A Culinary Adventure in Yokohamas Chinatown

Yokohama's Chinatown, known as Yokohama Chūkagai, is Japan's largest and most vibrant hub for authentic Chinese culture and cuisine, offering a culinary adventure that spans from street food to fine dining. This bustling enclave is a must-visit for food lovers, providing a rich blend of Chinese and Japanese influences.

History and Cultural Significance

Yokohama Chinatown was established in 1859 following the opening of Yokohama as an international port, attracting many Chinese traders and immigrants. This community grew into the thriving Chinatown we know today, with Chinese schools and a strong presence of Chinese residents. The area symbolizes the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and China and the embracing of Chinese culture, making it an essential part of Yokohama's diverse culture.

Getting There

To reach Yokohama's Chinatown, you can take the Tokyo-Toyoko Line from Shibuya Station to Motomachi-Chukagai Station (approximately 39 minutes, 480 yen) or the Keihin-Tohoku Line from Shinagawa Station to Ishikawachō Station (approximately 35 minutes, 470 yen). If you are already in Yokohama, you can use the Minatomirai Line to Motomachi-Chukagai Station (210 yen, 6-minute walk away), the JR Negishi Line to Ishikawacho Station (160 yen, 8-minute walk away), or the Blue Line to Kannai (210 yen, 12-minute walk away) from Yokohama Station. The Akai Kutsu tourist-friendly bus service is also available, running every 15 minutes with a one-way fare of ¥100.

Culinary Highlights

Traditional Chinese Cuisine

Yokohama Chinatown offers a diverse array of traditional Chinese dishes, reflecting various regional cuisines such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, Sichuan, and Taiwanese. Here are some must-try dishes and restaurants:

• Beijing Cuisine: Peking roast duck is a standout dish, served with the skin, meat, and bone as part of one course. Steamed buns and boiled Chinese-style dumplings are also popular.
• Shanghai Cuisine: Known for its thick and slightly sweet flavors, Shanghai cuisine includes dishes like Shanghai hairy crab (seasonal) and juicy steamed pork buns.
• Guangdong Cuisine: Lightly seasoned dishes like shark fin soup and chop suey are characteristic of this cuisine.
• Sichuan Cuisine: Famous for its spicy dishes, Sichuan cuisine offers spicy bean curd and shrimp with chili sauce.

Recommended Restaurants

• Jukeihanten Yokohama Chukagai Shinkan: Known for its Cantonese cuisine, this restaurant offers shrimp dumplings and barbecue pork buns.
• Manchinro Main Store: Specializes in Peking duck, providing an unforgettable dining experience.
• Daichinro Shinkan: Offers Cantonese dishes like crispy spring rolls and sweet and sour pork.
• Kokien: Blends Taiwanese and Chinese flavors, featuring dishes like spicy beef noodle soup and Taiwanese pineapple cake.
• Wangfujing Restaurant: Specializes in Northern Chinese cuisine, with signature dishes like dumplings and Beijing-style noodles.
• Koushouki Shinkan: Known for Szechuan cuisine, serving fiery favorites like mapo tofu and Szechuan peppercorn chicken.

Street Food

Street food is a significant part of the culinary experience in Yokohama's Chinatown. Here are some must-try street foods:

• Yaki Shoronpo (Fried Soup Dumplings): Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these dumplings are a must-try.
• Koshou Mochi (Taiwanese Black Pepper Bun): A popular street food with a unique flavor.
• Mensen (Taiwanese Oyster Noodle Soup): A comforting and flavorful soup made with oysters and vermicelli noodles.
• Egg Tart: A classic Hong Kong-style dessert with a smooth and custardy egg filling and a crispy, flaky exterior.
• Age Goma Dango (Fried Sesame Ball): A fan favorite with a crispy sesame-studded exterior and smooth red bean paste filling.

Cultural Exploration

Beyond the food, Yokohama's Chinatown offers a glimpse into the local Chinese community. You can visit the local Chinese school and explore the various shops and temples, such as Kanteibyo Temple and Mazu Miao temple. These cultural attractions add another layer to your culinary adventure, allowing you to dive deep into the local culture.

Tips for Visitors

• Navigation: Use the Minato Burari ticket for convenient travel around Yokohama's main sightseeing spots, including Chinatown, for just ¥500 per day.
• Seasonal Dishes: Be sure to try seasonal dishes, such as Shanghai hairy crab, which is available only in October and November.
• Authenticity: While some high-end restaurants may tailor their dishes to a Japanese palate, street food and certain traditional restaurants offer more authentic Chinese flavors.

By exploring these culinary highlights and cultural attractions, you can experience the full richness of Yokohama's Chinatown, making your visit a memorable and satisfying culinary adventure.