Yokohama Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Yokohama

Yokohama is the second-largest city in Japan. Located on Tokyo Bay, the city was once a small fishing port. It became the location of the first foreign trading port in Japan, which led to its rapid expansion. The port was primarily used for transporting silk through the 20th century.

With its long history as an important area for trade and commerce, some of the world's most successful companies are based in Yokohama. These include Nissan, Isuzu, JVCKenwood and Keikyu. Yokohama also enjoys being the first city to offer beer manufacturing, daily newspapers, a railroad and a power plant.

Yokohama has had its share of devastation. The Great Kanto earthquake of 1923 destroyed most of the city. Rebuilding efforts quickly went into place but the city once again suffered from air raids during World War II. Many of the most important buildings in the city were not fully reconstructed until the late 20th century.

Visitors to Yokohama will now find a historic city where ultra-modern architecture unites with ancient charm. Some of the older buildings in the city that have been refurbished include the Red Brick Warehouse and Kanteibyo Temple. The Red Brick Warehouse is now largely used as a shopping center while the Kanteibyo Temple is an important piece of culture in the midst of the city.

Yokohama is also known for shopping. There are numerous pedestrian shopping streets that cater to those looking for souvenirs, delicious food, people watching or all three. Motomachi Shopping Street and Ichiba-Dori Shopping Street are two pedestrian areas. Shopping in Yokohama is fun and safe.

One of the most notable sights in Yokohama is the Landmark Tower with its breathtaking, 360-degree views of the city. Visitors should not forget to spend some time in Japan's first Chinatown or enjoy the CupNoodles Museum.

Take this self-paced walking tour to see many of the most beautiful, historical and culturally significant sights of Yokohama, Japan.