Choyomon Gate and Chinatown, Yokohama (must see)

Yokohama Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in Japan. The area has about 250 shops and restaurants that cater mainly to tourists who want to see the historic neighborhood.

Yokohama Chinatown can trace its roots to 1859 with the opening of the seaport. Ferry services from Shanghai and Hong Kong to Yokohama brought many Chinese immigrants. They soon established a school, a community center, shops, and restaurants.

Issues that hampered Chinatown's growth began almost as soon as Chinese immigrants arrived. Laws in Yokohama prevented Chinese citizens from performing certain types of work. The Great Kanto Earthquake caused massive death and destruction. Perhaps the biggest obstacle to Chinatown's growth was World War II.

Things began turning around after the end of the war. The goodwill gate was built in 1955. Chinatown became officially recognized for the first time, given the name Yokohama Chinatown or, in Japanese, Yokohama Chukagai.

Tourism became very important to Chinatown in the late 20th century. Once Japan established diplomatic relations with China, sightseeing in Yokohama Chinatown became a popular pastime. It also became a primary destination for those visiting Yokohama.

There are more than 150 Chinese restaurants in Yokohama Chinatown. They serve cuisine from the many regions of China as well as Taiwan. There are also medicinal cafes and buffets.

Tourists can browse dozens of shops and entertainment venues. Among these are arcades, photography studios, karaoke bars and much more. There are even spots where tourists can learn how to make dim sum, paper lanterns, and other traditional Chinese crafts.