Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yokohama Bay Bridge is an iconic bridge spanning the waters of Yokohama Port, and its graceful cable-stayed silhouette has become a landmark. It was constructed as part of the Shuto Expressway Bayshore Route (opened in 1989) with the aim of streamlining port logistics and improving the cityscape. During the day, you can enjoy a modern view of the bridge combined with the high-rise buildings of Minato Mirai, and from dusk to night, the bridge's illuminations and the Yokohama nightscape create a dramatic view. As it is a roadway bridge, you cannot walk from the bridge, but you can view it from multiple angles from nearby observation points, making it a popular photo spot.
Highlights
- Night view and illumination: The bridge is illuminated differently depending on the time of day, season, and events, and when combined with the night view of Yokohama Port, it makes for a great photo opportunity. The combination of the gradation of colors and illuminations from dusk to night is particularly beautiful.
- Comparison with Minato Mirai: When you include the Ferris wheel at the Landmark Tower and Cosmo Clock, it creates a composition that is typical of Yokohama.
– View from Daikoku Wharf (Daikoku Parking Area): A popular observation point on the Bayshore Route. It is also a popular spot for car enthusiasts, and in the evening you can enjoy both the traffic and the night view at the same time.
- Dynamism of the port: Experience the realism of a port, with large ships, container yards, and the movement of canals.
- Seasonal Appearance: On a clear winter day, the air is clear and the distant views are sharp, while in summer the sunsets take on a deep hue due to humidity, showing different appearances depending on the season.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
– Access by train or on foot (to the viewing spot)
- Sakuragicho Station (JR/Yokohama Municipal Subway): Convenient for views of the Minatomirai area and the Cosmo Clock side. From Sakuragicho Station, you can reach the seaside in about 5-15 minutes on foot in the direction of Minatomirai.
- Bashamichi Station, Nihon-odori Station, and Kannai Station: Convenient for viewing from Osanbashi Pier (Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal) and Yamashita Park. Approximately 10-20 minutes on foot from each station.
- Shin-Takashima Station and Minatomirai Station: Convenient for accessing the Landmark and the Red Brick Warehouse, and from there you can take a stroll and enjoy a distant view of Yokohama Bay Bridge.
– Cars and motorcycles
– If you take the Shuto Expressway Bayshore Route and head towards Daikoku Wharf, you can get a great view from the Daikoku Parking Area (use the parking lot/PA). Visiting by car will get you closest to the bridge, but be aware of traffic congestion and parking restrictions.
- Bus
– Some routes can take you to the surrounding area, but the number of trains and routes vary depending on the location, so it's best to check the timetable and route in advance.
– Points to note
– The Yokohama Bay Bridge itself is a roadway bridge and pedestrians are not allowed to walk on it. If you want to view the view from the bridge, you cannot. Please use the observation spots such as nearby parks, piers, and parking areas.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
– Photography and viewing only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
– If combining with nearby tourist spots (Red Brick Warehouse, Minato Mirai walk, etc.): 2 to 4 hours
- If you want to enjoy the sunset and night view at your leisure: 1.5 to 3 hours (including waiting time for sunset and travel time)
Nearby spots
– Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal (Osanbashi): A photo spot where you can get a close-up view of the ships and harbor, with the Bay Bridge in the distance.
– Red Brick Warehouse: There are many shops, cafes and events, and it is also popular as a night view spot.
– Minato Mirai (Landmark Tower, Queen's Square, Cosmo Clock): A complex tourist area that can be visited along with the Bay Bridge.
– Yamashita Park: A classic spot where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the view of the sea and bridge.
– Cup Noodles Museum, Yokohama Chinatown: Convenient nearby spots for families and food lovers.
– Daikoku Pier (Daikoku PA): A viewing point accessible by car. Often attracts car enthusiasts.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
– No walking on the bridge: The Yokohama Bay Bridge itself is a roadway off-limits to pedestrians. Unauthorized entry and illegal parking are strictly prohibited.
– Crowds: The surrounding parks and tourist spots will be crowded on weekends, in the evenings, and during events (fireworks displays, port festivals, etc.). The Red Brick Warehouse and the area around Osanbashi Pier will be particularly crowded.
- Photography etiquette: Please be considerate when photographing passersby and cars. Daikoku Wharf is a popular spot for car enthusiasts, so taking large photos of a vehicle without permission could cause trouble.
- Wind and weather: The wind is strong along the coast, and very cold winds blow in winter. It can get chilly at night, so be sure to dress warmly. Fog and rain make photography difficult as visibility is poor.
- Parking and traffic restrictions: Traffic restrictions may be in place around Daikoku Wharf and the Minato Mirai area during events. Please be aware of parking lots that are full and that require a fee.
- Use of drones, etc.: Drone flying is often restricted in port areas to ensure the safety of ships and port-related matters. Be sure to check the regulations of the national government, local government, and port administrator.
- Nighttime security and safety: Yokohama is generally a safe city, but at night, there are dark areas along the seaside and areas without fences, so please be careful not to fall and watch your step.
Supplementary information (recommended time period)
– The best time to visit is from sunset to night, when you can enjoy both the gradation of the sky and the illumination.
– On clear winter days, the air is clear and distant views are sharp, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts.
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