Yokohama: A Premier Destination for Relocation

Yokohama, adjacent to the south-southwest of Tokyo, is the major city of the Greater Tokyo Area, having the second largest population in Japan. The head offices and branch offices of many major companies gather there and many foreign companies also establish their base of operations in newer districts of Yokohama, such as Minato Mirai 21.

Having a history of functioning as a port town, a place for foreign firms, and a home for foreign residents since the opening of Yokohama Port in the late Edo era, Yokohama has also served as the entrance city for the US base in Yokosuka after World War II and has been attracting many foreign residents and improving the convenience of their everyday life.

Most expats and their families live in the tower apartments in the Minato Mirai 21 district or in the detached houses on the hilltop of the Yamate district. These areas provide easy access to workplaces located in the city and are also convenient for living as there are many facilities tailored to foreign residents nearby. Various international schools gather in these areas. Yokohama has good access to the German School of Tokyo Yokohama, Yokohama International School, and Saint Maur International School. International supermarkets such as Motomachi Union Store are close to the Yamate district and convenient for everyday shopping, while Costco Kanazawa Seaside Warehouse is also good for weekend shopping.

There are various tourist attractions in Yokohama, including the trendy shopping area in the Minato Mirai 21 district. For amusement facilities in Yokohama, there is Yokohama Cosmo World, Yamashita Park, Yokohama Marine Tower, and Yokohama China Town and many more facilities for families, such as Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, zoos, and natural parks, which can add to your family’s enjoyment of weekends and holidays.

Quality of Life in Yokohama

Yokohama has a long-established culture of welcoming international residents since the opening of its trade port more than 150 years ago and provides many avenues for international residents to become part of the local community. It has more than ten international schools and multiple hospitals equipped with interpreters, and there are also community groups providing interpreters, multilingual consultation, and Japanese language classes, as well as a privately-run bilingual town magazine.

Yokohama’s quality of life is appreciated not only by expatriates but also by Japanese. The city placed 1st in the Best Cities Ranking (2018) in the Kanto Region, which covers Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, Ibaraki, and Saitama. The tree-lined residential areas are perfect for commuters, being more affordable than those in central Tokyo and offering a shorter commute. While tired workers living in the Greater Tokyo Area expend an hour each way for their commute, a typical Yokohama resident commuting within the city gets home in half the time.

Yokohama also boasts a unique food culture and an array of tourist, sport, and recreational destinations that add to its quality of life. Yokohama is home to Japan’s largest Chinatown, massive baseball and soccer stadiums, and Yamashita Park, which is ideal for jogging and cycling. In addition to in-town tourist destinations including Yamate/Motomachi, the Bay Area, and Noge, Yokohama offers easy access to Kamakura, Hakone, Mt. Fuji, and other popular tourist destinations in the Kanto region. 

Finally, Yokohama has been hard at work making the city an even better place for its residents by focusing its efforts on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These efforts have included goals to reduce or eliminate carbon emissions, enhance equality throughout the city, and share its knowledge with other developing cities worldwide.

Yokohama as a Center for Global Business, Creativity, & Innovation

Yokohama has attracted international attention as a global business hub, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields such as life science, IT, manufacturing, and automotive. Many international companies, including Nissan, Bosch, and Shiseido, have research and development (R&D) centers and global corporate headquarters in the city.

Among these are the countless startups and venture firms that have chosen to put down roots in Yokohama, where many interested in tech and IT have come to get their careers started. This is particularly the case in Yokohama, where there is a highly skilled workforce and established manufacturers close to Tokyo.

Yokohama is also an exciting place for researchers, students, engineers, entrepreneurs, and other workers in IT and tech. The high-rise buildings in the Minato Mirai 21 bay area district house corporate and R&D facilities, shopping, chic eateries, and museums. Nearby, the energetic Kannai district is populated by artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs who infuse the city with youthfulness and creativity. It makes sense, then, that Yokohama declared itself an “Innovation City” in 2019 — a testament to the city’s welcoming stance towards a progressive global mindset and sustainable development.

As a result, Yokohama has gained international recognition, ranking third on the “2020 Global Cities of the Future” list behind Greater Montreal, Canada, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in the Foreign Direct Investment Strategy category for large cities. The Tokyo-Yokohama area was ranked 15th on the “2022 Global Startup Ecosystem Index Report.” These reports highlight the local, regional, and global impact of Yokohama’s activities and the city’s potential to continue putting energy into sustainable development.

Global Tech Events in Yokohama

As part of Yokohama’s efforts to build up its startup ecosystem, several major events are held for engineers, academics, and students in the tech industry, as well as members of the public and government.

In July 2023 the city hosted the 22nd World Congress of the International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC). This event aims to promote and share the newest developments in automated control technology (think robotic limbs and high-tech transportation).

Furthermore, while Yokohama implements support systems for local startups and firms, a definite and growing global outreach is also occurring. International events are vital to exchanging ideas across Yokohama’s industries, educational institutions, government, and beyond borders into the global sphere.

Yokohama is a Domestic and International Business Hub that is Easy to Get to

Like its neighbor Tokyo, the City of Yokohama has substantial administrative and financial capabilities, with its ever-growing market for STEM sectors and strong economy as some of the city’s major strengths. However, what makes Yokohama a prime location for global business is not just its important domestic position, vibrant startup ecosystem, or international business environment; it’s also in a very convenient location!

