1,000–¥2,000 for a meal and ¥5,000+ for branded goods.
  - Cultural Tip: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists (minimum purchase of ¥5,000). Bring your passport to take advantage of this.
- MARK IS Minato Mirai
  - Overview: A modern shopping mall with a focus on family-friendly and eco-conscious shopping.
  - Shopping: Fashion, home goods, and electronics. Popular stores include Zara, ABC Mart (shoes), and Bic Camera (electronics).
  - Dining: A large food court with affordable options (¥500–¥1,500 per meal) and sit-down restaurants.
  - Entertainment: Orbi Yokohama, an interactive nature and wildlife experience (great for kids and families).
  - Costs: Affordable to mid-range.
  - Cultural Tip: Japanese malls often have coin lockers for storing bags, which is convenient if you’re shopping all day.
Yokohama Station Area
- JOINUS and More’s
  - Overview: These malls are directly connected to Yokohama Station, making them highly accessible.
  - Shopping: JOINUS features a mix of Japanese and international brands, while More’s focuses on trendy, youth-oriented fashion.
  - Dining: JOINUS has a basement food hall (depachika) with a variety of takeout options, from bento boxes to desserts.
  - Costs: Affordable to mid-range. Depachika meals can cost ¥500–¥1,500.
  - Cultural Tip: Depachika food halls are a great way to experience Japanese cuisine at a lower cost. Sampling is often allowed.
- SOGO Yokohama
  - Overview: A large department store connected to Yokohama Station, known for its luxury brands and gourmet food floor.
  - Shopping: High-end brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, as well as Japanese department store staples.
  - Dining: The basement food floor offers high-quality prepared foods, fresh produce, and sweets.
  - Costs: Mid to high range. Luxury goods can cost ¥10,000+.
  - Cultural Tip: Japanese department stores often have impeccable customer service. Staff will wrap purchases beautifully, which is great for gifts.
Yokohama Bay Quarter
- Overview: A stylish, open-air shopping mall near Yokohama Station with a focus on lifestyle and dining.
- Shopping: Boutique stores, home goods, and fashion brands.
- Dining: Waterfront restaurants offering Italian, French, and Japanese cuisine.
- Costs: Mid-range. Meals typically cost ¥1,500–¥3,000.
- Cultural Tip: This mall is pet-friendly, so you’ll often see locals with their dogs.
World Porters
- Overview: Located near the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, this mall has a fun, international vibe.
- Shopping: A mix of Japanese and international brands, as well as souvenir shops.
- Dining: The food court features global cuisines, including Hawaiian, Indian, and Italian.
- Entertainment: A cinema complex and arcade.
- Costs: Affordable to mid-range.
- Cultural Tip: This mall is popular with families and couples, especially in the evening when the Ferris wheel is lit up.
Red Brick Warehouse (Akarenga Sōko)
- Overview: A historic building turned into a shopping and cultural space.
- Shopping: Unique, artisanal goods, handmade crafts, and boutique fashion.
- Dining: Trendy cafes and restaurants with a focus on local ingredients.
- Entertainment: Seasonal events, such as Christmas markets and outdoor concerts.
- Costs: Mid-range. Handmade goods and crafts can be pricier than mass-produced items.
- Cultural Tip: This is a great spot for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Shopping and Entertainment Options

Fashion: From luxury brands to affordable Japanese fashion (GU, Uniqlo).
Electronics: Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera are popular for gadgets and appliances.
Souvenirs: Traditional Japanese crafts, snacks, and beauty products.
Entertainment: Cinemas, arcades, and interactive experiences like Orbi Yokohama.
Food: Depachika food halls, food courts, and sit-down restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines.

Costs to Expect

Clothing: ¥2,000–¥10,000 for casual wear, ¥10,000+ for luxury brands.
Electronics: ¥5,000–¥100,000 depending on the item.
Meals: ¥500–¥1,500 for food court meals, ¥1,500–¥3,000 for sit-down restaurants.
Entertainment: ¥1,000–¥2,000 for cinema tickets, ¥500–¥1,000 for arcade games.

Local and Cultural Considerations

Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport and ensure your total purchase meets the minimum requirement (usually ¥5,000).
Politeness: Staff are extremely polite and attentive. It’s customary to bow slightly when thanking them.
Packaging: Items are often beautifully wrapped, especially in department stores.
Cash vs. Card: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller stores or food stalls.
Recycling: Malls have designated bins for recycling. Be mindful of sorting your trash.

Tips for Navigating Yokohama Malls

Plan Your Visit: Malls like Landmark Plaza and Queen’s Square are large, so check maps and directories to prioritize stores.
Use Coin Lockers: Available in most malls for storing shopping bags or luggage.
Visit During Weekdays: Malls can get crowded on weekends, so visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
Take Advantage of Sales: Seasonal sales (January and July) offer significant discounts.
Language: Many stores have English-speaking staff or signage, but a translation app can be helpful.

Yokohama’s shopping malls offer a mix of modern convenience, cultural experiences, and entertainment, making them a must-visit for any traveler. Whether you’re looking for luxury goods, unique souvenirs, or a fun day out, there’s something for everyone!