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Getting Around Kawasaki

Getting Around Kawasaki

Kawasaki Kanagawa, Japan Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Yokohama's public transit system offers convenient and reliable travel throughout the city and to surrounding areas. Trains, buses, and subways form the backbone of this network.

Trains (JR and Private Lines): Yokohama Station is the main hub, connecting to JR Lines (Tokaido, Yokosuka, Keihin-Tohoku, Shonan-Shinjuku) for inter-city travel and Private Lines (Tokyu Toyoko, Keikyu, Sotetsu, Minatomirai Lines) for local and regional routes. Shin-Yokohama Station is the Shinkansen stop.

Transit System Highlights

  • Yokohama Municipal Subway: Blue Line & Green Line serve city areas.
  • Buses: Extensive networks covering areas not directly served by trains.
  • Seaside Line: Automated guideway transit in southern Yokohama.
  • Route Maps: Available at stations, tourist centers, plus mobile apps (Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner).

Ticketing & Fares

IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo) are highly recommended. Purchase at station ticket machines. Also, paper tickets for a single trips and various day passes are available.

Hours & Frequency

Trains and subways run from ~5:00 AM to midnight, with frequent services. Coaches have similar hours but may be less frequent late at night.

Accessibility

Major stations and newer lines offer elevators, escalators, plus accessible bathrooms. Newer buses are often low-floor.

Tips for Navigating Public Transport

Efficiency & Payment
  • Use IC Cards: Suica or Pasmo cards simplify payment across almost all public transport.
  • Navigation Apps: Google Maps is highly effective for real-time routes and timings.
  • Avoid Rush Hour: Trains provide extremely crowded during morning (7:30-9:00 AM) and evening (5:00-7:00 PM) commutes.
  • Learn Station Names: Familiarize yourself with key stations like Yokohama, Sakuragicho, Minatomirai, Motomachi-Chukagai, and Shin-Yokohama.
  • Day Passes: Consider passes like the Minatomirai Line Pass (¥460), Yokohama One-Day Ticket (¥570), Minato Burari Ticket (¥550), or Yokohama Bay Area Pass (¥800) to save money.
  • JR Pass: If traveling extensively in Japan, a Japan Rail Pass may cover JR lines in Yokohama.

Important Hubs

Yokohama Station

City's main transportation hub.

Shin-Yokohama Station

Shinkansen (bullet train) stop.

Sakuragicho Station

Gateway to Minato Mirai and Red Brick Warehouse.

Motomachi-Chukagai Station

Access to Chinatown and Yamate district.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient, though more expensive, transportation option in Yokohama. Ride-sharing services also operate, mainly connecting to licensed taxis.

Taxi Information

  • Identification: Licensed taxis are typically dark-colored (black, yellow, or white) with a roof light and a red/green windshield light (red for available).
  • Hailing: Hail on the street, find at designated taxi stands (stations, hotels), or book via app. Passenger doors open/close automatically.
  • Fares: Metered. Initial fare ¥500-¥700 for first 1-2 km. Late-night surcharge (10 PM-5 AM) is 20% extra.
  • Payment: Most accept cash, major credit cards, and IC cards (Suica/Pasmo). Confirm options before your ride.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Apps: JapanTaxi is the most widely used. Uber operates for the most part as a taxi-hailing service, connecting to licensed taxis.
  • Safety: Taxis in Japan are very safe. Chauffeurs are courteous and professional. Taxi-related incidents are rare.
  • Cost-Effective for Groups: Taxis can be affordable for groups or short distances, especially when public transport is indirect.
  • No Tipping: People don't usually tip in Japan; it can cause confusion.

Rental Options

  • Car Rental: Requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country license. Major and local companies (Toyota, Nissan Rent-a-Car). Book in advance.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Not as common for visitors in urban areas. May need specific motorcycle endorsement on IDP.
  • Bicycle Rentals: Available around Minato Mirai. Some bike-sharing (BayBike) exists.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the left. You need to wear seatbelts. Strict drunk driving laws. Mobile phone use prohibited.
  • Road Conditions: Excellent, well-maintained roads. Signs often in Japanese and The english language.
  • Parking: Expensive and scarce in central Yokohama. Public transport is more convenient for sightseeing.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park to Osanbashi Pier, Yokohama Chinatown, Motomachi, and Yamate are ideal for walking.

Walking Tour Options

Guided tours concerning historical themes or food tours. Self-guided options with maps or apps are also available.

Bicycle Safety

Limited dedicated bike lanes in central business district. Generally safe on less busy streets and waterfront paths. Be cautious in traffic.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard public transport, Yokohama offers unique and enjoyable ways to experience the city.

Bus and Water Transport

  • Akai Kutsu (Red Shoes) Bus: Sightseeing loop bus connecting major tourist spots. Covered by Minato Burari Ticket.
  • Sea Bass: Water bus service connecting Yokohama Station to Minato Mirai, Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park.
  • Marine Rouge/Marine Shuttle: Sightseeing cruises departing from Yamashita Park for Yokohama Bay tours.
  • These options offer scenic views from different perspectives.

Unique Local Transport

  • Yokohama Air Cabin: Urban ropeway connecting Sakuragicho Station to Unga Green space. Offers unique aerial views of Minato Mirai, especially at night.
  • Scenic Perspective: A convenient and scenic way to traverse a bit of the waterfront.
  • Accessibility Services: Key transport hubs and more modern sights provide facilities for travelers with mobility needs (elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms).
  • Prior Contact: For specific needs, contacting attractions or transit operators in advance can help.

Specialized Transport Features

Akai Kutsu Bus

Convenient loop bus for main tourist attractions.

Included in Minato Burari Ticket.

Sea Bass

Water bus service for scenic waterfront travel.

Connects Yokohama Station to Minato Mirai.

Yokohama Air Cabin

Urban ropeway for unique aerial views.

Especially striking at night.

Visual Context for Mobility

Yokohama Air Cabin Overview
  • Location: Connects Sakuragicho Station to Unga Park in Minato Mirai.
  • Views: Panoramic aerial views of the Minato Mirai skyline and Yokohama Bay.
  • Nighttime: especially impressive when the city lights sparkle.
Mobility Benefits
  • Transition: Provides a quick link between waterfront attractions.
  • Photography: An excellent vantage point for unique urban photography.
  • Experience: Offers a fun and memorable way of seeing the area.

Driving Not Recommended for Urban Core

  • Traffic Congestion: Central Yokohama has heavy traffic.
  • Complex Roads: Navigating one-way systems can be confusing.
  • Parking Challenges: Limited and expensive parking options.
  • Cost: Higher expense compared to public transport.
  • Public Transport: More efficient and less stressful for urban sightseeing.
  • Walking: Many areas are pedestrian-friendly.
  • Specialized Transport: Water buses and cable cars offer unique views.
  • Taxis: Good for short distances or specific routes when direct public transport is unavailable.

Visual Context

The Yokohama Air Cabin, pictured at Sakuragicho Station, exemplifies the city's innovative approach to city transit and sightseeing.

Air Cabin Perspective

  • Presents a differentive elevated view of Minato Mirai.
  • Showcases the contemporary architecture and urban landscape.
  • Highlights the blend of city life with the the area around the bay.
  • Especially captivating during evening illuminations.

Travel Experience

  • A fun and relaxed way to move from one sight to another.
  • Complements walking tours in the Minato Mirai district.
  • Suitable for all ages, offering an unique perspective.

Urban Ropeway

Japan's first urban ropeway, connecting two areas.

Sakuragicho Access

Directly links Sakuragicho Station to Unga Green space.

Scenic Views

Offers unparalleled aerial views of the Minato Mirai skyline.

Mobility & Accessibility

Enhanced Urban Movement
  • The Air Cabin streamlines travel between waterfront attractions.
  • Provides a novel and direct route, avoiding street-level traffic.
  • Connects visitors to parks and shopping areas with ease.
Accessible Features
  • Designed with accessibility in mind, welcoming all travelers.
  • A family-friendly attraction, appropriate for different group types.

Final Tip

Purchase an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) at a major station upon arrival.

It significantly makes travel easier on all trains, subways, and buses, saving valuable time at ticket machines and causing your Yokohama explorations smoother.

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