Yokohama Station is a 30-minute train ride to the Tokyo city center. In addition, several Shinkansen bullet train lines run through Shin-Yokohama Station, making travel to other regions of Japan quick and easy. Yokohama is also an excellent location for international visitors and businesspeople. The train ride to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) is only about 20 minutes, and the 90-minute ride to Narita International Airport is similarly convenient.

Beyond its economic capabilities and suitable location, Yokohama is a cosmopolitan city, as it has been for many years since it opened its port to foreign trade and influence in 1859. The influx of new ideas, thoughts, and customs catalyzed the multicultural hub we see today. As a home to many foreigners, some culturally diverse communities and workplaces are welcoming, accepting of differences, and conducive to new ideas and innovations.

Yokohama’s Sustainably-Minded Partnerships: The Y-PORT Project

After World War II and during Japan’s period of high economic growth in the 1960s and 1970s, Yokohama was often called the “Dump City” due to its environmental pollution and damage caused by the rapid development of Japan’s economy. Since then, Yokohama has implemented the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — an initiative started by the United Nations to meet common goals for sustainable growth around the world.

Having cleaned up its act over the years, Yokohama’s SDGs have focused on reducing or eliminating carbon emissions, enhancing equality throughout the city, and sharing its knowledge with other developing cities worldwide. Yokohama’s project to promote the SDGs across Asia, Y-PORT, represents the city’s commitment to global interconnectedness and mutual development. Y-PORT is designed to leverage the city’s knowledge and resources to help rapidly growing cities and economies in Southeast Asia. As stated on the project’s website: “The City of Yokohama is implementing projects in cooperation with developing Asian cities such as Bangkok (Thailand), Batam (Indonesia), Cebu (Philippines), Da Nang (Vietnam), and others, focusing on infrastructure, environment, and urban development.”

A Multicultural, Green Haven

Yokohama is truly a multicultural city. About 100,000 foreign nationals are currently living in Yokohama, hailing from more than 160 different countries. The city has gradually been adapting to the growing foreign-born community, with measures such as expanding support systems like foreign language civil services and international schools.

There are also some facilities available in Yokohama that many other cities in Japan do not yet have. For example, children of expatriates attending international schools have access to field trips where they can explore local customs and traditions. With the number of foreign nationals in Yokohama expected to continue to increase, more events and services are likely to follow. If you are looking to relocate to Japan, but Tokyo seems too crowded or expensive, then consider the benefits that Yokohama can offer you and your family.

Yokohama offers a slower, quieter pace of life with great access to a range of amenities and services for foreign nationals, from international schools to supermarkets that carry popular brands from home. There are also many recreational activities in the city, including a lively arts and cultural scene, sports facilities, and parks for outdoor activities. You can enjoy an excellent quality of life in Yokohama.

Yokohama’s Sports and Spa Culture

Yokohama is a major player in Japan’s sports culture, hosting Yokohama Stadium where the Yokohama DeNA BayStars professional baseball team plays. There is also the Nissan Stadium where many international sports matches have taken place, including the final of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Moreover, Yokohama supports various sports teams and hosts sports events throughout the year. With the completion of new facilities for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, sports have become an even more significant part of Yokohama’s local culture.

The growing spa culture in Japan can also be found in Yokohama. One of the most popular and unique spa destinations is Sky Spa, a skyscraper spa on the 14th and 15th floors of a high-rise building. It offers stunning views of the city while soaking in the hot baths. Holistic healing practices like massages, saunas, and aromatherapy are readily available, providing relaxation and mindfulness exercises to refresh both body and mind.

Why Relocate to Yokohama?

Relocating to Yokohama offers an exceptional blend of advantages that make it a premier destination for both families and professionals. Here’s a summary of why you should consider making Yokohama your new home:

Strategic Location and Accessibility

Yokohama’s strategic location provides excellent access to Tokyo and other major cities in Japan. With efficient train services and proximity to both Haneda and Narita airports, commuting and traveling are convenient and stress-free.

Thriving Business Environment

As a global business hub, Yokohama attracts major international companies, startups, and research institutions. The city’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development creates a dynamic environment for business growth and career opportunities.

High Quality of Life

Yokohama offers a high quality of life with its clean, green spaces, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse recreational activities. The city’s commitment to sustainability and community well-being ensures a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.

Family-Friendly Amenities

For families, Yokohama provides excellent international schools, safe residential areas, and numerous parks and attractions. The city’s multicultural environment and comprehensive support systems make it an ideal place for expatriates.

Rich Cultural Heritage

With its rich history, diverse food culture, and numerous tourist attractions, Yokohama offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and cosmopolitan nature make it easy to feel at home.

Supportive Community

Yokohama’s supportive community and extensive services for foreign residents ensure a smooth transition and comfortable living experience. From language classes to cultural events, the city offers ample opportunities to integrate and thrive.

Innovation and Sustainability

Yokohama’s commitment to innovation and sustainability positions it as a forward-thinking city, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for creativity and development.

Relocating to Yokohama means becoming part of a city that values its residents, embraces diversity, and continually strives for excellence. Whether you’re seeking career growth, a family-friendly environment, or a high quality of life, Yokohama offers the perfect balance of opportunity and comfort. So consider making Yokohama your new home and discover a city where tradition meets innovation and dreams come to life.