This is an interactive guide based on the Wikipedia article about Yokohama. Read the full source article here. (opens in new tab)

Yokohama: Maritime Metropolis & Modern Gateway

Discover the evolution of Japan's second-largest city, from a humble fishing village to a global hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.

Explore Yokohama 👇 Key Sights 🏛️

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!


When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Yokohama: An Overview

Port City Dynamics

Yokohama stands as Japan's second-largest city by population and area, and its most populous municipality. Situated on Tokyo Bay, south of Tokyo, it serves as the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture and is a vital economic, cultural, and commercial center within the Greater Tokyo Area and the Keihin Industrial Zone.

Global Connections

Following the end of Japan's isolationist policy in 1859, Yokohama rapidly emerged as a crucial port for international trade. Its history is marked by numerous "firsts" in Japan's modernization, establishing it as a cosmopolitan gateway that continues to shape the nation's global interactions.

Urban Landscape

Characterized by its distinctive waterfront development, exemplified by Minato Mirai 21, Yokohama blends historical charm with futuristic architecture. The city's growth has been influenced by its geography, necessitating innovative urban planning and land reclamation.

Etymology

Meaning of Yokohama

The name "Yokohama" (横浜) translates to "horizontal beach." This designation originates from the geographical feature of a sandbar that extended horizontally from the mainland into the bay, defining the original fishing village. This unique formation played a role in the area's early development and maritime significance.

Historical Evolution

Opening the Port (1859-1868)

Prior to the mid-19th century, Yokohama was a modest fishing village. The arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry in 1853-54 compelled Japan to open its ports. Initially, Kanagawa-juku was designated, but the Tokugawa shogunate opted for the nearby village of Yokohama. The Port of Yokohama officially opened in 1859, quickly becoming Japan's primary hub for foreign trade, particularly in silk, and attracting a diverse international community.

Meiji & Taisho Eras (1868-1923)

Following the Meiji Restoration, Yokohama spearheaded Japan's modernization. It saw the establishment of the country's first daily newspaper, gas street lamps, and the inaugural railway connecting to Tokyo. Western influences permeated the city, fostering advancements in technology, commerce, and lifestyle. Despite challenges like the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, which devastated the city, Yokohama's resilience and forward-looking development continued.

WWII and Reconstruction

Yokohama faced significant destruction during World War II due to Allied bombing raids, most notably the Great Yokohama Air Raid in May 1945. Post-war, it served as a vital base for American forces during the Korean War. The subsequent reconstruction efforts transformed the war-torn city, laying the groundwork for its modern resurgence.

Geography & Climate

Topography and Location

Yokohama covers 437.38 km² (168.87 sq mi) on the Kantō Plain, bordering Tokyo Bay. Its coastal location and surrounding hills have historically influenced its urban expansion, often requiring land reclamation projects. The Tsurumi River is its primary waterway.

