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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Minato no Mieru Oka Park is an observation park located in the Yamate district of Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Located in a historic area where foreign settlements and Western-style buildings stood from the Meiji to Taisho periods, its greatest attraction is the panoramic view of Yokohama Port, the Minato Mirai area, the Bay Bridge, and more from the top of the hill. The park is equipped with a rose garden, walking paths, and benches, and is a popular walking spot for tourists and locals alike, as it allows visitors to enjoy seasonal flowers and the distinctive Yokohama harbor scenery.
Highlights
- Great view: You can see Yokohama Port, Minato Mirai, the Bay Bridge, and the sea in the distance, making it a popular spot for night views.
- Rose Garden: This rose garden is best viewed in spring (May to June) and autumn (October to November). The combination of colorful roses and the harbor scenery makes for a photogenic spot.
- Walking paths and benches: There are leisurely walking paths where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery. Many people come here to take pictures and sketch.
- Set tour with the neighboring Western-style buildings: The area around the park is dotted with Western-style buildings on the hillside, such as the Diplomat's House and Berrick Hall, and by touring them together you can fully enjoy the exotic atmosphere of the time.
- Photo spot: This spot is often used for wedding photos and portraits, and is popular because of the Yokohama harbor scenery in the background.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station:
- Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot from Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minatomirai Line (there is a slope)
- Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from Ishikawacho Station (Motomachi Exit) on the JR Negishi Line
- Bus: Yokohama Municipal Buses and tourist route buses run in the area. Access is convenient from Motomachi-Chukagai Station and Ishikawacho Station.
- By car: There is no large dedicated parking lot within the park, so you will need to use the nearby paid parking lots. As the parking lots tend to fill up during the tourist season, we recommend using public transportation.
- Walking advice: The garden is located on a hill, so there are many slopes and stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short trip (view only): 30-45 minutes
- Leisurely stroll and photography: 1-2 hours
- If you plan to visit the surrounding Western-style buildings and the Motomachi area: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Yamate Western-style Buildings (Diplomat's House, Berrick Hall, Ehrismann House, etc.) - Enjoy a tour of Western-style buildings filled with exotic atmosphere.
- Motomachi Shopping Street — Great for shopping and cafe hopping.
- Yamashita Park — Take a stroll along the waterfront and see the Hikawa Maru (walking distance or a short bus ride).
- Yokohama Chinatown — A tourist attraction where you can enjoy food and dim sum.
- Red Brick Warehouse/Minato Mirai District — A large commercial area overlooking the harbor (accessible by car, on foot, or via train).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It tends to get crowded during the rose viewing season (spring and autumn), Golden Week, and the evenings and nights on weekends. If you want to take your time taking photos, we recommend going early in the morning on a weekday or just before dusk.
- Slopes and stairs: There are many slopes and stairs in and around the park, so if you are using a stroller or wheelchair, you will need to check the route and have someone accompany you.
- Manners: Please be considerate to other users and refrain from damaging flowers and plants, drinking alcohol on benches or in flower beds, or leaving trash. Pets must be kept on a leash, and any waste must be cleaned up.
- Nighttime: The night view is beautiful, but there are also dimly lit areas, so please be mindful of your step and take precautions against theft, such as keeping your valuables safe.
- Photography rules: There may be restrictions on commercial photography and the use of tripods. Please check with the relevant authorities in advance, especially if you are renting the entire facility or planning a large-scale shoot.
- Weather and clothing: As it is close to the sea, there are windy days, so it is best to bring a jacket in spring and autumn, and windproof clothing in winter to stay comfortable.
(Additional Information) You can efficiently enjoy the diverse charms of Yokohama by visiting Minato Mirai Park in combination with the neighboring Western-style buildings, Motomachi/Chinatown, and Minato Mirai. It's a good idea to check the latest information from Yokohama City and tourist guides before your visit.
