Christmas market, illuminations, and winter gastronomy • Kanagawa (神奈川県)
Christmas Market in 横浜赤レンガ倉庫
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouses Christmas Market
Christmas Market in Yokohama Akarenga Sōko (Christmas Market in 横浜赤レンガ倉庫)
Name in Japanese and English
- Christmas Market in 横浜赤レンガ倉庫 (Christmas Market in Yokohama Akarenga Sōko)
- Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market
Summary
The Christmas Market in Yokohama Akarenga Sōko (Christmas Market in 横浜赤レンガ倉庫) is a large Christmas market held annually in the port district of Yokohama (横浜市, Yokohama-shi), in Kanagawa Prefecture (神奈川県, Kanagawa-ken). Inspired by traditional German markets, it transforms the surroundings of the old red brick warehouses into an illuminated Christmas village.
The event takes place in front of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouses (横浜赤レンガ倉庫, Yokohama Akarenga Sōko), in the Shinkō (新港) area, within the maritime district of Minato Mirai 21 (みなとみらい21). The historic buildings, waterfront, and urban illuminations create a particularly appreciated setting after sunset.
The market was inaugurated in 2010 with the goal of recreating the atmosphere of European Christmas markets in a place closely linked to Yokohama’s international trade history.
The Akarenga Sōko buildings, constructed in the early 20th century for customs and port activities, feature red brick architecture reminiscent of some European industrial buildings. Their transformation into a commercial and cultural space has allowed hosting major seasonal events.
The market gathers wooden chalets called hütte (ヒュッテ), a German term for small cabins. These structures host shops selling Christmas decorations, handicrafts, winter accessories, pastries, and culinary specialties inspired by Europe.
Among the most characteristic products are mulled wine (グリューワイン, gurūwain), German sausages, stews, chocolates, cookies, and Christmas pastries. Menus and vendors are renewed each year.
A large Christmas tree (クリスマスツリー, Kurisumasu Tsurī) traditionally forms the centerpiece of the market. It is surrounded by light installations, festive decorations, and photo areas.
Visitors can discover the illuminations by walking along the alleys lined with chalets, then enjoy the nighttime view of Yokohama Bay. The lights of Minato Mirai, ships, and historic buildings contribute to the site’s atmosphere.
The market also offers souvenir items, including mugs decorated with motifs specific to certain editions. These objects are inspired by the tradition of German Christmas markets where hot drinks are served in collectible mugs.
Since its creation, the event has gradually grown to become one of the most visited Christmas markets in Japan. It holds an important place in Yokohama’s winter tourism calendar.
The market is generally held from the second half of November until December 25. Opening dates, hours, free access zones, and ticketing conditions are determined for each edition.
The site usually includes a main paid area and, depending on the year, free annex spaces. These zones allow enjoying some illuminations and activities without necessarily accessing the entire market.
The Christmas Market in Yokohama Akarenga Sōko thus combines a festive tradition of European origin with Yokohama’s maritime history. It is a popular meeting place for winter walks, family outings, gatherings with friends, and nighttime visits.
Access and landmarks
Location
The market mainly takes place on the event plaza of the Red Brick Warehouses (横浜赤レンガ倉庫イベント広場, Yokohama Akarenga Sōko Ibento Hiroba) and in Akarenga Park (赤レンガパーク, Akarenga Pāku). These spaces are located on the waterfront, near the Shinkō port basin. Depending on the edition, additional installations may be set up in neighboring areas.
Address
〒231-0001 Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama City, Naka Ward, Shinkō 1-1
1-1 Shinkō, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
This address corresponds to the Red Brick Warehouse complex and its event spaces.
Landmark
The two large Red Brick Warehouses (赤レンガ倉庫, Akarenga Sōko) are the main architectural landmarks. The market is also recognizable by its wooden chalets, central Christmas tree, and light installations. Views of the waterfront, the large Ferris wheel Cosmo Clock 21 (コスモクロック21), and Minato Mirai buildings help locate the district.
