Yokohama Chinatown: Where To Celebrate Lunar New Year in Japan
You can find a Chinatown in almost every major city in the world, so it’s not surprise that Japan is home to few itself! Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan, and Yokohama Chinatown or Chukagai is thought to be one of Japan’s largest. Today we’re visiting to observe Lunar New Year celebrations and to get a better sense of Chinese culture in Japan.
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How to get to Yokohama Chinatown
Yokohama is about one hour away from Tokyo by train. From Yokohama Station, Chukagai is just under another 10 minute train ride away.
You’ll be greeted by one of four large and colourful gates facing in each direction. There are additional gates within Chinatown.
When the port of Yokohama opened up to foreign trade in 1859, Chinese immigrants arrived and formed settlements here. Today it’s a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood and popular tourist destination — with more businesses than residents.
It’s especially busy during Lunar New Year, and you’ll find lanterns strung in every corner. The festivities last for 15 days.
Things To Do
Of course, the best thing about Chinatown is the food. You’ll find all the staples of Chinese cuisine here, alongside restaurants serving dishes from other Asian cultures. My only advice is to wander and try to eat as much as you can — dumplings, candied strawberries & chestnuts are all popular snacks to go — and take in all the stunning temples and architecture that remain today. Kanteibyo Temple is an impressive, tranquil space in the center of Chinatown.
Lunar New Year celebrations
During Lunar New Year, you can expect to hear lot of noise as firecrackers and teams of lion dancers move through the streets and storefronts. But one of the biggest draws is the Celebration Parade, filled with Chinese culture: you’ll find costumed performers and teams of traditional lion & dragon dancers making their way through the main streets. It’s a spectacle that lasts several hours from the afternoon into the evening.
Looking for more to do in Japan? Check out two of Japan’s newest attractions: Shibuya Sky & teamLab Borderless!
