Motomachi and Yamate Area, Yokohama

The Motomachi and Yamate neighborhoods in Yokohama are known for their mix of cultures, buildings, and histories, reflecting the city's early connections to international trade. When Yokohama became a trade port in 1859, many foreigners settled in the area, especially on Yamate Hill due to its appeal for living and business. This led to Yamate becoming a neighborhood with a unique, almost non-Japanese feel, with Western-style buildings and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Motomachi Street, at the base of Yamate Hill, is famous for shopping. The street and nearby homes have a Western look, making it interesting for both locals and tourists. Although Motomachi is no longer just for foreigners, it's still a prestigious place to live. Today, its streets have popular cafes, art galleries, and parks like the Italian Garden, Yamate Park, and Yokohama Foreign General Cemetery, which preserve the area's historical charm.

Next to the historic Yamate and Yokohama Chinatown, Motomachi Shopping Street spans about five blocks with over 230 stores. This lively shopping area has a mix of local and international brands and hosts the Motomachi Charming Sale twice a year, drawing crowds for discounts.

Motomachi was once a small village of farmers and fishermen until the Port of Yokohama opened. The growing number of foreign residents commuting between Yamate and Kannai led to shops catering to their tastes on Motomachi Street. By the 1970s and 1980s, Motomachi became known for the "Hama Tora" fashion trend among young women, with stores like Fukuzo, Mihama, and Kitamura leading the way.