Chinatown Yokohama – Asia’s Largest Chinatown

Yokohama Chinatown is the biggest in Asia and one of the largest in the world. It covers around 10 blocks of streets and laneways. The area sits just 500 meters from Yokohama Harbour. This was the first place foreigners could live after Japan opened its borders in 1859. Chinese immigrants settled here and built a vibrant community. Today, it feels like a mini China in the middle of Japan.

The streets are lined with Chinese grocery stores. You see fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, spices, and Chinese medicine shops. There are fortune tellers, tea shops, and stores selling kitchen tools and decorations. But the real star is the food. Hundreds of restaurants serve every style of Chinese cuisine. North China dishes like Peking Duck. Shanghai soup dumplings. Cantonese yum cha and dim sum. Spicy Sichuan food. Even simple favourites like sweet and sour pork. Prices are reasonable. A meal here is often cheaper and more authentic than in Tokyo – even after the train fare.

On weekends, the area gets very busy. Visitors come from Yokohama and Tokyo. The streets fill with people eating, shopping, and taking photos.

Two Main Chinese Temples

Yokohama Chinatown has two important Chinese temples.

• Mazu Miao Temple: This is the largest. It opened on March 17, 2006. It sits across from the China Museum. The temple honours Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea. Many locals pray here for safe travels and good fortune.
• Kwan Tai Temple: Located on the corner of Kwan Tai Street and Chuzan Ro, near the centre. It honours Kwan Tai, a famous general from around 200 AD in the Chinese Imperial Army. The temple is small but beautiful and full of history.

Both temples are active places of worship. Dress respectfully and be quiet.

Food Highlights in Yokohama Chinatown

You will not go hungry here. Restaurants cover every Chinese style. Try:

• Peking Duck (crispy skin, thin pancakes)
• Xiao long bao (soup dumplings)
• Dim sum (steamed buns, siu mai, har gow)
• Sichuan hotpot or mapo tofu (very spicy)
• Sweet and sour pork or kung pao chicken

Street vendors sell quick bites like BBQ pork buns, steamed dumplings, and roasted chestnuts. Perfect for walking and snacking.

Nearby Attractions

Just 500 meters from Chinatown is Yamashita Park. It sits on the Yokohama harbour front. The park has nice views of ships, the bay, and the skyline. Great for a walk after eating.

Other close spots:

• Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (10-minute walk): Historic buildings with shops, cafes, and events.
• Minato Mirai (short train or walk): Modern area with Cosmo Clock Ferris wheel, shopping malls, and waterfront.
• Cup Noodles Museum (nearby): Fun museum about instant ramen history.

How to Get to Yokohama Chinatown

It is easy from Tokyo. Takes about 45 minutes total.From Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ebisu:

• Take JR Yamanote Line or Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Platform 1 to Yokohama Station (30 minutes).
• At Yokohama Station, change to the JR Negishi Line (platforms 3/4) to Ishikawacho Station (3 stops, 7 minutes).
• Exit North at Ishikawacho Station.
• Walk 5 minutes to Chinatown. Follow the crowds or signs.

Alternative: From Tokyo Station, take JR Keihin-Tohoku Line or Tokaido Line direct to Yokohama, then same transfer.

Best time: Weekends for lively atmosphere. Weekdays for quieter visits.Yokohama Chinatown gives you authentic Chinese food, culture, and temples in a walkable area. It is a perfect half-day trip from Tokyo. Eat, explore, and enjoy the energy of Asia’s largest Chinatown.

Have you been to Yokohama Chinatown? What is your favourite dish? Share below!

Check out the location of Yokohama Chinatown