Climate Profile

Yokohama experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen: Cfa), characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, often sunny winters. Temperatures rarely fall below freezing, while summer humidity can make conditions feel warmer. The city is susceptible to seismic activity due to its location within the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Climate Data for Yokohama (1991–2020 Normals, Extremes 1896–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record High °C (°F) 20.8
(69.4)
24.8
(76.6)
24.5
(76.1)
28.7
(83.7)
31.3
(88.3)
36.1
(97.0)
37.2
(99.0)
38.1
(100.6)
36.2
(97.2)
32.4
(90.3)
26.2
(79.2)
23.7
(74.7)
38.1
(100.6)
Mean Daily Max °C (°F) 10.2
(50.4)
10.8
(51.4)
14.0
(57.2)
18.9
(66.0)
23.1
(73.6)
25.5
(77.9)
29.4
(84.9)
31.0
(87.8)
27.3
(81.1)
22.0
(71.6)
17.1
(62.8)
12.5
(54.5)
20.2
(68.4)
Daily Mean °C (°F) 6.1
(43.0)
6.7
(44.1)
9.7
(49.5)
14.5
(58.1)
18.8
(65.8)
21.8
(71.2)
25.6
(78.1)
27.0
(80.6)
23.7
(74.7)
18.5
(65.3)
13.4
(56.1)
8.7
(47.7)
16.2
(61.2)
Mean Daily Min °C (°F) 2.7
(36.9)
3.1
(37.6)
6.0
(42.8)
10.7
(51.3)
15.5
(59.9)
19.1
(66.4)
22.9
(73.2)
24.3
(75.7)
21.0
(69.8)
15.7
(60.3)
10.1
(50.2)
5.2
(41.4)
13.0
(55.4)
Record Low °C (°F) −8.2
(17.2)
−6.8
(19.8)
−4.6
(23.7)
−0.5
(31.1)
3.6
(38.5)
9.2
(48.6)
13.3
(55.9)
15.5
(59.9)
11.2
(52.2)
2.2
(36.0)
−2.4
(27.7)
−5.6
(21.9)
−8.2
(17.2)
Average Precipitation mm (inches) 64.7
(2.55)
64.7
(2.55)
139.5
(5.49)
143.1
(5.63)
152.6
(6.01)
188.8
(7.43)
182.5
(7.19)
139.0
(5.47)
241.5
(9.51)
240.4
(9.46)
107.6
(4.24)
66.4
(2.61)
1,730.8
(68.14)
Average Snowfall cm (inches) 4
(1.6)
4
(1.6)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
9
(3.5)
Average Precipitation Days (<0.5 mm) 5.7 6.3 11.0 10.7 11.1 13.5 12.0 8.8 12.7 12.1 8.6 6.2 118.8
Average Relative Humidity (%) 53 54 60 65 70 78 78 76 76 71 65 57 67
Mean Monthly Sunshine Hours 192.7 167.2 168.8 181.2 187.4 135.9 170.9 206.4 141.2 137.3 151.1 178.1 2,018.3

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency

Population & Demographics

Population Growth

As of June 2024, Yokohama's population exceeds 3.77 million, making it Japan's second most populous city. The city exhibits high population density, particularly in its central wards. While many residents commute to Tokyo for work, Yokohama remains a significant economic center in its own right.

International Community

Yokohama hosts a substantial foreign national population, primarily from Asian countries like China, South Korea, and Vietnam. Significant communities from Brazil, the United States, Peru, the UK, and Germany also contribute to the city's diverse cultural fabric.

Administration & Governance

Municipal Structure

Yokohama operates as one of Japan's 20 designated cities, granting it significant administrative autonomy. The city is divided into 18 wards, each with administrative functions. The City Hall is located in Naka Ward, and the City Council comprises 86 elected members. Takeharu Yamanaka currently serves as the Mayor.

Wards of Yokohama
Ward Name Kanji Population (Approx.) Area (km²) Density (/km²)
Aoba-ku 青葉区 302,643 35.14 8,610
Asahi-ku 旭区 249,045 32.77 7,600
Hodogaya-ku 保土ヶ谷区 205,887 21.81 9,400
Isogo-ku 磯子区 163,406 19.17 8,520
Izumi-ku 泉区 155,674 23.51 6,620
Kanagawa-ku 神奈川区 230,401 23.88 9,650
Kanazawa-ku 金沢区 209,565 31.01 6,760
Kōhoku-ku 港北区 332,488 31.40 10,588
Kōnan-ku 港南区 221,536 19.87 11,500
Midori-ku 緑区 176,038 25.42 6,900
Minami-ku 南区 197,019 12.67 15,500
Naka-ku (Administrative Center) 中区 146,563 20.86 7,030
Nishi-ku 西区 93,210 7.04 13,210
Sakae-ku 栄区 124,845 18.55 6,750
Seya-ku 瀬谷区 126,839 17.11 7,390
Totsuka-ku 戸塚区 274,783 35.70 7,697
Tsurumi-ku 鶴見区 270,433 33.23 8,140
Tsuzuki-ku 都筑区 211,455 27.93 7,535

Economic Engine

Industrial Hub

Yokohama's Gross Regional Product was approximately 14.06 trillion yen in 2020. Key sectors include wholesale and retail, healthcare, and professional/technological services. The city is the headquarters for major corporations such as Nissan, Isuzu, JVCKenwood, and Koei Tecmo.

Maritime Commerce

As a major port city, maritime transport and logistics are central to Yokohama's economy. Its port ranks among the world's busiest, facilitating significant international trade and cargo volume. The APM Terminals Yokohama facility is recognized globally for its productivity.

Culture & Attractions

Landmarks and Districts

Yokohama offers a rich tapestry of attractions, from the futuristic skyline of Minato Mirai 21 to the historic charm of Yamashita Park and the vibrant Yokohama Chinatown. Other notable sites include the Yokohama Marine Tower, the Hikawa Maru ship, and the Sankei-en Garden.

Museums and Heritage

The city boasts numerous museums catering to diverse interests, including the CupNoodles Museum, Yokohama Museum of Art, Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Cultural History, and the Yokohama Silk Museum. These institutions preserve and showcase the city's unique history and cultural contributions.

  • CupNoodles Museum Yokohama
  • Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Cultural History
  • Kanazawa Bunko
  • Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
  • Yokohama Archives of History
  • Yokohama Museum of Art
  • Yokohama Silk Museum

Sports & Recreation

Major Venues

Yokohama is a significant sports hub, hosting major venues like the Yokohama Stadium (home to the Yokohama DeNA BayStars baseball team), Yokohama Arena, and Nissan Stadium, which famously hosted the 2002 FIFA World Cup final. The city supports professional teams across baseball, football, basketball, and rugby.

Sporting Culture

From professional baseball and football leagues to recreational facilities like the Kagetsu-en Velodrome and Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, sports are integral to Yokohama's identity. The city actively promotes athletic participation and hosts major sporting events.

Transportation Network

Rail Connectivity

Yokohama is well-connected via Japan's extensive rail network. The Tokaido Shinkansen stops at Shin-Yokohama Station, while Yokohama Station serves as a major transit hub for JR East lines (Tokaido Main, Yokosuka, Keihin-Tohoku, Negishi, Yokohama) and private railways like Keikyu, Tokyu, and Sagami.

Air and Sea Access

While Yokohama lacks its own airport, it is conveniently served by Tokyo's Haneda and Narita International Airports. Maritime transport remains crucial, with Yokohama Port being a major international gateway and one of the world's busiest seaports.

Educational Institutions

Academic Hub

Yokohama hosts a robust educational infrastructure, including numerous public and private schools. Yokohama National University is a prominent institution, alongside several other universities and colleges, contributing to a student population of approximately 83,000. The city also maintains an extensive network of 19 public libraries.

Yokohama in Popular Culture

Cultural Resonance

Yokohama's unique blend of history, modernity, and international influence has made it a popular setting in literature, film, and anime. From Jules Verne's "Around the World in Eighty Days" to Studio Ghibli's "From Up on Poppy Hill" and the video game "Yakuza: Like a Dragon," the city's distinctive atmosphere is frequently celebrated.

Global Partnerships

Sister and Partner Cities

Yokohama maintains sister city relationships with Lyon (France), Manila (Philippines), Mumbai (India), Odesa (Ukraine), San Diego (USA), Shanghai (China), and Vancouver (Canada), among others. It also has partner city agreements with locations like Brisbane and Melbourne (Australia), fostering international cooperation and cultural exchange.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio
Click here to open the "Yokohama" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about yokohama while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

                                        

References

References

  1.  Although Tokyo has over 10 million more people than Yokohama, there has been no single Tokyo municipality since 1943.
A full list of references for this article are available at the Yokohama Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding travel, history, or urban planning. Always consult official sources and qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.