Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Popular Specialty Shops and Locations

Yokohama is home to several districts and shopping areas that cater to different interests. Here are some of the most popular locations for specialty shopping:

a. Yokohama Chinatown (横浜中華街)

What to Buy: Chinese teas, traditional Chinese medicine, handmade dumplings, and unique souvenirs like panda-themed goods.
Details: As the largest Chinatown in Japan, this area is filled with specialty shops selling authentic Chinese goods. Look for stores like "Yokohama Daisekai" for unique gifts and "Kanteibyo Street" for traditional items.
Price Range: Small souvenirs start at ¥500, while premium teas or medicines can cost ¥2,000–¥10,000.
Nearby Attractions: Kanteibyo Temple, Yamashita Park, and the Yokohama Doll Museum.

b. Minato Mirai 21

What to Buy: High-end Japanese fashion, artisanal goods, and modern souvenirs.
Details: This futuristic waterfront area is home to shopping complexes like Landmark Plaza and Queen’s Square. Specialty shops here include "Yokohama Bashamichi Ice Cream" (selling retro-style ice cream) and "Yokohama World Porters" (offering a mix of Japanese and international goods).
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥20,000 depending on the item.
Nearby Attractions: Yokohama Landmark Tower, Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel, and Cup Noodles Museum.

c. Motomachi Shopping Street

What to Buy: Yokohama-made leather goods, European-inspired fashion, and local confectionery.
Details: This elegant shopping street is known for its boutique stores and long-standing specialty shops. Look for "Kitamura" (a famous leather goods brand) and "Yokohama Yumean" (selling traditional Japanese sweets).
Price Range: ¥2,000–¥50,000 for leather goods; ¥500–¥2,000 for sweets.
Nearby Attractions: Harbor View Park and the Foreign General Cemetery.

d. Red Brick Warehouse (横浜赤レンガ倉庫)

What to Buy: Handcrafted goods, artisanal foods, and limited-edition Yokohama-themed items.
Details: This historic warehouse has been converted into a shopping and cultural space. Specialty shops here include "Akarenga Depot" (selling handmade crafts) and "Yokohama Glass" (offering glass-blown items).
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥10,000.
Nearby Attractions: Osanbashi Pier and Marine & Walk Yokohama.

e. Isezaki Mall

What to Buy: Traditional Japanese textiles, kimono accessories, and local snacks.
Details: This shopping street has a retro vibe and is perfect for finding traditional Japanese goods. Shops like "Isezakiya" specialize in fabrics and accessories.
Price Range: ¥1,000–¥15,000.
Nearby Attractions: Nogeyama Zoo and Yokohama Stadium.

2. Types of Unique Goods and Local Specialties

Yokohama has a rich history as a port city, which has influenced its local specialties. Here are some must-buy items:

Yokohama Ham and Sausages: A legacy of Yokohama’s international trade history, these are high-quality, locally made products.
Yokohama Beer: Craft beer brewed locally, often sold in specialty liquor stores or at the Red Brick Warehouse.
Yokohama Silk Products: The city was once a hub for silk production, and you can still find silk scarves, ties, and other items.
Yokohama Sweets: Look for "Aka Renga" cookies or "Hama Bolo" biscuits, which are popular souvenirs.
Handmade Glassware: Yokohama Glass offers beautiful, handcrafted glass items, including vases and ornaments.

3. Price Ranges

Souvenirs and Small Items: ¥500–¥2,000
Artisanal Goods (e.g., glassware, leather goods): ¥2,000–¥50,000
High-End Fashion or Jewelry: ¥10,000–¥100,000+
Local Food and Snacks: ¥500–¥3,000

4. Shopping Customs and Etiquette

To ensure a smooth shopping experience, keep the following cultural tips in mind:

Cash vs. Card: While most large stores accept credit cards, smaller specialty shops may only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry yen in small denominations.
Tax-Free Shopping: Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Bring your passport to qualify for the tax exemption (usually for purchases over ¥5,000).
Gift Wrapping: Japanese stores often offer complimentary gift wrapping. If you’re buying a gift, don’t hesitate to ask for "wrapping" (ラッピング).
Politeness: Always greet shopkeepers with "Konnichiwa" (こんにちは) and thank them with "Arigatou gozaimasu" (ありがとうございます). Avoid touching items unless it’s clear you’re allowed to.
Bargaining: Bargaining is not common in Japan, so prices are usually fixed.

5. Nearby Attractions

Many specialty shopping areas in Yokohama are located near major attractions, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing. Here are some recommendations:

Yamashita Park: A beautiful waterfront park near Chinatown and Motomachi.
Cup Noodles Museum: A fun, interactive museum near Minato Mirai where you can create your own instant noodles.
Sankeien Garden: A traditional Japanese garden located a short distance from the city center.
Osanbashi Pier: A scenic spot for views of Yokohama Bay, located near the Red Brick Warehouse.

6. Tips for Enjoying Yokohama’s Specialty Shops

Plan Ahead: Research the shops you want to visit and their opening hours, as some smaller stores may close early or have irregular schedules.
Visit During Events: Yokohama often hosts seasonal markets and festivals, such as the Christmas Market at the Red Brick Warehouse, where you can find limited-edition goods.
Combine Shopping with Dining: Many shopping areas, like Chinatown and Minato Mirai, are also known for their excellent restaurants. Take a break and enjoy local delicacies.

Yokohama’s specialty shops offer a unique blend of traditional and modern goods, making it a fantastic destination for shoppers. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted items, local delicacies, or high-end fashion, you’re sure to find something special to take home. Enjoy your shopping adventure in Yokohama!