Nihonodori (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | History and Highlights of Japan’s First Western-Style Street
What is Nihonodori?
Nihonodori is a street located in Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is Japan’s first Western-style street. This avenue, which extends from Yokohama Park to Elephant’s Nose Park at Yokohama Port, was designed by British architect Richard Henry Bruton (R.H. Bruton) and was nearly completed in 1870 (Meiji 3), officially named “Nihonodori” in 1875 (Meiji 8).
The street boasts a revolutionary scale for its time, with a total length of approximately 430 meters and a width of 36 meters, featuring a 9-meter central roadway and sidewalks and tree-lined areas of 13.5 meters on each side. Today, it remains one of Yokohama’s representative landscapes and is beloved by many tourists and local residents alike.
Basic Information about Nihonodori
Address: Nihonodori, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Access:
- Direct exit from Minato Mirai Line “Nihonodori Station” (Alternative name: Prefectural Government Office/Osanbashi)
- Approximately 8 minutes on foot from JR Negishi Line/Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line “Kannai Station”
- Approximately 6 minutes by Minato Mirai Line from Yokohama Station
Station Number: MM05 (Minato Mirai Line)
Surrounding Area: Yokohama City Center (Kannai District), adjacent to Yamashita Park and Chinatown
History of Nihonodori
Port Opening and Birth of the Street
Following Yokohama’s opening to foreign trade in 1859 (Ansei 6), a foreign settlement was established, but in 1866 (Keio 2), the Great Fire of Yokohama (Butaoya Fire) destroyed much of the settlement. Following this fire, at the request of British Minister Harry Parkes, urban planning that considered fire prevention measures was proposed.
Bruton designed a wide street to prevent fire spread, placing a roadway in the center with wide tree-lined areas and sidewalks on both sides. These tree-lined areas functioned as fire prevention zones in the design, reflecting modern urban planning ideology.
Development in the Meiji Period
Upon completion, Nihonodori functioned as Yokohama’s main street, with government offices and important facilities being built successively. The street became lined with buildings including the Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building and courts and customs offices, developing into the political and economic center of Yokohama.
Preservation and Utilization in Modern Times
With the opening of the Minato Mirai Line in 2002 (Heisei 14) and the opening of Nihonodori Station, access was greatly improved. Currently, preservation of historic buildings and modern utilization coexist, with the area being used as open-air cafes and event spaces.
Historic Buildings Along Nihonodori
Many substantial historic buildings constructed from the Taisho through early Showa periods remain in the vicinity of Nihonodori. These serve important roles today as Yokohama’s historic heritage, including the famous “Yokohama Three Towers.”
Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building (King)
Completed in 1928 (Showa 3), the Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building is affectionately known as the “King Tower.” This Taisho-Gothic style structure with a tower approximately 49 meters high is designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Designed by Yoshiro Oo, it is known as a representative example of post-Great Kanto Earthquake reconstruction architecture.
Yokohama Customs Building (Queen)
Completed in 1934 (Showa 9), Yokohama Customs is called the “Queen Tower,” distinguished by its green patina dome-shaped tower reminiscent of an Islamic mosque. The approximately 51-meter-high tower functions as a landmark for Yokohama Port and is also a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall (Jack)
Completed in 1917 (Taisho 6), the Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall is known as the “Jack Tower.” Built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Yokohama’s opening, this red brick building features a clock tower approximately 36 meters high. Designated as a National Important Cultural Property, it continues to function as a public assembly hall.
Other Important Buildings
Yokohama Port Opening Historical Archives (Former British Consulate-General)
A museum utilizing a building constructed in 1931 (Showa 6), displaying valuable historical materials related to Yokohama’s opening.
Yokohama Information Culture Center (Former Yokohama Commerce Promotion Hall)
Completed in 1929 (Showa 4), this building now houses the Broadcasting Library and the Newspaper Museum (Newspark).
Yokohama District Court
Completed in 1929 (Showa 4), this classical-style building is characterized by its substantial stone exterior.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Yokohama Building
Built in 1911 (Meiji 44), this modern architecture symbolizes Yokohama’s commercial development.
Nihonodori Through the Seasons and Highlights
Nihonodori in Spring
Spring brings beautiful fresh greenery and comfortable weather for strolling. From April through May, tulips bloom abundantly in nearby Yokohama Park, attracting many tourists who visit both areas. Open-air cafes reopen for the season, creating an ideal spot to enjoy the pleasant weather.
