We decided to spend the afternoon wandering through Yokohama’s Chinatown, mostly because I’d heard it was one of the biggest in the world and people kept mentioning the dumplings. The entrance was super photogenic, and there’s definitely a fun energy as soon as you step in. Bright signs, food smells hitting you from all directions, and so many people weaving between stalls and storefronts. It felt like a street festival that just never ends.
I was really looking forward to grabbing dumplings from one of the busier shops — figured that would be a safe bet. But honestly, they were pretty disappointing. The meat filling barely tasted like meat, and I actually found myself wondering if there was any inside at all. The bottom of the dumpling was burnt, not crispy in a good way, and the dough was thick and chewy. I still ate a few out of hunger, but it wasn’t what I’d call enjoyable. Maybe I just picked the wrong place, but with all the hype, I expected better.
That said, it was still a cool spot to explore. The temples tucked between food stands were unexpected and gorgeous, and the mix of old-school shops and over-the-top touristy ones made for a fun contrast. If you go, I’d suggest looking up a few spots in advance or asking locals where to eat. There’s definitely good food here — I just didn’t find it on my first try.
A Stroll Through the Bustling Walking Street
Walking through this lively street is like stepping into a festival that never ends. It’s packed with people soaking in the vibrant energy, and the sheer number of restaurants and snack stalls makes it feel like a food lover’s paradise. The crowd is part of the charm, so patience is key—long queues are the norm here. But the fun part? Watching other people enjoy their food as you eagerly wait your turn, knowing your treat is coming soon!
With so many choices, you’ll want to strategize a bit. Not every spot lives up to its picture-perfect displays. Some places will draw you in with tempting food photos, but the taste might not match the hype—cold dishes and underwhelming flavors can be a letdown. Unfortunately, the restaurant I tried didn’t have an English name, so I can’t recommend it specifically, but let’s just say it was hit-or-miss.
What truly stole the show for me, though, were the adorable dogs! They added a delightful touch to the lively atmosphere, making the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re visiting, bring your appetite, your patience, and maybe a mental checklist of which spots to try. You’ll have a memorable time soaking in the sights, sounds, and tastes of this bustling street.
This was the best China Town I have ever visited in the world. It is integrated in the Japanese society and still keeps its cultural uniqueness. We had dinners here two days in a row during our stay in Yokohama and probably would visit more if we were staying longer. The food here is authentic if not better than the food in China. I am native Chinese and I approve the genuineness of this place.
I visited Yokohama Chinatown during Chinese New Year 2025 🐍!
The streets were beautifully decorated with lanterns, and the festive atmosphere was amazing.
There were many delicious food options, from steamed buns to Peking duck. It was quite crowded, but that added to the excitement.
A great place to experience Chinese culture in Japan.
A little piece of China in Yokohama. The decorations and buildings are very beautiful, and there are many Chinese restaurants. We went to a Chinese restaurant, and I must admit we didn’t like it—it was expensive, but the experience was worth it. It’s a nice place to visit.
