Photos by Takahiro Takiguchi ()
As we continue through the long, steamy and gloomy rain season, it’s good to take advantage of the dry days to go on an adventure. According to the Japan Metorological Agency, the Kanto Plain only averages about 12 rainy days in June, so there’s plenty of time to get out even in this wet weather.
Hop on a train or get behind the wheel for a short trip to Yokohama Chukagai, Japan’s largest Chinatown, where you’ll be treated to a district busy with shops and street food.
Chukagai boasts over 600 Chinese restaurants and shops packed into its 50-acre area. According to Yokohama City, 20 million people visit this busy area for a taste of China every year.
When you enter through a decorative, colorful traditional Chinese gate, you will see thousands of tourists walking along the streets lined with businesses decorated with bright facades, gold dragons and red lanterns.
This area was established when Yokohama Port opened to trade with foreign countries back in 1859. During that time Chinese traders arrived in the district and the Chinese community started to grow and thrive to its modern glory.
As you stroll the 160-year-old town, you’ll find 10 decorative traditional Chinese-style gates constructed following the rules of feng shui. There are also two temples to visit in Chukagai for luck in business ventures: Kantei and Masao Mausoleums. Both are known as power spots for business and success.
Make sure to stop for a xiao long bao, steamed soup dumpling, which makes a great snack. The rich flavor of the meat paired with the crispy bun is great pairing with Chintao Beer.
The district with its vibrant décor, good feng shui and delectable dishes makes it the perfect place to drive away the rainy season blues!
Yokohama Chinatown URL
Mausoleum
