Yokohama Port Museum
Explore Yokohama's maritime legacy at this museum, featuring the historic Nippon Maru sailing ship and engaging exhibits on port history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Yokohama Port Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Yokohama's maritime legacy at this museum, featuring the historic Nippon Maru sailing ship and engaging exhibits on port history.
"An excellent museum that explains the different time periods of the port of Yokohama."
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 2-3 hours to explore both the museum and the Nippon Maru ship.
🗣️ English support available
English descriptions, subtitles, and VR experiences are provided.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nippon Maru Sailing Ship
Moored beside the museum
Step aboard this majestic four-masted barque, a former training ship turned museum. Explore its decks and learn about maritime history.
Port History Exhibits
Main museum building
Discover Yokohama's rich port history through engaging displays, videos, and interactive simulators. Learn about its development and significance.
VR Experience
Main museum building
Immerse yourself in a virtual reality experience that brings Yokohama's port history to life. Available in English.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Yokohama Port Museum
Navigating Yokohama's Waterfront
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 2-3 hours to explore both the museum and the Nippon Maru ship.
🗣️ English support available
English descriptions, subtitles, and VR experiences are provided.
👟 Comfortable footwear
You'll be walking a lot, especially on the ship. Wear comfy shoes!
🚢 Check ship status
The Nippon Maru may be under repair; check ahead if it's a must-see.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 2-3 hours to explore both the museum and the Nippon Maru ship.
🗣️ English support available
English descriptions, subtitles, and VR experiences are provided.
👟 Comfortable footwear
You'll be walking a lot, especially on the ship. Wear comfy shoes!
🚢 Check ship status
The Nippon Maru may be under repair; check ahead if it's a must-see.
📱 QR code guide
A QR code provides an English guide for deeper insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Yokohama Port Museum for its engaging exhibits on the city's maritime history and the impressive Nippon Maru sailing ship. The availability of English information and interactive elements like VR make it accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience. Some visitors noted that the ship might be under repair, and while niche, it's highly recommended for history enthusiasts.
"An excellent museum that explains the different time periods of the port of Yokohama. English is available throughout and there are even fun simulator games to play."
Brandon Skinner
"The museum was very interesting I learned alot about the Yokohama harbor that I had no idea happened. This museum is full of interesting exhibits a couple short movies and a couple simulators. This is a must see if you are visiting Yokohama the sailing ship was under repair and wasn’t open when I visited in February 2024 so hopefully it will be soon"
M H
"Great museum. Large and well made exhibitions. A little niche, but if you are interrested in history, this is a nice treat. When we visited it was too hot to enjoy walking around the sailing ship, but i'm sure it's also nice if you're not rushing through to get to the airconditioning of the main museum."
Christian Poulsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the Minato Mirai 21 area. You can reach it via the Minatomirai Line to Minatomirai Station or the JR lines to Sakuragicho Station, followed by a short walk. +1
Yes, Yokohama is a very popular and easy day trip from Tokyo, typically taking about 24-30 minutes by train. +2
The Minatomirai Line is excellent for accessing waterfront attractions. Walking is also a great way to explore the Minato Mirai 21 area.
Yes, Yokohama is a major port city, and the museum is a key attraction for cruise ship visitors.
Absolutely! The Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, and Chinatown are all within easy reach and make for a great combined itinerary. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website before your visit. Generally, it's open during daytime hours.
Admission fees are generally reasonable. Check the museum's official website for the most current pricing information.
Advance booking is usually not required for the museum itself, but it's always a good idea to check, especially during peak seasons.
Often, access to the Nippon Maru is included with your museum admission, but it's advisable to confirm this upon arrival or on their website.
While not always advertised, sometimes package deals or discounts might be available through travel agencies or specific promotions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features exhibits on Yokohama's port history, interactive simulators, short films, and access to the Nippon Maru sailing ship. +1
Yes, there are activities for kids and the exhibits are generally engaging. The VR experience can also be a hit.
Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum and the Nippon Maru.
Yes, English descriptions are available for many displays, and there are videos with English subtitles and a VR experience in English. A QR code also provides an English guide.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions on exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
The Nippon Maru sailing ship itself offers fantastic photo opportunities. The surrounding Minato Mirai 21 area also provides stunning skyline views. 
Yes, you can take photos of the Nippon Maru from the exterior and while exploring its decks.
The museum's location in Minato Mirai 21 offers excellent views of the Yokohama skyline, especially from the waterfront areas.
Maritime photography, architectural shots of the port buildings, and cityscapes are popular.
Drone usage is typically restricted in port areas and around museums for safety and privacy reasons. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical exhibits are informative, the hands-on elements ensure that younger visitors remain entertained. The museum also provides a good opportunity to discuss Japan's connection to the sea and its role in global trade. Consider combining the visit with a stroll through nearby Yamashita Park for some outdoor fun.
🚢 History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
Exploring the Nippon Maru firsthand allows you to appreciate the engineering and lifestyle of a bygone era of seafaring. The period displays and the ship's architecture provide a tangible connection to the past. Don't miss the VR experience, which offers an immersive glimpse into historical port activities.
📸 Photographers
+1The Minato Mirai 21 area provides a wealth of architectural shots, from the sleek lines of contemporary buildings to the historic charm of the Red Brick Warehouse. The waterfront itself offers beautiful vistas, particularly during sunrise or sunset. Look for unique angles that combine maritime elements with the urban landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Nippon Maru: A Floating Museum
+1Inside the ship, you'll find period displays showcasing the living quarters, navigation rooms, and the overall atmosphere of a bygone era. The sheer scale of the ship is impressive, and walking its decks offers a unique perspective on maritime history. While it may have undergone repairs at times, its presence is a significant draw for anyone interested in naval heritage.
Exploring the Nippon Maru provides a tangible connection to Japan's seafaring past. It’s a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship of these historic vessels and imagine the voyages they undertook. Combined with the museum's exhibits, it offers a comprehensive look at Yokohama's identity as a vital port city.
Uncovering Yokohama's Port History
Interactive elements, including simulators and short films, make the learning experience engaging for all ages. These features help to illustrate the complexities of port operations, shipbuilding, and the daily lives of those who worked there. The museum effectively communicates how Yokohama's port shaped the city and its role in Japan's modernization.
Beyond the historical narrative, the museum also highlights the engineering and architectural aspects of the port. You'll gain an appreciation for the infrastructure required to support such a bustling maritime hub. The inclusion of a VR experience further enhances understanding by offering an immersive journey through different historical periods.
Exploring Minato Mirai 21
Key landmarks in Minato Mirai 21 include the iconic Landmark Tower (offering panoramic city views), the Red Brick Warehouse (historic buildings now housing shops and cafes), and Cosmo World (an amusement park with a giant Ferris wheel). The waterfront promenade itself is a pleasure to stroll, offering picturesque views of the bay and the city skyline.
This district is easily navigable, with excellent public transport links and pedestrian-friendly pathways. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a dynamic urban experience that showcases Yokohama's contemporary appeal alongside its rich maritime heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit