Family Adventures in Yokohama
Nestled just a stone's throw away from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, Yokohama offers a great escape for travelers seeking a blend of affordability, convenience, and family-friendly activities.
My frequent visits to Japan often lead me to this vibrant city, where accommodation costs are more manageable than in Tokyo, and its proximity to Haneda Airport makes it a prime location for exploration.
Let me take you on a journey through some of the highlights of our family adventures in Yokohama, Japan.
What’s in Yokohama
Yokohama Air Cabin
Anpanman Museum
Cup Noodle Museum
Hapipi Land Yokohama
Where to Stay in Yokohama
1.Cable Car Ride - Yokohama Air Cabin
Embarking on an urban-style circular ropeway adventure, we found ourselves aboard the Yokohama Air Cabin, linking JR Sakuragicho station to the charming Unga Park.
With tickets priced at 1,000 yen for a one-way journey or 1,800 yen for a round trip, this five-minute ride offers not only ease of access but also a thrilling experience for the whole family. As we soared above the cityscape, gazing upon the serene canal and bustling streets below, our children were filled with a delightful mix of nerves and excitement - an experience etched into our memories forever.
2. Anpanman Museum
Anpanman is a beloved superhero character in Japanese popular culture, especially among children. Anpanman’s head is made of anpan, a sweet roll filled with red bean paste, hence the name "Anpanman". He has a noble mission to protect the world from evil and bring happiness to children. Anpanman's unique power lies in his ability to replenish his energy by taking bites of his own head.
Anpanman Museum in Yokohama, Japan, is a whimsical and enchanting destination located in the Minato Mirai 21 area of Yokohama. 10 minutes walk from JR Yokohama station, or 3 minutes from Shin Takashima station on the MinatoMirai line.
Tickets price 2,200 yen - 2,600 yen depending on the date you are going. This is to enter the museum spaces. But you may enter the shops and restaurants on the first floor for free.
One of the highlights of the museum is the interactive exhibits that allow children to engage in hands-on activities. They can explore Anpanman's world through various play areas, including a bakery where they can make their own bread, and a playground where they can climb and slide amidst cheerful Anpanman-themed structures.
The museum also features a theater where visitors can watch Anpanman cartoons and live performances featuring costumed characters.
3.Cup Noodle Museum
Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama, Japan, is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to one of the most iconic and globally recognized instant noodle brands: Cup Noodles. Created by Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin Foods, Cup Noodles revolutionized the way people consume instant noodles by introducing the concept of a portable, convenient, and self-contained meal in a cup.
We learned about the origins of instant noodles and the story behind Momofuku Ando's invention of Cup Noodles. Exhibits showcase the evolution of instant noodles over time and their significance in global cuisine.
One of the most popular attractions at the museum is the "My Cup Noodles Factory," where visitors can create their own personalized Cup Noodle for 500 yen each. It was an interesting experience choosing the toppings to designing the cup's packaging.
A playful Cupnoodles Park and Chicken Ramen Factory were also a fun part of this Museum for our young children.
The admission fee costs 500 yen each. It’s a convenient 10 minutes walk from MinatoMirai station.
4.Hapipiland by Yokohama Station
Seeking shelter from the elements, we found refuge within the vibrant confines of Hapipiland, nestled inside the Asobuild building near Yokohama station.
A two-minute stroll from the station, this indoor play haven proved to be a sanctuary for energetic children. With a lot of activities including trampolines, digital art spaces, and even a ball pool, there's no shortage of entertainment to be found within its walls.
Priced at 1,300 yen per child for 60 minutes of playtime (with a nominal fee of 500 yen for adults), Hapipiland offers the perfect respite on rainy days or scorching afternoons.
5.Where to Stay in Yokohama
During our recent trip in 2023, we chose to lodge at The Kahala Hotel and Resort Yokohama, located in the heart of Yokohama.
Boasting a commanding view of the picturesque Yokohama Bay, this branch of the famed Kahala hotel from Honolulu, Hawaii, welcomed us with its spacious rooms and deep bathtubs - perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. While slightly farther from the city center, its proximity to the MinatoMirai station provided convenient access to Yokohama's myriad attractions.
Past stays at the InterContinental Yokohama Grand Hotel and Oakwood Suites Yokohama have also left us with fond memories, testament to the city's diverse accommodation options.
Lastly:
As the sun sets on another unforgettable adventure in Yokohama, I'm reminded once again of the city's unique charm and boundless opportunities for family fun. From the tranquil vistas of Yokohama Bay to the exhilarating rides aboard the Yokohama Air Cabin, each moment spent in this vibrant city leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly accommodation, convenient transport links, or a plethora of family-friendly activities, Yokohama stands ready to welcome you with open arms.
