The Bay Times

Strolling down Kaigandori from Nihon Odori, the imposing sight of sixteen classical Corinthian columns commands the waterfront vista. The historic Yokohama Yusen Building, a landmark of Showa-era neoclassical architecture, is stepping into an inspiring new chapter with its conversion into 'The Maritime Hotel Yokohama Bay,' scheduled to open in early 2027. While preserving its majestic stonework and historical facade, the interior is being reimagined to evoke the legendary maritime routes that once connected Yokohama to distant world ports.

Originally constructed as an operational hub for Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK Line), the site played a pivotal role in training sea crews and chefs, laying the cornerstone of modern Japanese luxury ocean liner culture. Rather than remaining an untouchable monument, the building will reopen as a vibrant social salon where visitors and locals cross paths. Walking along its colonnade, one can still sense the noble aspirations and cosmopolitan dreams of travelers who embarked upon uncharted voyages from this very shore.

A heartwarming crowdfunding initiative has been launched to craft high-quality folding umbrellas inspired by the iconic 'Tamakusu' Machilus tree, which graces the courtyard of the Yokohama Archives of History. The umbrella's canopy artfully reproduces the gentle daylight filtering through lush green leaves, offering users the comforting sensation of taking shelter under the centuries-old boughs of Yokohama's most storied living witness whenever autumn rains fall.

Curators created this project to weave the city's living heritage into modern everyday life, ensuring that historical awareness is not confined to display cases. Proceeds from the campaign and subsequent sales will directly fund ongoing arboricultural care and courtyard preservation, forging an active civic bond between residents and their urban heritage. It promises to become an endearing companion for rainy strolls along the seaside boulevard.

Stepping off the train at Namamugi Station on the Keikyu Line, the rich, sweet fragrance of boiling wort drifts gently through the salty coastal air. The Kirin Brewery Yokohama Plant, among Japan's leading beer-making facilities, marks its centennial anniversary since relocating to Namamugi. To celebrate this milestone, the facility unveiled a comprehensively refreshed tour including the 'Kirin History Walk,' inviting guests to retrace the passionate craftsmanship that nurtured Japan's beer culture.

Overlooking massive copper and stainless brewing kettles and witness to state-of-the-art bottling lines whirring with surgical precision, visitors experience the pinnacle of industrial artisanship. At the tour's finale, a glass of freshly tapped Ichiban Shibori with velvety foam provides a delightful taste of this industrial heritage. Paired with a wander through the nearby Namamugi Fish Market street, the journey reveals an authentic neighborhood brimming with working-class hospitality.

Just beyond the cherry-lined banks of the Ooka River near Koganecho Station, a warm blue and silver neon marquee lights up the colorful streetscape of Wakabacho. Cinema Jack & Betty, a storied two-screen indie theater, has been ranked 90th in Time Out's prestigious '100 Best Cinemas in the World.' The global accolade celebrates not only its daring, eclectic film curation, but also the nostalgic communal warmth deeply rooted in its multicultural neighborhood.

Ever since general manager Toshiyuki Kajiwara left corporate life to rescue the theater from permanent closure, it has stood as a welcoming haven for independent world cinema and emerging domestic filmmakers. Stepping out into the evening mist after a screening, neon reflections shimmer upon the river as laughter spills from nearby neighborhood bistros. This intimate cinematic immersion is the quintessential charm of Yokohama's classic lower town.