Access
From Bashamichi Station (馬車道駅, Bashamichi-eki) and Nihon-ōdōri Station (日本大通り駅, Nihon-ōdōri-eki) on the Minatomirai Line (みなとみらい線, Minatomirai-sen), it is about a six-minute walk. From Sakuragichō Station (桜木町駅, Sakuragichō-eki), accessible via JR lines and the municipal subway, it is about a fifteen-minute walk. Kannai Station (関内駅, Kannai-eki) is another option, with a longer walk. Public transportation is recommended during busy periods.
GPS Coordinates
Main landmark: Yokohama Akarenga Sōko, 1-1 Shinkō, Naka-ku, Yokohama. Search for 横浜赤レンガ倉庫 (Yokohama Akarenga Sōko) in a map application. The entrances to the paid zone and access to free areas may vary depending on the annual market layout.
Event program
Market setup. In the weeks before opening, organizers arrange the event plaza and Akarenga Park with wooden chalets, decorations, string lights, and food areas.
The Hütte (ヒュッテ). These small structures inspired by German chalets host shops and food stalls. Their layout creates alleys reminiscent of Central European Christmas markets.
Traditional decorations. The chalets are adorned with fir branches, wreaths, Christmas balls, ribbons, and light installations. Dominant colors usually evoke red, green, gold, and white.
The Christmas tree. A large decorated tree traditionally holds an important place in the market. Its size, species, and decorative theme may vary from year to year.
Lighting ceremony. The official opening usually includes illuminating the tree and installations. The details of this ceremony depend on the annual program.
Nighttime illuminations. Garlands and light elements create a particularly spectacular atmosphere after sunset. Reflections on the red brick buildings enhance the market’s visual identity.
Light tunnel. Some editions offer illuminated passages allowing visitors to walk under decorative arches. These installations are popular photo spots.
Warehouse decor. The old port buildings form the market’s backdrop. Their historic architecture contrasts with contemporary lighting and temporary installations.
Walking among the chalets. Visitors freely stroll the accessible alleys, discover offered products, and stop to taste specialties or buy souvenirs.
Christmas decorations. Shops offer ornaments for trees, handicrafts, figurines, candles, and various accessories inspired by European traditions.
Seasonal souvenirs. Items bearing the market’s colors are sometimes offered. Products and collections change according to the editions.
Collectible mugs. Hot drinks may be served in mugs specially decorated for the market. Their design is a sought-after souvenir for regular visitors.
Glühwein (グリューワイン, gurūwain). Spiced mulled wine is a traditional specialty of German Christmas markets. It is generally prepared with spices and citrus fruits.
Non-alcoholic drinks. Hot drinks such as chocolate, tea, or fruit preparations may be offered to visitors who do not consume alcohol.
German sausages. Several stalls offer grilled sausages, accompanied by bread, potatoes, or garnishes inspired by European cuisine.
Hot dishes. The market allows tasting stews, soups, meat preparations, and other specialties suited to winter temperatures.
Christmas pastries. Depending on vendors, visitors can discover Stollen (シュトレン, shutoren), a German fruitcake, spiced cookies, and various seasonal sweets.
Gingerbread. Specialties inspired by Lebkuchen (レープクーヘン, rēpukūhen) recall German baking traditions of the Advent period.
Chocolates and confectionery. Stalls may offer hot chocolate, sweets, decorated cookies, and gift boxes.
International gastronomy. The offerings are not limited to German cuisine. Original creations and international specialties may complement the menus.
Food areas. Some chalets have spaces where visitors can enjoy their purchases. Depending on the edition, covered or reservable areas are also offered.
Musical entertainment. Concerts, artistic performances, and background music may accompany the market’s days and evenings. Their organization varies according to the program.
Family activities. Some editions offer photo areas, workshops, or activities for children. These events are announced separately by the organizers.
Warehouse shops. The Akarenga Sōko complex also has permanent shops and restaurants. They allow extending the visit beyond the seasonal chalets.
Akarenga Park (赤レンガパーク). This waterfront space offers views of Yokohama port and hosts complementary festive installations depending on the year.
