Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse: A Blend of History and Modernity
Experience Yokohama's history and culture at the iconic Red Brick Warehouse, a vibrant waterfront destination for shopping, dining, and events.
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, known locally as Akarenga Soko, stands as a testament to Yokohama's rich history and its successful transition into a modern, cosmopolitan city. Constructed in the early 1900s, with Building No. 2 completed in 1911 and Building No. 1 in 1913, these warehouses initially served as customs houses, facilitating the flow of goods through Yokohama Port during Japan's rapid modernization in the Meiji and Taisho eras. Designed by architect Tsumaki Yorinaka, the buildings showcase a unique blend of Japanese and Western architectural styles, a reflection of the era's embrace of international influences. However, the warehouses' history has not been without its challenges. The Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 caused significant damage, requiring extensive repairs that lasted until 1930. Following World War II, the American occupation forces requisitioned the buildings for use as storage facilities until 1956. With the rise of containerization, the warehouses' role as customs houses diminished, leading to their closure in 1989. Facing demolition in the late 1980s as part of a waterfront redevelopment plan, a public outcry led to the preservation of the warehouses as a historical site. In 2002, after extensive renovations, the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse was reborn as a cultural and commercial complex, breathing new life into the historic structures. Today, the complex is divided into two main buildings: Building No. 1, which hosts event spaces for concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural activities, and Building No. 2, which houses a shopping mall, restaurants, and cafes. The open space between the buildings hosts seasonal events like Oktoberfest and Christmas markets. Visitors can explore a variety of shops offering local crafts, fashion, and souvenirs, as well as enjoy diverse culinary experiences ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavors. The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse also offers accessible facilities, including elevators, restrooms, and wheelchair rentals. With its stunning waterfront views and blend of history and modernity, the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse remains a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
Local tips
- Check the event schedule before visiting to see if there are any festivals, markets, or performances happening in the central plaza.
- Visit during the winter months to experience the Christmas Market and outdoor ice skating rink.
- Explore the shops in Building No. 2 for unique Yokohama souvenirs, Japanese crafts, and international fashion brands.
- Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the restaurants or cafes, offering diverse cuisines and waterfront scenery.
- Take advantage of the accessible facilities, including elevators, restrooms, and wheelchair rentals, for a comfortable visit.
A brief summary to Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
- 1 Chome-1 Shinko, Yokohama, 1 Chome Shinko, Naka Ward, Kanagawa, 231-0001, JP
- +8145-227-2002
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is accessible via several train lines. The closest stations are Bashamichi Station and Nihon-odori Station on the Minatomirai Line, about a 6-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can walk from Kannai Station or Sakuragicho Station on the JR Negishi Line or Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line, which takes approximately 15 minutes. From Yokohama Station, take the Minatomirai Line to either Bashamichi or Nihon-odori Station. The train ride is about 5 minutes and costs ¥120-¥170. Alternatively, the Yokohama City Bus is another option. Take the Bayside Blue bus from Yokohama Station East Exit. The Akai Kutsu (Red Shoes) bus also provides access to the Red Brick Warehouse from Yokohama Station East Exit. Bus fare is a flat rate of ¥220 for adults and ¥110 for children. A one-day bus pass is available for ¥600 for adults.
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Walking
From Bashamichi or Nihon-odori Stations (Minatomirai Line), exit and walk towards the waterfront. Follow the signs for the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. The walk is approximately 6 minutes. From Kannai or Sakuragicho Stations (JR Negishi Line or Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line), walk towards the waterfront and follow the signs for the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and offers scenic views of the harbor.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Yokohama. From Yokohama Station, a taxi ride to the Red Brick Warehouse takes approximately 4 minutes. The estimated fare is ¥1800-¥2300. Note that taxi fares in Yokohama start at ¥660, with additional charges per kilometer. Taxis can also be taken from other nearby stations such as Sakuragicho or Kannai Stations. Expect to pay around ¥730 for the first 2,000 meters, and then ¥90 for every 293 meters after that.
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Sea Bass
For a unique approach, consider the Sea Bass water bus. The Sea Bass departs from Yokohama Station East Exit and Yamashita Park, among other points, offering a scenic route to the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. The journey takes approximately 15-25 minutes from Yokohama Bay Quarter (near Yokohama Station) and costs ¥800 one way.
