Yokohama Has a Hidden Gem: The Beautiful Motomachi!

Motomachi is a charming shopping street in Yokohama that has grown from a small seaside village into one of Japan’s most stylish areas. Its mix of old charm and modern fashion makes it one of Yokohama’s most loved spots. Let’s discover it now and explore the must-visit locations around this area!

History of Motomachi

Long ago, Motomachi was a quiet seaside village where people grew crops and caught fish. But when Yokohama Port opened in 1859, everything changed! Soon, many foreigners moved to nearby Yamate and walked through Motomachi every day. The locals made their town shine by opening charming bakeries, cozy cafes, and stylish shops, blending Japanese and Western influences. The whole street began to feel like a happy bridge between two worlds!

As the years passed, Motomachi continued to grow and change, always with a bright and creative spirit. In the 1950s, it became an official shopping street. By the 1970s, Motomachi had become renowned for a distinctive fashion style known as Hama Tora, which made it a trendsetting destination for young people. Today, Motomachi remains a vibrant area filled with cheerful shops for you to explore!

Uchiki Pan

A young man named Hikotaro Uchiki opened the bakery in 1888 after learning his baking secrets from a British baker named Robert Clarke. Hikotaro wanted to make bread that everyone could enjoy, both Japanese people and foreign visitors.

At first, Hikotaro faced many challenges, but he never gave up. He used hops instead of yeast to make the dough soft and chewy, and his bread quickly gained fame for its rich flavor. One of his most popular creations, the “England” bread, is thick, fluffy, and perfect for toast! Locals also adore the sweet apple pie, the nutty walnut bread, and the tasty curry donuts that fill the shop with a wonderful smell every morning.

Uchiki Pan has remained true to its original recipes for over 130 years. It still employs careful baking methods and the finest ingredients, just as in Hikotaro’s time. Every loaf, pastry, and pie is made with love and patience. The bakery even shares the baking times online, so everyone can come to get bread that’s still warm from the oven.

Caravan Coffee Motomachi Shop

The shop feels warm and calm, with the soft smell of coffee. Its simple design with wooden tones makes it even cozier. It’s such a lovely place to take a break after walking around this charming area.

Caravan Coffee has been bringing smiles to coffee lovers for more than 90 years. They source beans from places like Ethiopia, Indonesia, and roast each bean carefully to create a unique cup. You can enjoy rich drip coffee, smooth caramel frozen drinks, and fluffy sandwiches made with eggs, ham, and cucumber.

Are you looking for great snacks from Japan this month? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, drinks, snacks, and sweets directly to your door, allowing you to enjoy the latest Japanese treats straight from Japan.

Motomachi Park

Right between Motomachi’s lively shopping street and the quiet Yamate hills, the park is a tranquil green spot in Yokohama. In the past, it was part of the old foreign settlement and later became a beloved public park where nature and history meet.

The park is filled with tall trees, soft lawns, and pretty flowers that change with the seasons. It’s also an excellent spot for picnics, strolls, or just lying on the grass to watch the clouds. One of the park’s highlights is its old clock tower, which gives a nostalgic charm to the peaceful scenery. From here, you can enjoy a gentle breeze and views of both the sea and the town below!

Kitamura Main Store

Kitamura, founded in 1882, is a famous bag and accessory shop in Yokohama. The store was founded by a passionate entrepreneur who sought to create stylish and practical bags for women. Over the years, it has evolved into a landmark for fashion enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of bags, wallets, gloves, and other accessories for every season.

Kitamura is famous for its bright colors, simple yet charming designs, and high-quality materials. Visitors love exploring the main store, where formal and casual bags sit side by side. The second floor even features luxurious crocodile leather bags. Unique collections, including the pancake motif handbag or the House series, showcase playful designs with fine details.

Motomachi Itsukushima Shrine

A small shrine honors four beautiful goddesses: Ichikishimahime, Takiribime, Tagitsuhime, and Konohanasakuya. People believe they bless love, success, and business. About 700 years ago, worshipers first prayed to these gods on a small island called Susuijima. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), officials moved the shrine to Motomachi, where it became the town’s guardian.

Throughout history, the shrine faced many challenges. The Great Kanto Earthquake and World War II damaged it, but locals from Motomachi rebuilt it each time with love and care. In 1958, they rebuilt it with strong concrete, and it still stands proudly today.

This is a peaceful place surrounded by the gentle sounds of nature. A small spring flows quietly behind the shrine, and visitors often stop to rest and feel refreshed. Nearby, a tiny park adds a touch of green calm to the lively shopping street just steps away.

Why should I visit Motomachi in Yokohama?

You should explore this lovely street in Yokohama, as it wonderfully blends history, culture, and creativity. From cozy bakeries and coffee shops to elegant fashion stores and peaceful parks, every corner has its own story to tell! Walking through Motomachi feels like stepping into a place where the old and new quietly come together. So, what would you love to discover most when visiting Motomachi? Let me know in the comments!