Free areas. Some editions include illumination spaces or annex villages accessible without a ticket for the main zone. Their location and content depend on the program.
Paid areas. Access to the main market may require a ticket. Normal and priority entry categories may be offered, with varying conditions depending on dates.
Busy periods. Weekends, evenings, and days before Christmas are generally the busiest times. Organizers may temporarily limit entry for safety reasons.
Twilight visit. The transition between day and night allows discovering successively the warehouse architecture, chalet decorations, then the illuminations.
Minato Mirai views. The market can be combined with a walk in the maritime district, where buildings, attractions, and light installations compose a vast urban panorama.
Waterfront promenade. Visitors can reach the docks and nearby public spaces to discover Yokohama Bay from different angles.
Local collaborations. The market may partner with hotels, shops, and other Yokohama illumination events to offer complementary experiences.
Weather conditions. The market generally runs even in light rain, but strong winds or other dangerous conditions may cause temporary closure.
Christmas period. The last days before December 25 are often the liveliest of the event. Programming and closing hours are determined each year.
Market closure. After Christmas, chalets and temporary installations are dismantled. The red brick warehouses continue to host their usual shops and cultural activities.
Practical tips
Photos
The large Christmas tree, illuminated chalets, and facades of the Red Brick Warehouses (横浜赤レンガ倉庫, Yokohama Akarenga Sōko) are the main photographic subjects. Arriving before sunset allows preparing shots and then enjoying the illuminations. Viewpoints from the waterfront allow including the Minato Mirai lights. A wide-angle lens is useful for photographing the entire market, while a fast lens facilitates night shots. Respect restrictions regarding tripods and queues.
Weather
November and December are generally cool in Yokohama. The proximity of the bay can increase the feeling of cold, especially in the evening. Bring a warm coat, scarf, gloves, and comfortable shoes. Entrance lines and food areas are sometimes exposed to wind. In case of rain, waterproof clothing is preferable to a large umbrella in the crowd. Weather conditions may affect outdoor activities.
Transport
Bashamichi (馬車道駅) and Nihon-ōdōri (日本大通り駅) stations on the Minatomirai Line are about a six-minute walk away. Sakuragichō Station (桜木町駅) also allows reaching the warehouses in about fifteen minutes. Public transport is recommended, especially on weekends and the last days before Christmas. Neighborhood parking lots can be full and do not guarantee quick access to the market.
Visitor tips
Check the official market website before traveling to know dates, tickets, hours, and possible free zones. Weekday or early-day visits are generally quieter than weekend evenings. To enjoy the illuminations, arriving before nightfall allows seeing the market in several atmospheres. Priority tickets, when available, can reduce waiting at the entrance without eliminating crowds inside. Allow time to also explore the permanent shops in the warehouses.
What to bring
Warm clothing, walking shoes, charged phone, external battery, and payment methods accepted by vendors. Tickets may be sold online depending on the edition. Bring a bag for purchases and fragile decorations. Consumptions and items sold at stalls are generally paid separately from the entrance ticket. It is better to check accepted payment methods rather than rely solely on cash.
History
The development of Yokohama port. The opening of Yokohama to international trade in 1859 gradually transforms the city into one of Japan’s main ports. Port infrastructures develop over the following decades.
The Red Brick Warehouses. The buildings now known as Yokohama Akarenga Sōko (横浜赤レンガ倉庫) were constructed in the early 20th century as part of port modernization.
1911 and 1913: building construction. The two warehouses were completed in these years. They served storage and maritime trade operations.
Western-inspired architecture. The red brick facades and construction techniques reflect the influence of foreign industrial architecture in modern Japan.
The decline of traditional port activities. With the evolution of maritime transport facilities, the warehouses gradually lose their original function.
Site conversion. Yokohama authorities undertake to preserve the buildings and transform them into a cultural, commercial, and tourist space.
2002: reopening of the renovated complex. The warehouses reopen to the public with shops, restaurants, exhibitions, and cultural events.
