Yokohama Oktoberfest Celebration Beer Food Music Fun Entertainment Japan

Yokohama Oktoberfest is a vibrant celebration that brings the spirit of Bavarian culture to Japan, offering a unique blend of German beer, traditional food, and lively entertainment. Held annually at the historic Red Brick Warehouse in Yokohama, this festival is a must-visit event for anyone looking to experience the authentic atmosphere of Oktoberfest.

Dates and Venue

Yokohama Oktoberfest typically takes place over two weeks in late September and early October. The event is held at the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, a historic venue that adds a charming backdrop to the festivities. The warehouse is located in the Minato Mirai 21 area, making it easily accessible from Bashamichi Station (Minato Mirai Line) and Sakuragicho Station (JR and Yokohama Municipal Subway).

Event Schedule

The festival operates on a daily schedule, with different hours for weekdays and weekends. On weekdays, the event runs from 12:00 to 21:30, while on weekends and holidays, it starts earlier at 11:00 and closes at 21:30. In the event of storms or strong winds, the event may be suspended.

Admission and Tickets

Admission to the festival costs ¥500, which allows re-entry. Junior High students and younger can enter for free, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Advance seat reservations are available for an additional fee, which can be beneficial for securing a spot, especially on busy days.

Beer Selection

One of the main attractions of Yokohama Oktoberfest is the extensive selection of beers. With over 100 varieties available, including limited-edition Oktoberfest beers and some that are sold in Japan for the first time, beer enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy. Beers are typically priced between ¥1,000 to ¥1,300 for a 0.5-liter glass, with a one-time deposit of ¥1,000 for the stein glass, which is refundable unless the glass is damaged.

Food Options

The festival offers a variety of traditional German foods, such as bratwurst, sauerkraut, potatoes, and ham. While the food is predictably pricey for an event of this nature, the quality and authenticity of the dishes make it well worth the cost. For those looking to save money, the entrance ticket allows re-entry, so attendees can eat elsewhere and return to the festival.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The true highlight of Yokohama Oktoberfest is its lively atmosphere. The event features live performances by German bands, including oom-pah bands that play traditional Bavarian music and popular cover songs. These performances take place several times a day, with the final performance of the night being particularly energetic, often leading to dancing and singing among the crowd.

Family-Friendly

Despite being primarily a beer festival, Yokohama Oktoberfest is family-friendly. The venue includes both indoor and outdoor facilities, making it suitable for all weather conditions except high winds. This allows families to enjoy the food, music, and overall festive atmosphere together.

Tips for Attendees

• Arrival Time: Be prepared for long lines, especially on national holidays. Arriving early can help avoid some of the congestion.
• Food and Drink: While the food and drinks at the festival are authentic and delicious, they can be pricey. Consider eating elsewhere and returning to the festival to save money.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast before attending, as strong winds can cause the event to be suspended.
• Advance Reservations: If you plan to attend on a busy day, consider making advance seat reservations to secure a spot.

Getting There

The closest railway stations to the venue are Bashamichi Station (Minato Mirai Line) and Sakuragicho Station (JR and Yokohama Municipal Subway). The walk from these stations to the Red Brick Warehouse is approximately 6-15 minutes.