Master Yokohama Transport Japan Travel and Passes

Yokohama, Japan’s most populous city, is a captivating and popular tourist destination brimming with an exotic charm. Beyond its historical buildings, which beautifully preserve the city’s port-opening era appeal, Yokohama boasts must-visit spots like Yokohama Chinatown and Yamashita Park. And let’s not forget the captivating cityscape, where modern skyscrapers gracefully blend with natural landscapes, creating a truly unique appeal.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to seamlessly travel to Yokohama from major Tokyo stations, Narita Airport, and Haneda Airport. Even if it’s your first time visiting, we’ve got you covered! We’ve also included insider tips on navigating Yokohama’s popular districts and the best value transportation passes. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be a pro at getting around Yokohama, ready to make the most of your incredible Yokohama adventure!

Table of Contents

1. Getting to Yokohama from Major Tokyo Stations
2. Getting to Yokohama from Haneda Airport
3. Getting to Yokohama from Narita Airport
4. Getting to Popular Sightseeing Areas from Yokohama Station
5. Two Convenient Transportation Options for Yokohama Sightseeing
6. 3 Essential Value-for-Money Passes for Yokohama Sightseeing
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Yokohama Transportation
8. Conclusion

Note: All ticket prices mentioned below are accurate as of December 2024 and are subject to change.

Getting to Yokohama from Major Tokyo Stations

Connecting Tokyo and Yokohama Station, you’ll find a robust network of 6 railway lines, including 4 JR Lines (the Tokaido Main Line, Shonan Shinjuku Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Yokosuka Line) and 2 private railways (the Keikyu Line and Tokyu Toyoko Line). On average, you can zip from most major Tokyo stations to Yokohama Station in just about 28 minutes!

For all of you planning an exciting day trip from Tokyo to Yokohama, we’re here to break down the quickest routes, estimated travel times, and one-way fares from Tokyo’s main hubs.

Planning a day trip from Tokyo to Yokohama? Master the transportation options from major stations!

Getting from Tokyo Station to Yokohama Station

While there are several ways to reach Yokohama Station from Tokyo Station, the JR Tokaido Main Line stands out as both the most budget-friendly and the quickest option. Direct trains make just three stops, whisking you away in as little as 24 minutes, or up to 32 minutes at most. Service runs from 5:20 AM to 11:54 PM on both weekdays and national holidays. After 6 AM, trains are incredibly frequent, departing every 7-10 minutes, so you can hop on without a care about the timetable!

Route : From “Tokyo Station,” take the JR Tokaido Main Line and alight at “Yokohama Station.”

Travel Time : Approx. 28 minutes

One-Way Fare : 483 Yen (※ Fare when using an IC card)

Getting from Shinjuku Station to Yokohama Station

When traveling from Shinjuku Station to Yokohama Station, the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line offers the most straightforward journey, being the only direct route. Hop on a Special Rapid train and you’ll be there in 29 minutes, while local trains take about 35 minutes. Do note, though, that daytime services are less frequent, running every 15-20 minutes, so a slight misconnection could mean a longer wait. For budget-conscious travelers, consider taking the Yamanote Line inner loop towards Shibuya, then transferring to the Tokyu Toyoko Line Express. It takes a bit longer (around 50 minutes) but costs a bit less (476 Yen).

Route : From “Shinjuku Station,” take the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line and alight at “Yokohama Station.”

Travel Time : Approx. 32 minutes

One-Way Fare : 571 Yen (※ Fare when using an IC card)

Getting from Shibuya Station to Yokohama Station

From Shibuya Station to Yokohama Station, the direct JR Shonan Shinjuku Line is still your quickest bet. Alternatively, you can take the Tokyu Toyoko Line Express or Limited Express, which also gets you there in about 30 minutes. While the travel time is similar to the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line, the Tokyu Toyoko Line offers a lower fare (just 309 Yen one-way!), making it a fantastic budget-friendly option to consider.

Route : From “Shibuya Station,” take the JR Shonan Shinjuku Line and alight at “Yokohama Station.”

Travel Time : Approx. 27 minutes

One-Way Fare : 406 Yen (※ Fare when using an IC card)

Getting from Ueno Station to Yokohama Station

When departing from Ueno Station for Yokohama, the JR Ueno Tokyo Line (which essentially becomes the JR Tokaido Main Line) is your most direct and speedy option. Other routes involve transfers and can take over an hour, so we highly recommend sticking with this direct option if time is a priority. Plus, trains are frequent, departing roughly every 10 minutes, making for a smooth journey.

Route : From “Ueno Station,” take the JR Ueno Tokyo Line and alight at “Yokohama Station.”

Travel Time : Approx. 35 minutes

One-Way Fare : 571 Yen (※ Fare when using an IC card)

Getting from Shinagawa Station to Yokohama Station

Just like from Tokyo and Shibuya, the JR Tokaido Main Line from Shinagawa Station offers a speedy and economical route to Yokohama. With only one stop at Kawasaki Station, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived in the blink of an eye! While the JR Yokosuka Line and JR Keihin-Tohoku Line also serve Yokohama Station, they typically take 22 minutes or longer, so the Tokaido Line is definitely your best bet for speed.

Route : From “Shinagawa Station,” take the JR Tokaido Main Line and alight at “Yokohama Station.”

Travel Time : Approx. 17 minutes

One-Way Fare : 303 Yen (※ Fare when using an IC card)

Getting to Yokohama from Haneda Airport

For those flying into Japan via Haneda Airport and planning to head straight to Yokohama, we’ve got you covered with the best routes and travel times from the airport’s most convenient stations to Yokohama Station. You have two excellent options for getting from Haneda Airport to Yokohama Station: by train or the YCAT (Airport Limousine Bus). Both options boast frequent services, departing every 10-15 minutes, with the last departures around 11:30 PM. Notably, both these convenient transportation options depart from Terminal 2, which typically handles more international flights, making it super easy for incoming travelers. Trains offer reliable schedules and budget-friendly fares, while the YCAT guarantees you a comfortable seat. A bonus for the YCAT is its routes also include popular stops like Yamashita Park and the Red Brick Warehouse, beyond just Yokohama Station! So, whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or specific destinations, you can easily choose the best transportation method to suit your travel style and budget.

Arrive at Yokohama within 1 hour of landing at Haneda Airport

By Train

Route : 1. From “Haneda Airport,” a short 4-5 minute walk will take you to “Haneda Airport Terminal 1 & 2 Station.” 2. From “Haneda Airport Terminal 1 & 2 Station,” board the Keikyu Airport Line Express train to “Yokohama Station.” *Note: Depending on the time of day, you might need to make a quick transfer at “Keikyu Kamata Station.” *Note: For those arriving at Terminal 3, your closest station will be “Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station.”

Travel Time : Approx. 40 minutes

One-Way Fare : 397 Yen (※ Fare when using an IC card)

By YCAT (Airport Limousine Bus)

Route : 1. From “Haneda Airport,” it’s just a quick 2-3 minute walk to the “Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Bus Stop.” 2. At Platform 11 of the “Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Bus Stop,” hop on the YCAT bus heading directly to Yokohama Station, and you’ll be there in no time! *Note: You can also catch the YCAT from Terminals 1 and 3, though the exact boarding platform might vary.

Travel Time : Approx. 35 minutes (※ Please note: travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions.)

One-Way Fare : Adult 650 Yen / Child 330 Yen

Getting to Yokohama from Narita Airport

For those of you landing at Narita Airport, let’s explore the best ways to get to Yokohama. Just like Haneda, you can also reach Yokohama Station from Narita Airport by train or YCAT (Airport Limousine Bus). While both offer direct routes without transfers, it’s crucial to note that services are less frequent – typically about one per hour – and the last departures are quite early, around 9 PM. So, definitely plan your arrival time accordingly! Below, we’ve outlined the routes for both transportation options departing from Terminals 2 and 3. We’ll also share a more budget-friendly private railway option, so be sure to check it out!

Traveling from Narita Airport to Yokohama? The Narita Express (N’EX) offers a fast and comfortable journey!

By Limited Express Train

Route : 1. From “Narita Airport,” it’s about a 5-10 minute walk to “Airport Terminal 2 Station.” 2. From “Airport Terminal 2 Station,” hop on the JR Limited Express Narita Express (N’EX) (bound for Ofuna) and enjoy a direct ride to “Yokohama Station.” *Note: If you’re flying into Terminal 1, your closest station is “Narita Airport Station.”

Travel Time : Approx. 1 hour 40 minutes

One-Way Fare : 4,370 Yen (Base Fare 1,980 Yen + Reserved Seat Fee 2,390 Yen ※ Fare when using an IC card)

By Train (Private Railway)

Route : 1. From “Narita Airport,” make your way (approx. 5-10 minutes walk) to “Airport Terminal 2 Station.” 2. At “Airport Terminal 2 Station,” board the Keisei Main Line Rapid train (bound for Nishi-Magome) and get off at “Sengakuji Station.” 3. Then, at “Sengakuji Station,” transfer to the Keikyu Main Line Rapid (bound for Keikyu Kurihama), which will take you directly to “Yokohama Station.”

Welcome to Yokohama! Planning your adventure to this vibrant Japanese port city? One of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get here and how to navigate once you arrive. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s a comprehensive guide to seamless travel to and around Yokohama, filled with tips to make your trip unforgettable.

From Narita Airport to Yokohama (Implied Train Travel)

If departing from Terminal 1, the nearest station is “Narita Airport Station.”

Estimated Travel Time : Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

One-Way Fare : 1,618 JPY (when using an IC card)

Getting There by YCAT (Airport Limousine Bus)

Route : 1. From “Narita Airport,” walk approximately 2-3 minutes to “Narita Airport Terminal 2 Bus Stop.” 2. At “Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Bus Stop” Platform 15, take the YCAT bus bound for Yokohama Station and alight at “Yokohama Station.” ※Please note that you can also board from Terminal 1 or Terminal 3, but the boarding platforms will vary.

Estimated Travel Time : Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes (may vary depending on traffic conditions and schedule frequency)

One-Way Fare : Adults: 4,000 JPY / Children: 2,000 JPY

Getting Around Yokohama’s Popular Sightseeing Areas from Yokohama Station

Ready to explore? Yokohama’s diverse neighborhoods are surprisingly easy to navigate from Yokohama Station, making your visit seamless and fun! Getting to these attractions by train is incredibly easy, often just a few stops or minutes away, making it perfect for first-time visitors to Yokohama. Plus, some areas are even conveniently walkable. If you have some extra time, take a stroll and truly soak in the unique vibes of each distinct neighborhood!

Getting to Minatomirai 21 Area

The iconic ”Minatomirai 21 area” is a bustling hotspot brimming with shopping malls, diverse restaurants, and impressive large-scale facilities. Here, you’ll find Yokohama’s landmarks like the “LANDMARK TOWER” and ”Yokohama Queen’s Square”, where skyscrapers and hotel towers create a stunning cityscape that harmoniously blends historical and modern architecture. Beyond the towering structures, it also boasts a wealth of cultural facilities such as “Red Brick Warehouse” and ”Yokohama Museum of Art”, offering a wide array of activities for both adults and children to enjoy. The expansive waterfront parks and beautiful cherry blossom-lined promenades are also famous, captivating visitors with their charm in every season. As you’ll see below, this area is incredibly close to Yokohama Station, making it exceptionally convenient to access.

Route : From “Yokohama Station,” take the Minatomirai Line (bound for Motomachi-Chukagai) and alight at “Minatomirai Station.”

Estimated Travel Time : Approximately 3 minutes

One-Way Fare : 193 JPY (when using an IC card)

Minatomirai 21 Area: A popular sightseeing destination bustling with shopping malls, restaurants, and large facilities.

Getting to Kannai and Bashamichi Areas

The “Kannai and Bashamichi Areas” are incredibly charming, preserving a rich tapestry of Yokohama’s history and culture. You’ll find many buildings that retain their original appearance from the port’s opening, exuding a strong exotic atmosphere. The “Yokohama Three Towers” (Kanagawa Prefectural Government Office Main Building, Yokohama Customs, and Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall) are among the area’s most popular tourist attractions. Bashamichi, home to Japan’s first photography studio and telephone manufacturer, boasts numerous historical sites that introduced Western culture to the country. A must-visit spot is the “Gaslight Street” (Bashamichi-dori to Yamashita Park-dori), illuminated by 149 charming gas lamps. Taking a leisurely stroll under the soft glow of the gaslights feels like stepping back in time to Japan’s era of civilization and enlightenment. Access details are as follows; Kannai Station is about a 5-minute walk from Bashamichi Station.

Route : From “Yokohama Station,” take the Minatomirai Line (bound for Motomachi-Chukagai) and alight at “Bashamichi Station.”

Estimated Travel Time : Approximately 5 minutes

One-Way Fare : 193 JPY (when using an IC card)

Kannai and Bashamichi Areas: A historical district with numerous sites showcasing the introduction of Western culture.

Getting to Sakuragicho and Noge Areas

Just across Sakuragicho Station from Minatomirai lies the vibrant “Sakuragicho and Noge Areas.” This area buzzes with energy and passion, offering a distinct charm compared to the “Minatomirai 21 Area.” While skyscrapers like “LANDMARK” and “COSMO CLOCK 21” stand tall, the nearby Noge area is densely packed with traditional casual eateries and Izakaya (Japanese pubs). Dubbed “Drinking Street,” the Noge area is Yokohama’s quintessential nightlife spot, highly recommended for those who enjoy hopping between various pubs and savoring local drinks. For nature and animal lovers, the ”Nogeyama Zoo” and “Nogeyama Park” are popular attractions, offering a chance to get close to wildlife without an admission fee. If you prefer a leisurely stroll through the Noge area, you can take the Keikyu Line and alight at Hinodecho Station. Specific transportation details are below.

Route : From “Yokohama Station,” take the JR Keihin-Tohoku/Negishi Line and alight at “Sakuragicho Station.”

Estimated Travel Time : Approximately 3 minutes

One-Way Fare : 146 JPY (when using an IC card)

The area around Sakuragicho Station, lined with skyscrapers.

Noge Area, filled with traditional casual eateries and Izakaya.

Getting to Chinatown and Yamashita Park Area

This popular tourist area is famous for “Yokohama Chinatown,” the largest Chinatown in East Asia. The bustling streets, adorned with countless lanterns, are home to approximately 600 shops, including Chinese restaurants, souvenir shops, and general stores, making it a fantastic place for shopping, strolling, and indulging in delicious food. A mere 5-minute walk along a straight street from Chinatown will lead you to Yokohama’s most renowned spot, “Yamashita Park.” In this beautiful park facing Yokohama Port, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the stunning sea views. The park is steeped in history, featuring must-see attractions like the important cultural property “Hikawa Maru” and the “Girl with Red Shoes” statue. Transportation details are summarized below. Please note that other transportation options may be available depending on your starting point, so if you’re coming from a different area, please plan accordingly.

Route : From “Yokohama Station,” take the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line and alight at “Ishikawacho Station.”

Estimated Travel Time : Approximately 7 minutes

One-Way Fare : 167 JPY (when using an IC card)

Yamashita Park, Yokohama’s most renowned park.

Yokohama Chinatown: An iconic sightseeing spot in Yokohama.

Getting to Motomachi and Yamate Areas

The “Motomachi and Yamate Areas” truly embody Yokohama’s fashionable and elegant side. Motomachi Shopping Street is a treasure trove of renowned domestic and international brand stores, charming cafes, and unique 雑貨店 (zakka shops - general goods stores), making it a delightful place to simply wander and enjoy your time. Here, you’ll find many attractions where you can admire Western-style architecture and culture from the Meiji era. The adjacent Yamate area, rich in history, flourished as a hub for foreigners when Yokohama Port opened. Famous landmarks like the “Yamate Western-style Houses” and “Yokohama Foreign General Cemetery” weave together to create a charming, exotic atmosphere. Plus, from here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Yokohama Port and Minatomirai, making for an incredibly romantic setting. Access details are as follows.

Route : From “Yokohama Station,” take the Minatomirai Line (bound for Motomachi-Chukagai) and alight at “Motomachi-Chukagai Station.”

Estimated Travel Time : Approximately 10 minutes

One-Way Fare : 224 JPY (when using an IC card)

Motomachi Shopping Street, filled with domestic and international brand stores, cafes, and general stores, making it a delight to simply wander around.

Motomachi and Yamate Areas: A charming, exotic district that flourished with the arrival of foreigners when Yokohama Port opened.

Two Convenient Transportation Options for Sightseeing in Yokohama

For those who want to immerse themselves in Yokohama’s streetscapes while sightseeing, I’d like to introduce two highly recommended modes of transportation. Both of these bus routes primarily cover popular attractions, making them ideal for visitors unfamiliar with the area or those looking to join a guided tour. With their distinctive appearances, these buses are practically photo opportunities themselves, allowing you to enjoy the sightseeing experience even while on the move!

BAYSIDE BLUE Bus

The “BAYSIDE BLUE (港灣藍色巴士)” is Japan’s first articulated bus, primarily operating between Yokohama Station East Exit Bus Terminal (Boarding Area A4) and Yamashita Pier. This large bus is quite eye-catching, featuring Yokohama’s classic metallic blue color on its body. The bus is 18 meters long and can accommodate 113 passengers. The outbound and return routes differ slightly, with a one-way trip taking approximately 35-50 minutes. Along the way, it makes stops at areas like “Kannai and Bashamichi” and “Chinatown and Yamashita Park.” If you want to enjoy the city streets and scenery from the window on your way to your destination, or if you wish to efficiently tour the area, the BAYSIDE BLUE bus is an excellent choice. However, a minor drawback is that the bus travels at a slower pace and has less frequent service. Therefore, if you have a clear destination or itinerary and want to maximize your sightseeing time, taking the train might be a better option. Transportation details are summarized below.

Fare

: One-way: Adults 220 JPY / Children 110 JPY 1-Day Pass: Adults 600 JPY / Children 300 JPY ※1. The “Yokohama Minato Mirai Pass” mentioned later can be used for boarding. ※2. Non-cash payments only (credit cards, e-payments, etc., are accepted).

Main Tourist Attractions: : PACIFICO Yokohama, Red Brick Warehouse, Osanbashi Pier, Yamashita Park, and more.

The BAYSIDE BLUE bus allows you to admire the city streets and scenery from its windows along the route.

Check out the official BAYSIDE BLUE bus website

The “Akai Kutsu” (Red Shoes) Loop Bus

The “Akai Kutsu” (Red Shoes) is a delightful loop bus that takes you to the famous attractions across the five areas mentioned above. Its charming, retro-red exterior is truly eye-catching, and you’ll notice the meticulous detail in its interior design as well!

Departing from Bus Stop No. 3 in front of Sakuragicho Station, the bus loops through popular spots like the “Red Brick Warehouse,” “Chinatown,” and “Yamashita Park.” A full loop takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with buses running every 20 minutes. If you’re visiting Yokohama for the first time, we highly recommend grabbing a 1-day pass. It’s an excellent way to effortlessly visit all the major sights in one go!

However, do note that the bus doesn’t stop near Yokohama Station. If you’re heading to a single destination, the train might be more convenient in terms of both time and cost. It’s always a good idea to consider your travel plans and specific destinations before deciding which transportation option is best for you!

Fares: : One-way: Adults 220 JPY / Children 110 JPY 1-Day Pass: Adults 600 JPY / Children 300 JPY ※The “Yokohama Minato Mirai Pass” mentioned later can be used for boarding.

Main Tourist Attractions: : Bashamichi, Yokohama HAMMERHEAD, Motomachi, Harbor View Park (Minato-no-Mieru-Oka Koen), and more.

The “Akai Kutsu” (Red Shoes) loop bus boasts a charmingly retro exterior.

Check out the official “Akai Kutsu” (Red Shoes) bus website

3 Super Value Passes for Your Yokohama Adventure!

To wrap things up, we’re excited to introduce three fantastic value passes that we highly recommend for your Yokohama sightseeing! Each pass covers different attractions and areas, ensuring you’ll find one that perfectly fits almost any itinerary. Opting for these passes is usually more cost-effective, and you’ll often unlock additional discounts and perks!

Minato Burari Ticket

This incredible pass offers unlimited rides for one day on Yokohama City Buses, the Subway, select Kanachu Buses, and the entire routes of the “BAYSIDE BLUE” and “Akai Kutsu” (Red Shoes) buses mentioned earlier. The best part? You’ll also receive discounts at approximately 120 shops and facilities within the designated area! If you plan to visit multiple major Yokohama attractions in a single day, this ticket is a game-changer, offering savings on both transportation and shopping. Here’s a quick overview:

Fares: : Adults 700 JPY / Children 350 JPY

Where to Purchase: : - Subway stations within the ticket’s valid area - Yokohama Station East Exit - Designated travel agencies and hotels for the Minato Burari Ticket - my route (app), etc.

Applicable Areas: : - Yokohama City Subway: Yokohama Station ~ Yoshinocho Station (7 stations) - Yokohama City Bus, Kanachu Bus: Yokohama ~ Motomachi/Harbor View Park, Sankeien Garden, Kannai/Isezakicho ~ Yokohamabashi/Nakamurabashi, Takigashira - Full routes of BAYSIDE BLUE and “Akai Kutsu” (Red Shoes) Loop Buses

Check out the official Minato Burari Ticket website

Yokohama One-Day Pass

The Yokohama One-Day Pass offers unlimited rides for one day on the Keikyu Line and Yokohama City Subway between “Yokohama Station” and “Kamiooka Station,” as well as the entire Minato Mirai Line, Yokohama City Buses, and specific Kanachu Bus routes. It truly covers almost all major attractions within Yokohama City!

Fares vary depending on your starting point and station. If you purchase the ticket at Yokohama Station, it’s 1,070 JPY for adults (530 JPY for children). There are also passes available for departures from “Shinagawa Station” or neighboring cities like “Yokosuka” and ”Kanazawa Bunko,” offering flexibility for various travel plans. What’s even better is that you can enjoy discounts at partner restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions!

To make the most of your Yokohama itinerary, we highly recommend leveraging the Yokohama One-Day Pass, which covers almost all major attractions within Yokohama City.

Check out the official Yokohama One-Day Pass website

Yokohama Minato Mirai Pass

The “Yokohama Minato Mirai Pass” grants you unlimited rides on the JR Negishi Line between Yokohama Station and “Shin-Sugita Station,” as well as the Yokohama Minatomirai Railway, also known as the “Minato Mirai Line.” You can even use it on rapid trains, not just local ones!

This pass is your ultimate companion for exploring the “Minato Mirai area,” including famous Yokohama attractions like “Yokohama Chinatown” and “Yamashita Park.” You can purchase it at designated ticket machines and some automatic ticket vending machines. Plus, there’s an e-ticket option, allowing you to buy it conveniently on your phone. At just 530 JPY for adults (260 JPY for children), it’s incredibly budget-friendly and offers fantastic value!

The Yokohama Minato Mirai Pass is highly recommended for exploring the “Minato Mirai area.”

Check out the official Yokohama Minato Mirai Pass website

Common Questions About Yokohama Transportation

Q

Can I use a Suica card in Yokohama?

A

Yes, absolutely! In addition to Suica, you can use PASMO (primarily distributed in the Tokyo metropolitan area) and 10 other major IC cards throughout Yokohama.

Q

Which airport is closest to Yokohama?

A

Haneda Airport (HND) is the closest. You can reach Yokohama Station in approximately 35 minutes by taking the Keikyu Main Line Limited Express or the Airport Limousine Bus (YCAT).

Conclusion

We hope this guide has been helpful in navigating transportation from major cities in Tokyo and from Haneda and Narita Airports to Yokohama Station, as well as getting around Yokohama itself. With this information in hand, you’re all set to enjoy your journey and explore every corner of Yokohama!

Yokohama, a vibrant metropolis, boasts countless captivating attractions, a plethora of shopping centers, and an incredible array of dining experiences. For a comprehensive guide to all the must-see sights and must-try foods, be sure to check out our hand-picked selection in the article below. Happy travels!

【Ultimate Selection】Your Go-To Guide for Yokohama’s Best Sights, Shops, and Food!