German inspiration. German Christmas markets serve as a model for organizers, notably for wooden chalets, gastronomic specialties, and luminous atmosphere.
2010: first edition. The first Christmas Market in Yokohama Akarenga Sōko is held in front of the warehouses. The event offers visitors a festive experience inspired by European traditions.
The early years. The market gradually attracts more visitors and expands its product, food, and entertainment offerings.
The role of the Christmas tree. A large decorated tree becomes one of the market’s symbols. Its lighting marks an important moment of the winter season.
The development of chalets. Organizers multiply sales points and favor a scenography evoking German markets.
Collectible souvenirs. Mugs and decorative items specific to different editions help build visitor loyalty.
Waterfront illuminations. The market gradually integrates into major light events organized in Yokohama during winter.
Health adaptations. The COVID-19 pandemic leads to changes in visitor reception, access conditions, and event organization.
2021: resumption with adapted health measures. The market runs from November 26 to December 25, with paid ticketing for some days and flow management measures.
2022: thirty-one day edition. From November 25 to December 25, the market again offers chalets, illuminations, and gastronomic specialties. Some days require paid reservations.
2023: market expansion. From November 24 to December 25, the edition hosts an increased number of shops and food areas. A private lounge offer is introduced.
2024: fifteenth edition. From November 22 to December 25, the market adopts the Memorial theme. It develops collaborations with hotels and brands and introduces priority entry tickets.
2025: sixteenth edition. From November 21 to December 25, the market expands with new spaces and a large natural Christmas tree. Yokohama’s tourism office presents the event as one of the main attractions of the Christmas period.
2026: seventeenth edition. The market is officially announced from November 20 to December 25, lasting thirty-six days. Its theme is Tsunagari (つながり), “connections,” highlighting encounters between visitors, cultures, and communities.
2026: light decorations. The edition plans a large natural tree, an illuminated roof, and a light tunnel. Free complementary zones are also organized near the warehouses.
2026: access evolution. The organizer offers several ticket categories depending on periods, as well as ticket-free areas for the main market.
An essential event. By combining port history, European gastronomy, and Christmas illuminations, the market has become one of Yokohama’s main winter events.
Sources & References
- Yokohama Akarenga Sōko — Official Christmas Market 2026 Website
Dates from November 20 to December 25, 2026, hours, ticketing, theme, illuminations, and space organization.
- Yokohama Official Tourism Office — 2026 Edition
Confirmation of period, general program, illumination spaces, and access conditions.
- The Yokohama Illumination — Christmas Market 2026
Presentation of locations, dates, free zones, and different ticket categories.
- Yokohama Official Visitors Guide — Winter Events 2026-2027
Presentation of the market in the city’s illumination and winter event calendar.
- Kanagawa Official Tourism Office — 2025 Edition
Confirmation of the period from November 21 to December 25, 2025, and presentation of installations.
- Yokohama Official Tourism Office — 2025 Report
Report on the sixteenth edition and presentation of new features.
- Minato Mirai 21 — 2024 Program
Confirmation of the fifteenth edition, dates, and Memorial concept.
- Yokohama Official Tourism Office — 2023 Edition
Dates from November 24 to December 25, 2023, and market space development.
- Yokohama Official Tourism Office — 2022 Edition
Confirmation of the period from November 25 to December 25, 2022, and presentation of gastronomic specialties.
- Yokohama Official Tourism Office — 2021 Edition
Dates from November 26 to December 25, 2021, and access conditions during the health period.
- Yokohama Akarenga Sōko — Official Complex Website
Presentation of historic buildings, permanent shops, and activities organized on site.
Location
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouses Christmas Market
Venue:
Yokohama Aka-renga Sōko (横浜赤レンガ倉庫)
1 Chome-1-1 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001, Japon
Upcoming Schedule
- Nov 20, 2026 - Dec 25, 2026 !
- To be confirmed Nov 20, 2027 - Dec 25, 2027 !
- To be confirmed Nov 25, 2028 - Dec 28, 2028