I’ve been living in Yokohama for a few years now, and one of the best things about this city is its beautiful parks and charming streets. Yokohama parks are a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm—ideal spots for relaxing, taking a walk, or just taking in the views.

Below, I count down my favorite Yokohama parks and scenic streets. If any of them pique your interest, be sure to clink on the buttons provided for more detailed information.

The Best Yokohama Parks and Scenic Streets

1. Yamashita Park (山下公園)

Yamashita Park is a gem right along the waterfront and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or just sitting on a bench and watching the ships go by. The park is huge, and there are always people out and about—families, couples, tourists, you name it. One of the highlights here is the Hikawa Maru, an old ocean liner that’s now a museum. It’s pretty cool to check out, especially if you’re into maritime history. The best part? Yamashita Park is free to enter and is open all year round. I recommend going in the late afternoon when the sun sets over the bay—absolutely stunning!

2. Harbor View Park/Minato-no-Mieru Oka Park (港の見える丘公園)

Minato-no-Mieru Oka Park, which translates to “Harbor View Park,” is up on a hill and the views of the harbor are incredible. It’s a bit of a climb to get there, but totally worth it. People come here to take photos, have picnics, or just chill out with friends. There’s no entry fee, and it’s open 24/7, but I’d say the best time to visit is in the morning when it’s not too crowded and you can really take in the peaceful atmosphere. Among Yokohama parks, this one stands out for its amazing vantage points.

3. Sankeien Garden (三渓園)

If you’re into traditional Japanese gardens, you’ll love Sankei-en Garden. This place is like stepping back in time with its historic buildings, serene ponds, and beautiful bridges. It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There’s a small entry fee (about 700 yen for adults), but it’s totally worth it. The garden is especially beautiful in spring with the cherry blossoms or in autumn when the leaves change color. It’s a photographer’s dream and one of the most picturesque Yokohama parks.

4. Yokohama Chinatown (横浜中華街)

You can’t miss Yokohama Chinatown. It’s one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, and it’s always buzzing with activity. There are tons of shops and restaurants, and the food is amazing—dim sum, dumplings, you name it. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon wandering around and trying different dishes. Most of the attractions here are free to explore, but you’ll definitely want to bring some cash for all the delicious food. While not one of the Yokohama parks per se, its vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit.

5. Zou no Hana/Elephant Nose Park (象の鼻パーク)

Elephant Nose Park gets its name from a pier that looks like an elephant’s trunk. It’s got some quirky art installations and plenty of open space to relax or have a picnic. It’s also a great place to watch the boats in the harbor. There’s no entry fee, and it’s a fun spot to visit any time of day, but I especially like it in the evening when the lights come on. This is one of those unique Yokohama parks that combines art and leisure.

6. Kishamichi Promenade (汽車道)

The Kishamichi Promenade is a lovely walkway that follows the old railway tracks from when the area was used for freight trains. It connects several attractions in the Minato Mirai area, like the Red Brick Warehouse and World Porters. It’s a really pleasant walk, and you get to see a bit of Yokohama’s history along the way. Plus, it’s free and open all the time. Among Yokohama parks, this promenade offers a unique historical perspective.

Make the Most of Yokohama’s Charming Parks and Streets

Yokohama’s parks and streets offer a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a serene garden, take in stunning city views, or explore vibrant cultural districts, Yokohama parks have something for everyone. Make sure to include these spots in your itinerary to fully experience the city’s unique charm.