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The Guardian of Water, one of the landmarks at Yamashita Garden.
The statue was donated by Yokohama’s sister city, San Diego, California, as a gesture of friendship and cultural exchange. |
Visiting Yokohama in December feels
like stepping into a living postcard. After marveling at the towering
life-sized Gundam at the GundamFactory Yokohama, I wandered just a short walk away to Yamashita Park
— a waterfront haven that instantly captivated me.
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| Massive Hikawa Maru docked at The Port of Yokohama adding a scenic view at the garden |
The Gundam Factory sits right by the
port, and Yamashita Park is only about a 10-minute walk along the bay. The stroll itself is
part of the experience: the salty breeze, the sight of ships docked nearby, and
the anticipation of discovering one of Yokohama’s most beloved parks.
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| Cosmo World, a well-known seaside theme park in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district is visible at the Yamashita Park |
As a
first-time visitor, I was awed by the open expanse facing the sea. December’s crisp air made the view even sharper
— the Bay Bridge stretched gracefully across the
horizon, and the Marine Tower
peeked from behind the trees. Couples strolled hand in hand, families gathered
for photos, and joggers passed by with the rhythm of the waves as their
soundtrack.
It felt like the city had given me a gift: a place where urban life and seaside calm coexist
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| Flowers still bloom even in December |
Things to Do in Yamashita Park
Stroll the Promenade: The long walkway along the bay is perfect for soaking in the scenery. Benches line the path, inviting you to pause and watch ships glide by.
Visit the Hikawa Maru: This historic ocean liner, now a museum, is docked right beside the park. Its elegant silhouette adds character to the waterfront.
Relax at the
Grass Lawn: Families spread picnic mats, children play, and locals simply
lie back to enjoy the sea breeze.
Catch Street Performances: Musicians and artists often set up along the promenade, adding a lively vibe to the serene setting.
 |
| Beautiful flowers at Yamashita Park |
Though
December isn’t peak bloom season, Yamashita Park’s flowerbeds still surprise visitors. Winter pansies and ornamental
cabbages add pops of color against the green lawns. The rose garden, though
subdued in winter, carries the promise of spring. As I walked past, I imagined
how vibrant it must look in May, when roses of every shade burst into life.
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| The Guardian of the Water : The statue emphasizes the role of water as a life-giving force and a bond between cultures across the Pacific. |
What to Expect as a First-Timer
Scenery that feels cinematic: The juxtaposition of sea, ships, and skyline makes every angle photo-worthy.
Peacefulatmosphere: Despite being a popular spot, the park’s vastness ensures it never feels crowded.
Culturaltouchpoints: From the Hikawa Maru to the Marine Tower, history and modernity blend seamlessly.
Seasonal charm: December brings crisp air, fewer crowds, and a tranquil vibe — perfect for reflection after the excitement of Gundam Factory.
 |
| My son Ocean Sora Simon enjoying the view with the Yokohama Marine Tower at the back |
I remember sitting on a bench facing the bay, the Gundam still fresh in
my mind. The mechanical giant had stirred my imagination, but Yamashita Park
grounded me back to reality --- I mean, nature. The sound of waves against the seawall, the laughter of children chasing pigeons, and the sight of elderly couples enjoying
the winter sun — it all felt profoundly human.
 |
| Just feels wonderful being here |
It was as if Yokohama whispered: “Yes, marvel at our futuristic
Gundam, but don’t forget the timeless beauty of the sea.”
 |
| I promise, I'm gonna be back |
To reach Yamashita Park in Yokohama, the fastest route is taking the MInatomirai Line to Motomachi-Chukagai Station. Take Exit 4 and walk 3~5 minutes to the park. If traveling from Tokyo, take the Tokyu Toyoko Line directly to the Minatomirai Line (45–50 minutes).
Getting to the park is highly convenient with several public transit and scenic options depending on your starting point:
- From Yokohama Station: Take the Minatomirai Line to Motomachi-Chukagai Station (the last stop on the line). The journey takes 8 minutes, costs 230 yen, and from there, the eastern end of the park is just a 5-minute walk from Exit 4.
- From Nihon-Odori Station: If you are at the northern end of the park, this subway station is only a 5-minute walk away.
- Akai Kutsu Loop Bus: This retro-style red sightseeing bus services Yokohama's main districts and stops directly at Yamashita Park. A one-way ride costs 220 yen, or you can buy a 600-yen day pass.
- Bayside Blue Bus: Another convenient city-operated bus line connecting central Yokohama.
By Sea Bass (Most Scenic)
- Water Bus: For a scenic harbor introduction, ride the Sea Bass water bus. Boats depart from the Yokohama Bay Quarter (500 meters from Yokohama Station's east exit) and dock directly at the Yamashita Park pier.
- The park is connected to a 500-meter pedestrian boardwalk leading directly from the Osanbashi Pier and the Red Brick Warehouse complex.
- You can also reach the park on foot from Yokohama Chinatown in about 5 minutes.
Have you been here? Share your stories.
Other blog on #MyJapanTravelSeries :
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