Andrew and Kathleen

Yokohama-shi

Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan, home to just over three million people. It merges with Tokyo to the northeast, with the entire Kanto region home to over 25 million people.

When we applied for the JET programme, we chose Yokohama since it was close to Tokyo and Mt Fuji; we really wanted Tokyo, but thought that so many people would put this as their first preference that we'd miss out. Although working in Tokyo and commuting from Yokohama was an option, after seeing the rush-hour crowds, it's not feasible if you value your sanity in any way!

There are some incredible pictures of the Yokohama harbour here. More incredible pictures at the Yokohama Port Authority site.

So what's Yokohama famous for? The home of the 2002 World Cup final, the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum (photos), Landmark Tower (the tallest building in Japan, and home to the world's fastest lift at 45kph), allegedly the best Chinatown in Japan (although Chinatown in Sydney and Melbourne beat this one easily).