Japan Travelogue Series: Minato Mirai 21
Minato Mirai 21 (みなとみらい21, Minato Mirai Nijūichi) in Yokohama, is an ideal location to satisfy any activity you have in mind. The district hosts a number of events throughout the year including concerts, evening illuminations, and cultural exhibits. There’s something for everyone all in one spot!
The Minato Mirai 21 district is the central business district of Yokohama, the second most populous city of Japan. Yokohama is situated on Tokyo Bay and is the major economic, cultural, and commercial hub of the Greater Tokyo Area. Minato Mirai 21 or MM was initially developed in the 1980’s and was designed as a large master-planned development and new urban center. It was to connect Yokohama’s culturally significant areas and commercial centers of Kannai and the Yokohama Station area.
Cultural activities to enjoy
Minato Mirai 21 has big open spaces to take leisurely walks or even bike rides. Numerous restaurants and cafes dot the area and at the heart of MM lies the Pacifico Yokohama convention center and the spacious waterfront greenery at Rinko Park. Cultural and historical activities can include visits to the Yokohama Museum of Art, the Yokohama Noh Theater, the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum, or the Kanagawa Arts Theatre.
The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouses or Akarenga is another historical sight to see in the Minato Mirai area. It was introduced during the Meiji era when Japan opened its market to the rest of the world. Yokohama became the main port where trade flowed to the Tokyo area. The well-preserved red brick buildings served as the clearance point to control the influx of goods through the port. Other sites include the Sakuragicho area, the birthplace of Japan’s world-famous railroads and the former training vessel now a museum, the Nippon Maru.
Join Michelle as she takes us around Minato Mirai!