In this article, we introduce completely free outing spots in the Yokohama Minato Mirai area where foreign families with young children can have fun together.
Minato Mirai is a waterfront district in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. The area is divided into several sections: the “Central District,” home to Landmark Tower; the “Shinko District,” where you’ll find the Red Brick Warehouse and Cosmo World; and the “Yokohama Station East Exit District,” featuring Sky Building.
In addition to shopping and food strolling, Minato Mirai is a top sightseeing area in Yokohama, offering breathtaking night views. It is a pleasant bay area where parents can enjoy sightseeing while their children play. Before visiting, please check the latest information on opening hours and events, and plan a family outing on a nice sunny day!
1. Yokohama Red Brick Park
One of Yokohama’s iconic spots, the area around the Red Brick Warehouse features an open plaza where you can enjoy a stroll or check out ongoing events. On weekends, you’ll often find family-friendly free events and markets. The large seaside plaza nearby is perfect for children to run around and for families to relax.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.yokohama-akarenga.jp/
📍 Location: 1 Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JqGT2xsS9HSP6T9a6
2. Yamashita Park
A beautiful park overlooking Yokohama Port, featuring spacious grassy areas and playground equipment where children can have fun while enjoying the view. The well-maintained walking paths make it a great place for adults to relax as well. Strolling while gazing at the ocean is truly refreshing experience.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.welcome.city.yokohama.jp/spot/details.php?bbid=190
📍 Location: 279 Yamashita-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SvEKGJAB3nSETEzB9
3. Zou-no-Hana Park
Located in the Minato Mirai area, Zou-no-Hana Park is a seaside plaza offering stunning views of Yokohama’s iconic landmarks, including Minato Mirai, the Red Brick Warehouse, the Three Towers of Yokohama, and the Osanbashi Pier. The park has wide grassy areas where families can relax, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic. Free outdoor art exhibitions are occasionally held, providing a fun experience for children.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.zounohana.com/
📍 Location: 1 Kaigandori, Naka-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/27EzxL4Gsb7wEbnq7
4. Rinko Park
Located in Minato Mirai, Rinko Park is a vast green space overlooking Yokohama Port. It features wide grassy fields, a tidal pond, and a gently curving waterfront, creating an open and relaxing atmosphere. Rinko Park is popular among families and tourists alike.
🔗 Official
🔗 Official Website: https://www.pacifico.co.jp/outdoor/rinko-park
📍 Location: 1 Minato Mirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1NC8sSTSVqJxfkB9
5. Harbor View Park
Situated on a hill, this park offers panoramic views of Yokohama Port. The English Rose Garden within the park is a famous spot for viewing roses, with peak seasons in mid-May to mid-June and mid-October to mid-November. The spacious grassy areas and playgrounds make it perfect for picnics and outdoor fun with children.
📍 Location: 114 Yamate-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tFb3frhKxtHcPwDJ6
6. Nogeyama Zoo
Located in Nishi Ward, Nogeyama Zoo is a free urban zoo where visitors can see around 100 species of animals, including lions, giraffes, and red pandas. The “Nakayoshi Plaza” area allows children to interact with small animals like rabbits, making it a fantastic spot for young kids to enjoy.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.hama-midorinokyokai.or.jp/zoo/nogeyama/
📍 Location: 63-10 Oimatsu-cho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5W7iNw2tvHWHg8EG6
7. Yokohama City Libraries
Yokohama has a network of municipal libraries, with one in each of its 18 wards. They offer extensive collections of picture books and children’s literature, as well as storytelling events and English books, making them ideal for foreign families. The largest is the Yokohama City Central Library, which houses around 1.3 million books.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/kurashi/kyodo-manabi/library/
📍 Central Library Location: 1 Oimatsu-cho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cciEHnTCSz8ZRfT79
8. Yokohama Children’s Botanical Garden
Located in Minami Ward, the Yokohama Children’s Botanical Garden spans 3 hectares and features themed areas such as flower beds, a rose garden, a wildflower garden, a fruit garden, and an herb garden. The park has 28 plant quiz panels, making learning about nature fun for children. The garden also offers interactive programs for young learners.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.hama-midorinokyokai.or.jp/kodomo/
📍 Location: 122-3 Mutsukawa, Minami-ku, Yokohama
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aaxJbBE5x3AaXUo87
All these spots can be enjoyed for free! Be sure to check the official websites for the latest updates and event information before heading out.
