This important port city was one of the first places where European and U.S. traders were allowed to settle in Japan. After the massive Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and bombing during World War II, little remains of its early days as a treaty port, but today the city bustles with ships from all over the world loading and unloading cargo; it's possible to take a harbor tour by boat for a firsthand inspection.
There's not a lot for tourists to see and do in Yokohama, but among the city sights are the Silk Museum (in the Silk Center) and the Yamate Museum, with exhibits relating to the city's foreign community. Stroll the streets of Chinatown and then see the view from the Marine Tower. Shoppers may want to visit the upscale Motomachi district—prices there are lower than Tokyo's. In general, Yokohama is less hectic than Tokyo, and there are several peaceful places of refuge, among them Yamashita Park, Sankeien Gardens and the International Cemetery, which offers nice views of the sunset. Plan one full day in Yokohama.
20 mi/32 km southwest of Tokyo on Tokyo Bay.