Minato Mirai 21 is a large urban district in Yokohama that has been part of an urban renewal program since the 1980s. Often referred to simply as Minato Mirai, the district’s name was chosen by public vote and is said to mean “Harbor of the Future.” Before the 1980s, the area was home to shipyards and port-related industries, which were integral to Yokohama’s maritime history.
Today, much of the development is centred around the Ooka River inlet. On the mainland side, a moving walkway connects the plaza in front of Sakuragicho Station to the Landmark Tower shopping centre. From there, Landmark Tower links to the massive Queens Square shopping complex, which in turn leads to the Pacifico Yokohama convention centre.
Across the river inlet lies Shinko Island, an area of reclaimed land that once played a vital role in port activities. Today, it is home to several attractions, including Shinko Park, Yokohama Cosmo World, Manyo Club hot springs and spa, the Overseas Migration Museum, Yokohama World Porters, and the Red Brick Warehouse shopping centres.
Several bridges connect to Shinko Island, but one of the most interesting is the Kishamichi Promenade. This 500-metre walkway follows the path of a former goods railway line, linking Canal Park, in front of the World Porters building, to an area near the Port Museum, where the tall ship Nippon Maru is now used for sail training. The ship serves as a striking backdrop to the towering Landmark Tower behind it.
Access to Minato Mirai 21 is available via Sakuragicho Station on the JR Line or the Blue Line subway. Alternatively, Minato Mirai Station, located directly beneath Queens Square, provides access via the Minato Mirai Line.
