Things To Do
in Motomachi

Motomachi, Japan is a charming district located in the city of Yokohama, known for its historical Western-style buildings and vibrant atmosphere. The area is renowned for its picturesque streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, offering a delightful blend of Japanese and Western culture. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the waterfront and nearby hills, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls.

Additionally, Motomachi hosts various cultural events throughout the year, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Historical Motomachi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Motomachi Shopping Street, where you can enjoy breakfast at a local cafe and explore the unique shops.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Yokohama Chinatown for a delicious lunch and then head to the Yamate Italian Garden, a beautiful park with historic buildings.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, followed by a relaxing walk along the waterfront to take in the sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Insights and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Hikawamaru, a historic ship turned museum, and learn about maritime history.

afternoon
:

Take a short trip to Sankeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden, for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Return to Motomachi for dinner at a cozy izakaya and experience the local nightlife in the area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$5
🍺Local Beer$7
🥡Street Food Snack$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
  • Diverse culinary scene with local and international flavors
  • Picturesque views and walkable streets
  • Limited English signage in some areas
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons
  • Higher prices in tourist hotspots
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious

Places to Visit in Motomachi

Visit one of these nice places.

Motomachi Shopping Street

A picturesque street with beautiful Western-style architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Motomachi.

Yamate Italian Garden

This serene garden offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is ideal for nature photography.

Yokohama Bay

The waterfront area provides breathtaking sunset views, making it a great spot for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Motomachi

Motomachi offers a delightful culinary experience with a mixture of traditional Japanese flavors and international influences.

Motomachi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shumai

A type of steamed dumpling filled with pork and shrimp, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Must-Try!

Yokohama-style Ramen

A rich and flavorful ramen dish that is a local favorite, featuring a soy-based broth and fresh toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yokohama Street Market

A vibrant market offering various street foods, including takoyaki and yakitori, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Motomachi experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring (March to May) sees temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), perfect for outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) offers cooler weather and beautiful foliage, while winter (December to February) is mild, with temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in public spaces and avoid loud conversations.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Behavior

Keep noise to a minimum on public transportation and in public spaces to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Motomachi is generally a safe area with low crime rates. However, like any urban setting, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are prompt, and it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Motomachi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, as excellent service is expected; however, rounding up is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, especially in parks like Sankeien Garden.

Summer

Warm temperatures can lead to humid conditions; plan for water activities and evening festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage make this a picturesque time to explore the area.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, but the holiday decorations and events create a festive atmosphere in the district.

Nightlife Guide

Motomachi at Night

The nightlife in Motomachi is vibrant yet laid-back, with a variety of izakayas, bars, and live music venues. Visitors can enjoy local drinks and dishes while mingling with locals and other travelers. Live music events and cultural performances are common, making it a lively area to experience Japan's modern and traditional entertainment.

Hiking in Motomachi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sankei-en Garden Trail

A scenic walking trail through the beautiful Sankei-en Garden, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and lush landscapes.

Mt. Hikurangi

A challenging hike that rewards climbers with stunning views of Yokohama and beyond, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Motomachi by plane.

Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND)

Located about 30 minutes away by train, this major airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the most convenient option for reaching Motomachi.

Getting Around

Walkability

Motomachi is highly walkable, featuring well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and plenty of attractions within close proximity. Visitors can easily explore the area on foot, with many cafes, shops, and parks located just a short stroll from each other.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The area is home to a mix of families and young professionals, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.

Tourists

Motomachi attracts both domestic and international tourists, drawn by its historical charm and cultural offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, with local teams attracting large crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base in Yokohama, with the local J-League team drawing significant support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Motomachi is generally manageable, with good public transportation options including buses and trains. The area is well-connected, making it easy to navigate without a car. Public transport is usually punctual and efficient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Motomachi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Motomachi offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff to avoid hidden animal products.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options are limited, some places provide rice-based meals and can accommodate dietary needs upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Motomachi is excellent, with numerous clinics and hospitals offering quality medical services. Emergency services are prompt, and many healthcare providers speak basic English, making it easier for travelers to receive care if needed.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide