Yokohama Landmark Tower: Tallest Building in Japan’s Port City

Yokohama Landmark Tower stands as a monumental landmark in the Minato Mirai 21 district of Yokohama, Japan, offering a blend of architectural marvel, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking views. This 70-floor skyscraper, at 296.3 meters tall, is a significant feature of Yokohama's skyline.

Architecture and Design

The Yokohama Landmark Tower is an engineering feat with a flexible structure designed to absorb earthquake shocks, similar to traditional Japanese multi-story pagodas. The building's design features defined corner posts and a slightly flared base, making it visually intriguing. It was designed by the architecture and engineering division of Mitsubishi Estate, now Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei, and Hugh Stubbins and Associates.

Sky Garden Observatory

The Sky Garden Observatory, located on the 69th floor, is the main attraction for tourists. This observatory offers 360-degree panoramic views of Yokohama's cityscape, Yokohama Port, Tokyo Bay, Tokyo City, and Mount Fuji on clear days. The ride to the observatory is facilitated by Japan's fastest elevators, which ascend 69 floors in under 40 seconds.

Facilities and Amenities

Yokohama Royal Park Hotel

The Yokohama Royal Park Hotel occupies the 49th to 68th floors and the 70th floor of the tower. This five-star hotel provides luxurious accommodations with incredible city views. The hotel features a traditional tea room on the 65th floor, a fitness club, a rejuvenating spa, and various dining options including French, Japanese, and Chinese cuisine.

Shopping and Dining

Yokohama Landmark Plaza, a five-story mall at the base of the tower, is connected to the skyscraper's first, third, and fifth floors. The plaza offers a variety of restaurants and shops featuring local and international brands. It is known for its open floor plan, natural lighting, and white-stone decor, making it a popular spot for shopping and public events.

Additional Attractions

• Landmark Hall: Located on the 5th floor, this hall hosts various events and performances.
• Dockyard Garden: Situated at the base of the tower, this garden provides a serene environment amidst the bustling city.
• Art and Culture: The area around the tower includes attractions like the Yokohama Museum of Art and the Yokohama Port Museum, which features the Nippon Maru sailing ship.

Practical Information

Admission and Hours

Admission to the Sky Garden Observatory costs 1,000 JPY for adults, 800 JPY for high school students and seniors (65+), 500 JPY for elementary and junior high school students, and 200 JPY for children under four years old. The observatory is open from 10:00 to 21:00, with the last admission at 20:30. Extended hours apply on Saturdays and during special holiday periods.

Accessibility

Yokohama Landmark Tower is conveniently located near public transportation. It is a 2-minute walk from Minatomirai Station on the Minatomirai Line and a 3-minute walk from Sakuragicho Station on JR East’s Negishi Line and Yokohama Municipal Subway’s Blue Line.

Unique Features

• Earthquake-Resistant Design: The tower's structure is designed to absorb earthquake shocks, ensuring safety and stability.
• Fastest Elevators: The elevators in the tower are among the fastest in the world, reaching speeds of 12.5 m/s (41 ft/s).
• Panoramic Views: The Sky Garden Observatory offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape, including Mount Fuji on clear days.

Cultural and Seasonal Events

Yokohama Landmark Plaza and the surrounding area host various cultural and seasonal events. During Christmas, the plaza features an 8-meter tall Swarovski crystal tree, a snowfall event, and a light-and-music show, making it a festive destination.