Growing up in Yokohama from the age of ten until I turned 21 shaped who I am in ways that I’m still discovering. It wasn’t just a backdrop for my youth; it was the place where my most cherished memories were forged, and its streets and sounds were etched into the core of my being. Even after moving to the U.S., Yokohama remains a beacon of nostalgia and fondness that pulls at my heartstrings every time I think of home.
I revisit places in Yokohama I enjoyed as a teenager and discover new places developed since I left Japan, from the awe-inspiring Landmark Tower, Japan’s tallest building, where my friends and I would race to the observation deck to catch the sunset, to the quirky and educational Ramen Museum. We’d hop from one ramen station to another, slurping down different regional flavors from across Japan, each bowl telling its own story of ingredients and craftsmanship.
But it’s not just the landmarks that make Yokohama special; it’s also the small, everyday things. Take, for example, Yokohama’s Chinatown, one of the largest in the world. Bill and I have a particular fondness for this colorful, lively area. Walking through the streets lined with traditional Chinese lanterns and bustling markets always feels like stepping into a festival. We’d weave through the crowd, drawn by the irresistible smells of steamed buns and fried rice, sampling dumplings and sharing laughs over street food delights.
Our favorite haunt, though, was Minato Mirai. This waterfront area was our escape, a place where we could enjoy the cityscape, the fresh breeze off the bay, and the vibrant energy of life around us. Strolling along the boardwalk, we’d often end up at the Red Brick Warehouse, a historic building turned into a bustling shopping and dining area, perfect for date nights or family outings.
Sankeien Garden was another retreat. There, we’d lose ourselves among the tranquil ponds, the arching bridges, and the meticulously maintained traditional houses and tea rooms transported from different parts of Japan. Each visit felt like a step back in time, a quiet moment to reflect amid the chaos of city life.
Even as I live in the U.S. now, Yokohama remains vividly alive in my heart. It’s more than just a city; it’s a part of my soul. I treasure the blend of its serene gardens and hectic street scenes, its skyscrapers and ramen bowls. Yokohama is truly a city with something for everyone, but for me, it will always be home. Whenever someone asks for travel tips about Japan, I can’t help but gush, offering a list of must-sees and personal favorites. Yokohama is not just a place you visit; it’s an experience you live, and I feel lucky to have had it shape part of my story.
