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According to historians, Yokohama dates back to the 11th century. The
Kanmu Heishi family is said to be from Yokohama. Yokohama was ruled by
the descendants of Yoshibumi Taira, up to the 16th century.
In the 12th century, the Kamakura period, Yokohama was developing, and
Shomyoji Temple and Kanazawa Bunko were built in Kanazawa by Hojo. At
the same time, rice cultivation had taken root in Kozukue, by Yasutsuna
Sasaki.
With the exception of the Mutsuura Clan in Kanazawa which came under the
rule of a feudal lord, most of Yokohama came under the direct control of
the feudal government during the Edo Period.
In 1601 Kanagawa and Hodogaya became post stations on the Tokaido Route.
This was later followed in 1604 when Totsuka was also established as a
post station. In the early 19th century as the population increased,
Kanagawa steadily gained significance and became an important town
similar to Odawara, a castle town.
Here are some of the tourist attractions to be found in Yokohama:
The full charm of Yokohama as a port city is brought to the fore with
the sight of soaring sea gulls flying overhead and the sight of ships of
all sizes coming in and out of the harbor.
1. Chinatown A rea
One of the biggest versions of Chinatown in the world, visitors are
transported to a seemingly different world upon first stepping through
the elaborately designed gates situated on the town’s east, west, south,
and north. Typically populated and chaotic, the Chinese culture is
typified wonderfully and completely in the town’s exotic and busy
atmosphere.
2. Kannai/Isezaki-cho Areas
An area of firsts, this is the place where the first gas lamp was lit
and the Japanese had their first taste of ice cream. A fusion of
cultures both old and new, the over all effect is an atmosphere that is
cheerful, jovial, yet dynamic at the same time.
3. Sakuragi-cho/ Noge Areas
A friendly, cheerful place with an “old town” flavor. History and
literary discoveries are the possibilities that hold promise in this
area. Tourists may also take a gander and drop by the Nogeyama zoo for a
relaxing afternoon or family day trip
4. Minato Mirai 21 Areas
Dynamic with a never-ending show of progress, Minato Mirai has come to
be recognized as the shopping and leisure area for both locals and
tourists alike. Dining is not a problem as there are plenty of
restaurants and stalls to choose from that cater to customers of every
age or gustatory taste.
5. Yokohama Station Area
With its wide variety of department stores, hotels, and movie theaters
and commercial facilities, this area forms the largest scale shopping
zone in the city.
6. Shin-Yokohama Area
Yokohama’s second city, the sight that greets most tourists coming in
from the Shinkansen (bullet train) is an abundance of city hotels, and
facilities for entertainment and shopping.
7. Honmoku/Negishi/Isogo Areas
With a distinctively “American” yet largely laid-backfeel, the Honmoku,
Negishi, and Isogo Areas make for a good opportunity for a stroll on the
quiet hill side. Fishing may also be done by the shore for those who
find the thrill of catching fish the perfect mode of relaxation.
 8.
Tsurumi/Northern Yokohama
The co-existence of historical and cultural facilities together with the
more modern and up-to-date institutions located in the area strike a
balance between the old, the new, and the past from which the future has
come from.
For a better feel of Yokohama’s history and culture, the “Opening of
Civilization” or “Harbor Town” tour programs explain and expound the
historical and aesthetic aspects of the structures and historical sites
to be found in the area.
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