Summer Events
Various events are held during summer. Utilizing the wide sidewalks and tree-lined areas, markets and food festivals are held, adding color to Yokohama’s summer. The abundance of shade makes it relatively comfortable even in mid-summer.
Autumn Foliage
If there is one season when Nihonodori is most beautiful, it is autumn. Approximately 100 ginkgo trees planted along the street turn brilliant gold, making it one of Yokohama’s most famous foliage-viewing spots. The best viewing time is typically from late November through early December, with the contrast between golden ginkgos and historic buildings creating a spectacular scene.
From open-air cafe terrace seats, visitors can spend leisurely time while gazing at the golden ginkgos, making it a popular rest spot for locals. The sidewalks carpeted with fallen leaves have a special charm and are ideal for photography.
Winter Illuminations
Nihonodori is illuminated during winter. During the Christmas season, ginkgo trees are lit up, creating a magical atmosphere. Coordinating with illumination events throughout the Minato Mirai district, it has become an established winter tradition in Yokohama.
Characteristics and Access of Nihonodori Station
Station Overview
Nihonodori Station is a station on the Yokohama High-Speed Railway Minato Mirai Line, opening on February 1, 2004 (Heisei 16). Its alternative name is “Prefectural Government Office/Osanbashi,” indicating the nearby major facilities. Located in the Kannai district, one of Yokohama’s two city centers (Twin Core), it functions as a cultural and historical landmark station.
Access to Nearby Station Facilities
Osanbashi (Yokohama Port Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal): Approximately 7 minutes on foot
The passenger ship terminal where the rooftop deck offers panoramic views of Yokohama Port.
Yamashita Park: Approximately 5 minutes on foot
Yokohama’s representative waterfront park with notable sights including the Hikawa Maru and a statue of a girl in red shoes.
Yokohama Chinatown: Approximately 10 minutes on foot
Japan’s largest Chinatown offering authentic Chinese cuisine and street food experiences.
Yokohama Stadium: Approximately 8 minutes on foot
Home of professional baseball team Yokohama DeNA BayStars, located within Yokohama Park.
Access Times from Major Stations
- From Yokohama Station: Approximately 6 minutes by Minato Mirai Line
- From Shibuya Station: Approximately 40 minutes via Tokyu Toyoko Line/Minato Mirai Line direct service
- From Shinjuku Station: Approximately 50 minutes via JR/Minato Mirai Line
- From Shinagawa Station: Approximately 40 minutes via JR/Minato Mirai Line
The Minato Mirai Line operates through-running service with Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, making access from central Tokyo highly convenient.
Ways to Enjoy the Area Around Nihonodori
Relaxing at Open-Air Cafes
Numerous open-air cafes operate along Nihonodori, taking advantage of the wide sidewalks. Visitors can enjoy coffee and light meals while viewing historic buildings. Especially from spring through autumn, one can spend leisurely time feeling the pleasant breeze.
Enjoying an Architecture Tour
The Nihonodori area, concentrated with historic buildings, is a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts. Various architectural styles from the Taisho through early Showa periods can be seen at once, making it ideal for architectural walks. Some buildings allow interior viewing, allowing for deeper historical appreciation.
Using as a Photography Location
Nihonodori is frequently used as a filming location for dramas and movies. The landscape, harmonizing retro townscape with modern elements, is popular with professional photographers and general photography enthusiasts alike. Especially during autumn foliage and illumination seasons, it becomes an outstanding photography spot.
Participating in Events
Throughout the year, various events are held on Nihonodori, including markets, music events, and art festivals. Events utilizing the wide sidewalk space provide good opportunities to experience Yokohama’s culture.
Combining with Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Yokohama Sightseeing Model Course
Morning: Minato Mirai area (Landmark Tower, Red Brick Warehouse)
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Lunch: Nihonodori stroll, lunch at an open-air cafe
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Afternoon: Osanbashi, Yamashita Park, Yokohama Chinatown
This course allows efficient touring of Yokohama’s major tourist spots.
History Exploration Course
Starting from Nihonodori, visiting the Port Opening Historical Archives to learn history, touring the Yokohama Three Towers, and viewing the historic wharf ruins at Elephant’s Nose Park is also recommended. This course allows systematic understanding of Yokohama’s history from opening to present.
Livability Around Nihonodori Station
Living Environment
The area around Nihonodori Station, with many government offices and historic buildings, has scattered residential properties. The opening of the Minato Mirai Line has improved access to the city center, drawing attention as a convenient residential area.
