Yamate (The Bluff)
Yamate, The Bluff, offers historic Western residences, serene gardens, and stunning panoramic views of Yokohama port.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Yamate (The Bluff)
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yamate, The Bluff, offers historic Western residences, serene gardens, and stunning panoramic views of Yokohama port.
"A beautiful house on the hill top with a panoramic view of the Yokohama port area."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Yamate is hilly! Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the historic residences and gardens.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover Yamate's charm is by walking. Allow ample time to wander and enjoy the views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Western Residences
Various locations along The Bluff
Explore beautifully preserved Western-style houses, each with unique architecture and stories from Yokohama's international past.
Panoramic Yokohama Port Views
Hilltop vantage points
Soak in breathtaking views of Yokohama's bustling port, Red Brick Warehouse, and Yokohama Bay Bridge.
Beautifully Maintained Gardens
Around the historic residences
Wander through meticulously kept gardens, often featuring seasonal flowers and offering a tranquil atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bluff's Charm
Navigating Yamate's Hills
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Yamate is hilly! Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the historic residences and gardens.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover Yamate's charm is by walking. Allow ample time to wander and enjoy the views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic views of Yokohama port, especially beautiful at sunset.
🌸 Enjoy the Gardens
The gardens are a highlight, especially when in bloom. Take time to relax and appreciate the seasonal flowers.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Yamate is hilly! Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the historic residences and gardens.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover Yamate's charm is by walking. Allow ample time to wander and enjoy the views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramic views of Yokohama port, especially beautiful at sunset.
🌸 Enjoy the Gardens
The gardens are a highlight, especially when in bloom. Take time to relax and appreciate the seasonal flowers.
☕️ Visit a Historic Cafe
Many old residences have been converted into charming cafes, offering a unique atmosphere to relax.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Yamate for its beautiful, well-maintained gardens and the charm of its historic Western-style residences. The panoramic views of Yokohama port are a major draw, offering a peaceful and picturesque escape. Some reviews mention a decline in the upkeep or decorations of certain houses, but the overall sentiment remains positive for its historical significance and scenic beauty.
"Very interesting and beautiful place with awesome garden, many beautiful flowers, the butterflies and bees enjoying the buffet lunch, I really like this place！"
David Kennedy
"Another one of my favorite quiet place to go to! I love how they maintain the garden to plant seasonal flowers!"
Sarah Biblanias
"Beautiful historical building, explain history of Yokohama"
Saran Maeda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Yamate by taking the JR Negishi Line to Yamate Station or the Minatomirai Line to Motomachi-Chukagai Station. From either station, it's a pleasant walk uphill to The Bluff area. +1
Yes, Yamate is well-served by public transport. The closest stations are Yamate Station (JR) and Motomachi-Chukagai Station (Minatomirai Line). Buses also operate in the vicinity.
Driving is possible, but parking can be limited and expensive in the area. It's generally recommended to use public transport and explore on foot.
Walking is the most rewarding way to explore Yamate. The area is best discovered on foot, allowing you to appreciate the historic architecture and scenic views at your own pace.
Yamate is relatively close to other popular Yokohama attractions like Chinatown and the Red Brick Warehouse, making it a great addition to a day trip. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Yamate area itself, including the streets and gardens, is free to explore. However, some of the historic residences may have an admission fee for entry into the buildings.
Opening hours vary for each historic residence. It's best to check the specific hours for each house you plan to visit, as some may have limited operating times or be closed on certain days.
While official guided tours might be limited, many visitors enjoy self-guided walking tours. Information boards are often available at the residences.
The gardens surrounding the historic residences are generally free to access and enjoy.
While the residences themselves may close, the general area and viewpoints can be enjoyed at night, offering a different perspective of the city lights. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Yokohama port from the hilltop residences are prime photography spots. The historic architecture and manicured gardens also offer beautiful photo opportunities. 
Photography rules can vary inside the historic houses. It's advisable to check for signage or ask staff before taking photos, especially if flash is involved.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for both the architecture and the port views. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear vistas.
Many visitors highlight the views from Bluff No. 18 and Bluff No. 111 as particularly picturesque. The gardens are also frequently photographed.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near ports. It's essential to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone in Yamate.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, several historic residences have been converted into charming cafes and restaurants, offering a unique dining experience with beautiful surroundings.
You can find a mix of Japanese and Western-style cuisine in the cafes and restaurants. Some offer light meals, while others provide more substantial dining options.
For more budget-friendly options, consider exploring nearby areas like Chinatown or the area around Yokohama Station, which offer a wider variety of eateries. +1
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you might find spots in the public gardens to enjoy a packed lunch, weather permitting.
Cafe The Rose in Bluff No. 111 is a popular choice, known for its Spanish-style architecture and charming ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the charm of the historic houses and the expansive views can spark imagination. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options within Yamate might be more geared towards adults. Nearby attractions like the Red Brick Warehouse or the Gundam Factory Yokohama offer more interactive experiences for younger children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Enjoy a leisurely walk, stop for coffee or a meal at one of the charming cafes housed in former residences, and capture stunning photographs of the port. The combination of history, natural beauty, and tranquility makes Yamate a romantic and enriching destination for couples or a contemplative escape for solo adventurers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Experiment with different times of day to capture the best light – golden hour offers a soft, warm glow, while twilight provides a dramatic cityscape. The well-maintained gardens are also a photographer's dream, especially when in bloom. Don't forget to explore the various vantage points for unique perspectives of the port and the city skyline.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Yokohama's International Past
+1Visitors can wander through streets lined with elegant Western-style homes, each with its own unique design and history. Some of these buildings, like Bluff No. 18 and Bluff No. 111, have been meticulously restored and now serve as museums, cafes, or event spaces. The architecture often features elements like large windows, balconies, and intricate detailing, reflecting the styles popular in Europe and America during that era.
+1These historic homes are not just architectural marvels; they are windows into the lives of the foreigners who settled in Yokohama. Many of them showcase period furnishings and provide information about the families who lived there, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. The surrounding gardens, often featuring a mix of Japanese and Western landscaping, add to the serene and picturesque atmosphere of the area.
Experiencing the Scenic Beauty of Yamate
The area is also renowned for its beautiful gardens, which are carefully maintained to showcase seasonal flowers. These green spaces offer a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or quiet contemplation. The combination of historic architecture and lush greenery creates a uniquely charming and photogenic environment.
Many visitors describe Yamate as a peaceful and beautiful place, appreciating the well-kept gardens and the serene atmosphere. The blend of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a highly recommended destination for those seeking a more relaxed and visually appealing experience in Yokohama.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit