About Yamashita Park

Yamashita Park is a large public park located in the city of Yokohama, Japan. It is situated along the waterfront of Yokohama Bay, and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The park covers an area of about 24 acres and offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding cityscape.

The park features a variety of attractions and amenities, including gardens, fountains, playgrounds, and sports fields. It is also home to several notable monuments and landmarks, such as the Hikawa Maru, a historic ocean liner that has been converted into a museum, and the “Guardian of Water” statue, a large bronze sculpture that stands at the park’s entrance.

Yamashita Park is a popular spot for picnics, strolling, and relaxing, and offers plenty of space for visitors to enjoy the waterfront views. It is also a popular venue for events and festivals throughout the year, including the Yokohama Port Festival and the annual Yokohama Marathon.

Overall, Yamashita Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Yokohama, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

History time of line Yamashita Park

Here’s a brief history timeline of Yamashita Park in Yokohama:

  • 1854: Yokohama becomes one of the first Japanese ports opened to foreign trade following the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa with the United States.
  • 1867: Construction begins on a seawall to protect the city from tsunamis and storm surges.
  • 1870: The area where Yamashita Park is now located becomes the site of the first foreign settlement in Yokohama, known as the “Kannai” district.
  • 1875: The Kannai district is expanded, and a promenade is built along the seawall.
  • 1897: The promenade is officially named “Yamashita Park” in honor of a local banker, Count Yamashita Takatoyo, who contributed funds to its development.
  • 1923: The Great Kanto earthquake strikes Yokohama, causing extensive damage to the city and the park.
  • 1930: The park is rebuilt and expanded to its current size of 24 acres, with the addition of gardens, fountains, and other features.
  • 1945: The park suffers damage again during World War II, when it is used as a military base by the occupying U.S. forces.
  • 1950s-1960s: The park is restored and renovated, with the addition of a rose garden, a children’s playground, and other features.
  • 1989: The park is designated as one of Japan’s Top 100 Historical Parks and Gardens by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.
  • 2009: The park is further renovated and modernized, with the addition of new landscaping, lighting, and public art installations.

How to reach Yamashita Park

Yamashita Park is located in the Naka Ward of Yokohama, Japan. Here are some of the ways to reach the park:

  • By train: The closest train station to Yamashita Park is Motomachi-Chukagai Station, which is served by the Minato Mirai Line. From there, it’s a short walk to the park.
  • By bus: Several bus routes stop near Yamashita Park, including the Yokohama City Air Terminal (YCAT) Shuttle Bus and the Yokohama Municipal Bus. Check with the local transit authority for specific routes and schedules.
  • By car: There is limited parking available near the park, but it can be challenging to find a space, particularly on weekends or during peak tourist season.
  • By foot: Depending on your location in Yokohama, it may be possible to walk to Yamashita Park. The park is located near several other popular attractions, such as Yokohama Chinatown and the Red Brick Warehouse, making it a convenient stop on a walking tour of the city.

Overall, public transportation is the easiest and most convenient way to reach Yamashita Park, with the park being located within walking distance of the Motomachi-Chukagai Station.

Do's and Dont's at Yamashita Park

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Yamashita Park in Yokohama, Japan:

Do’s:

  • Do take your time to stroll around the park and enjoy the scenic views of the Yokohama Bay and the surrounding areas.
  • Do take pictures of the different attractions within the park, such as the Hikawa Maru museum ship, the Guardian of Water statue, and the rose garden.
  • Do try out the various food options available around the park, including the street vendors and the nearby restaurants.
  • Do respect the park’s opening and closing hours.
  • Do dispose of your trash in the designated bins.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t smoke or drink alcohol within the park premises as it is prohibited.
  • Don’t disturb the park’s natural beauty by littering, plucking flowers or plants, or damaging any part of the park.
  • Don’t feed the birds or any other wildlife in the park as it is prohibited.
  • Don’t climb on the various monuments and sculptures within the park.
  • Don’t enter any restricted areas within the park.

Following these simple guidelines will help to ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Yamashita Park.

Highlights of Yamashita Park

Yamashita Park in Yokohama, Japan, is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, offering a variety of attractions and activities. Here are some of the highlights of the park:

  1. Hikawa Maru: The Hikawa Maru is a historic ocean liner that has been converted into a museum, showcasing the history of the ship and its voyages around the world.
  2. Guardian of Water: A large bronze statue that stands at the entrance of the park, depicting a mythical sea creature and symbolizing the importance of water in the city of Yokohama.
  3. Rose Garden: A beautiful garden within the park, featuring over 1,500 roses in various colors and sizes.
  4. Yokohama Marine Tower: A 100-meter tall tower located within the park, offering stunning views of the bay and the city skyline.
  5. Children’s Playground: A fun and interactive playground area for children, featuring swings, slides, and other play equipment.
  6. Sports Fields: The park offers several sports fields and courts, including tennis, basketball, and soccer.
  7. Fountain Plaza: A large plaza featuring a variety of fountains and water features, including the popular “Dancing Water Fountain” that puts on a light and water show in the evenings.
  8. Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Yamashita Park hosts a variety of events and festivals, such as the Yokohama Port Festival and the annual Yokohama Marathon.

Overall, Yamashita Park is a great place to visit for a relaxing day out in Yokohama, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Frequently asked questions about Yamashita Park ?

What are the opening hours of Yamashita Park?
The park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Yamashita Park?
No, there is no entrance fee to enter and enjoy the park.
Is there parking available at Yamashita Park?
Yes, there is a paid parking lot available near the park.
Are pets allowed in Yamashita Park?
Yes, pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
Are there food and drink options available within the park?
Yes, there are several food and drink options available within and around the park, including street vendors and restaurants.
Can I ride a bicycle in Yamashita Park?
Bicycles are not allowed in the park, but there are bicycle parking areas available nearby.
What are the popular events and festivals that take place in Yamashita Park?
The Yokohama Port Festival, Yokohama Triennale, and the Yokohama Marathon are some of the popular events and festivals that take place in the park.