Commercial Facilities
While large shopping centers are scarce nearby, Kannai and Yokohama stations are close, leaving no shopping concerns. Cafes and restaurants are well-stocked, characterized by quality dining establishments.
Cultural Facilities
Cultural and educational facilities abound, including the Newspaper Museum, Broadcasting Library, and Port Opening Historical Archives. Nearby libraries and parks make it an ideal environment for a culturally-rich lifestyle.
Cultural Value of Nihonodori
Significance in Urban Planning History
Nihonodori holds an important position in urban planning history as a pioneer of modern Japanese urban planning. The concept of wide-width roadways serving as firebreaks significantly influenced subsequent Japanese urban planning.
Landscape Conservation Efforts
Yokohama City has designated the area around Nihonodori as a target district under its “Historic Town Development Guidelines,” working to preserve the landscape. New buildings are required to meet height restrictions and exterior harmony, preserving the historic townscape.
Evaluation as Cultural Property
Nihonodori is registered in the Cultural Heritage Online and is highly valued as Japanese modern heritage. As a main street with ginkgo tree rows, it is a precious existence conveying Meiji-period urban planning to the present day.
Notes and Advice for Visits
Best Season
The foliage season (late November through early December) is most popular, but spring’s fresh greenery and winter’s illuminations each have their own appeal. To avoid crowds, weekday mornings are recommended.
Time Required
Strolling Nihonodori alone takes about 30 minutes, but allowing 2-3 hours is advisable if viewing nearby historic buildings or relaxing at cafes.
Clothing and Belongings
While sidewalks are well-maintained, comfortable walking shoes are recommended as strolling is central. In summer, hats or parasols are needed for strong sunlight; in winter, windproof clothing is necessary for cold sea breezes.
Parking Information
Coin parking is available nearby, but public transportation is more convenient. Especially on weekends and during events, electric train access is recommended.
Summary
Nihonodori, as Japan’s first Western-style street, holds important historical and cultural value as a symbol of Yokohama. The area is packed with diverse charms, including substantial historic buildings such as the Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building, beautiful ginkgo tree rows, and the pleasant atmosphere of open-air cafes.
With the opening of the Minato Mirai Line, it boasts excellent access of approximately 6 minutes from Yokohama Station and is close to popular tourist spots including Yamashita Park, Osanbashi, and Yokohama Chinatown, making it an ideal base for Yokohama sightseeing.
Nihonodori, which presents different faces through the seasons, is a fascinating spot with new discoveries on each visit. Please visit this street where Yokohama’s history and culture can be experienced. While strolling through the townscape lined with historic buildings, you will be able to feel Yokohama’s path since its opening to foreign trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of Nihonodori?
Nihonodori, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The nearest station is Minato Mirai Line’s Nihonodori Station (Alternative name: Prefectural Government Office/Osanbashi), with the street directly accessible from the station exit.
When is the best time to see the ginkgo foliage on Nihonodori?
The foliage typically peaks from late November through early December. Though varying slightly with weather conditions, this period creates a beautiful landscape as the ginkgo trees turn golden.
How long does it take from Nihonodori Station to Yokohama Chinatown?
About 10 minutes on foot. The typical route is walking along Nihonodori toward Yamashita Park and continuing toward Chinatown.
Are events held on Nihonodori?
Yes, various events are held throughout the year, including markets, food festivals, music events, and art festivals. Details can be checked on Yokohama City’s tourism information website.
Can the interior of historic buildings around Nihonodori be viewed?
Some buildings are open for interior viewing. The Port Opening Historical Archives, Yokohama Port Opening Memorial Hall, and Yokohama Information Culture Center (Newspaper Museum/Broadcasting Library) are open to the public. The Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building also has limited viewing areas available. However, as viewing hours and closures vary, advance confirmation is recommended.
Are dramas and movies filmed on Nihonodori?
Frequently. The retro townscape and historic buildings make it an attractive filming location for many dramas, films, and commercials. With luck, one might encounter a filming site.
Are there accommodation facilities near Nihonodori Station?
Multiple hotels exist in the station vicinity. Various classes of hotels are scattered throughout the Minato Mirai district, Kannai district, and areas around Yamashita Park, making it convenient as a sightseeing base. It is an ideal location for enjoying Yokohama tourism.
Can wheelchair users stroll Nihonodori?
The sidewalks are wide, flat, and wheelchair-accessible for strolling. However, some historic buildings being older structures may have restrictions on interior viewing.
