Red Brick Warehouse, Yokohama

The Red Brick Warehouse is one of Yokohama’s most recognizable landmarks, reflecting the city’s evolution from an international trading port into a modern cultural destination. The complex was planned as part of Yokohama’s harbour development in the late 19th century and was designed to handle incoming freight at the Port of Yokohama. Its two red-brick buildings were completed in 1913 and combine elements of Western European classicism with Japanese architectural sensibilities.

The warehouses served as customs-bonded facilities, storing imported goods before they entered the domestic market. After being abandoned in 1989, the complex was reopened in 2002 as the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.

Inside, the industrial brick-and-steel architecture has been fully revitalized, creating a relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere. Walk forward from the main park pathway and head to the upper level of Building One to find its theatre hall. Located on the third floor, this approximately 300-seat venue serves as a dedicated space for the performing arts. The building also functions as a multi-level event venue, hosting art exhibitions, film festivals, music competitions, theatrical productions, and other cultural programmes.

For the next highlight, leave Building One, cross the courtyard, and make your way to the second floor of the adjacent Building Two. Running along the harbour-facing side of the structure is a spacious open-air balcony and wooden viewing deck. This area forms part of a three-story shopping and dining complex lined with restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. Stepping onto the balcony allows you to relax and enjoy panoramic views of the waterfront promenade, with the Yokohama Landmark Tower and the illuminated Ferris wheel creating a particularly romantic scene after dark.

Back at ground level, look into the wide passage between the two buildings to find the central event plaza. This open-air public square serves as a vibrant gathering space that regularly hosts concerts, seasonal markets, and food festivals. Throughout the year, the plaza transforms to accommodate major events, including the popular autumn Oktoberfest, the festive winter Christmas Market, and a seasonal outdoor ice-skating rink.