Yokohama Parks and Gardens

(Yokohama, Kanto, Honshu, Japan)



Photo of the tranquil Sankei-en GardenNever let it be said that Yokohama is short of parks, gardens and green spaces. Top of most people's list for classic Japanese ambiance and attractions in Yokohama would be the stunning Sankei-en Garden, where traditional lanterns stand next to many of the pathways and stepping stones.

Also of interest is French Hill Park - best known for its stunning views across Yokohama Bay, Grand Mall Park - with a series of gardens that surround much of the Minato Mirai 21 complex, and Yokohama Park itself - host to many seasonal events and open-air concerts. The city's top parks and gardens are displayed here.


Different view of the Sankei-en Garden and temple

Sankei-en Garden

Address: 58-1 Honmoko-sannotani, Yokohama, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 045 621 0634
Arguably the highlight of Yokohama, this wonderful garden park is more than 100 years old and contains a dozen or so historic buildings, which were transplanted from around Japan. Interspersed among the centuries-old pagodas, tea houses and pavilions within Sankei-en Garden are classic Japanese-style gardens crisscrossed by meandering streams and ponds. The cherry blossoms in spring are fantastic, but the garden showcases its beauty year-round.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

Odori Park

Address: 2-1 Yamabukicho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 045 252 9153
Odori Park may be narrow, but it stretches for over around 1.5 km / 1 mile right through the centre of Isezaki-cho. This pleasant green space has an interesting artistic element to it. It has been divided into different sections such as the Stone Plaza and the Water Plaza, where each theme is explored through the landscaping and sculpture, which adorn the grounds. Plenty of big trees and soft grass make this an ideal place to take a break from exploring the city.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: no charge

French Hill Park

Address: 230 Yamatecho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, 231-0861, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 045 641 1971
Enjoying an impressive elevated situation and overlooking much of Yokohama Bay, the French Hill Park was once home to a particularly grand building, known as the French Legation, which was destroyed in a devastating earthquake during the early 1920s. Today, all that remains of this structure is a small plaque and the magnificent gardens and views that once surrounded the house. With mature trees, pathways and plenty of open spaces, French Hill Park is a great place to come if you wish to escape city life for the day.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 08:00 to 18:00
Admission: no charge

Grand Mall Park

Address: 2 Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, 220-0012, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 045 211 0111
Encompassing a group of several gardens, Grand Mall Park lies within the city's modern Minato Mirai 21 complex, contrasting with its dramatic architecture and offering an important green space. The main garden areas are centred around Yokohama's Art Plaza, the Cross Patio, and also the nearby Yoyo Plaza, featuring a number of outdoor sculptures and seating areas, where you can people-watch at your leisure.
Open hours: daily
Admission: no charge

Kodomo-no-Kuni Park and Zoo

Address: 700 Naracho, Aoba-ku, Yokohama, 227-0036, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 045 961 2111
A huge expanse of city parkland, covering more than 200 acres / 80 hectares, Yokohama's Kodomo-no-Kuni Park is particularly appealing to families and children. Seasonal attractions include outdoor pools, boating ponds, fishing, and even a dairy farm complete with its own farmshop. Worth looking out for is the small petting zoo, where you will find a host of friendly animals that enjoy being stroked.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 10:00 to 20:00
Admission: no charge

Motomachi Park

Address: 1-77-5 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Yokohama, 231-0861, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 045 641 1217
Just a short distance away from a good selection of shops, Motomachi Park is especially popular with locals, who enjoy coming here at lunchtimes. Large stretches of lawned areas are perfect for a range of recreational activities, while for those who fancy a dip, the outdoor pool provides a great way to cool down on hot days.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 08:00 to 21:00
Admission: no charge

Yokohama Park

Address: Yokohama-koen, Naka-ku, Yokohama, 231-0823, Japan, JP
Tel: +81 045 681 7550
Yokohama Park lies within the Naka ward and is particularly close to the city's baseball stadium. The park itself was established more than 100 years ago and has evolved greatly over the years, featuring both traditional Japanese landscaping and more Western-style planting. Various outdoor events take place here each spring and summer.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 22:00
Admission: no charge