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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Yokohama Anpanman Children's Museum is an interactive museum for children themed around the popular character Anpanman, originally created by Takashi Yanase. It features a play area where small children can play the main role, character shows, photo spots, hands-on workshops, an official shop, a cafe, and a bakery. As it is primarily an indoor facility, it is less affected by the weather, and its main features include facilities that make it safe for those with infants and young children to enjoy (nursing rooms, cribs, multi-purpose toilets, etc.).
Historically, due to Anpanman's popularity, several Anpanman museums have been opened across the country. The Yokohama facility is located in the Minato Mirai district and contributes to attracting visitors to the area as a family-friendly tourist spot. Exhibits and shows are regularly updated and seasonal events are held, so there are always efforts to keep children entertained.
Highlights
- Anpanman Theater/Show: A live stage performance by characters. There are many performances where children can join in along with the music, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photos (there may be a limited number of shows and a rotation system).
- Interaction Square/Play Zone: An indoor playground with play equipment and gimmicks based on Anpanman and his friends. It is often divided into areas according to age.
- Character Greetings: There are often designated times when you can meet Anpanman and his friends directly, and you can take commemorative photos with them (numbered tickets may be required when it is crowded).
- Anpanman Shop/Goods Corner: The official shop stocks limited edition products, popular toys, and clothing accessories. Perfect for choosing souvenirs.
- Cafe & Bakery: They offer menus themed around Anpanman characters, as well as tableware and menus for children. The bakery, which offers a wide selection of freshly baked bread, is also popular.
- Workshop and experience corner: There are sometimes programs such as bread-making experiences and crafts that can be participated in by advance reservation or on the day with a numbered ticket system.
- Photo Spots: There are plenty of life-size sets and photo booths, so you can take adorable commemorative photos of your parents and children.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Shin-Takashima Station or Minatomirai Station on the Minatomirai Line. Each station is about a few minutes to 10 minutes away on foot (depending on the station exit and route).
- By JR: It's about a 15-20 minute walk from JR Yokohama Station, or a few minutes by bus or taxi from the East Exit of Yokohama Station. If you have a stroller or lots of luggage, taking a taxi is convenient.
- Access by car: There are paid parking lots in the area (such as commercial parking lots). However, they tend to fill up on weekends and holidays, so we recommend using public transportation.
- From the airport: From Haneda Airport, you can take the Keikyu Line to Yokohama or the limousine bus to the Minato Mirai area.
- We recommend checking the official website for the latest access and entrance information (elevators and barrier-free routes).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 1-1.5 hours (a quick tour of the facilities, not including use of the shop or cafe).
- Typical stay: 2-3 hours (including show viewing, photography, shopping and snacks).
- If you want to spend it at a leisurely pace: Half a day (if you combine it with workshops, meals, and sightseeing in the area).
- Please consider that small children will need time to rest, feed, and change diapers.
Nearby spots
- Yokohama Cosmo World (Amusement Park/Large Ferris Wheel) - An amusement facility that you can enjoy with your children.
- Red Brick Warehouse (Shopping & Events) — Historic buildings and stylish shops and restaurants.
- Cup Noodles Museum (Minato Mirai) — A popular hands-on museum that's fun for the whole family.
- Landmark Tower Queen's Square — A large facility with shopping, an observation deck, and restaurants.
- Rinko Park and Seaside Promenade - On a nice day, we recommend taking a walk along the waterfront or having a picnic.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: Weekends, national holidays, and consecutive holidays (Golden Week, summer vacation, New Year's holidays) are extremely crowded. Shows and greetings may fill up early and numbered tickets may be distributed, so be sure to check and purchase the official admission method (date and time designated tickets or numbered tickets) in advance. Weekdays are relatively quiet.
- Tickets and Prices: Some facilities have separate paid areas (museum areas) and free mall areas. Please check the official website in advance for pricing and availability on the day.
- What to bring and what to wear: Most of the park is indoors, but if it's crowded, you may need to fold up your stroller, so it's convenient to have a baby carrier. There are playground equipment that requires you to take off your shoes and wear socks, so it's a good idea to bring socks for your child.
- Safety and Manners: Please share the play space with other visitors and be considerate of others when taking photos (for example, refrain from using flash photography during shows).
- Strollers and luggage: When it is crowded indoors, stroller parking areas may be designated, so it is best to carry valuables with you or keep them in a small bag.
- Seasonal precautionsIn summer, take measures against heatstroke (drink plenty of fluids, wear a hat) when moving around facilities or outdoors. In winter, crowds tend to peak around the New Year period. If you expect to have to wait outdoors, be prepared for the weather.
- Infectious disease prevention measures: Rules within the museum, such as wearing masks, hand sanitizer, and entry restrictions, may change depending on the season. Please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
Finally, the facility's opening hours, closing days, event schedule, and ticket sales methods are subject to change. Please be sure to check the latest information on the Yokohama Anpanman Children's Museum's official website and social media before visiting.
