Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a historic complex located in Shinko 1-chome, Naka Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Built by the Meiji government as bonded warehouses for the new Shinko Pier at Yokohama Customs, the buildings are important reminders of the modernization of Yokohama Port. Warehouse No. 2 was completed in 1911, followed by Warehouse No. 1 in 1913.
Today, the two buildings have been transformed into cultural and commercial facilities. Warehouse No. 1 is used as a cultural venue, with exhibition spaces and a hall, while Warehouse No. 2 houses approximately 40 shops and restaurants. The surrounding area has been developed as Red Brick Park, with open spaces and landscaped areas. The warehouses are illuminated at night, creating one of Yokohama’s most recognizable waterfront scenes.
Yokohama Port opened to international trade in 1859. As international commerce expanded, the development of modern port facilities became an urgent priority. The Meiji government therefore undertook the construction of Shinko Pier, and the Red Brick Warehouses were built as part of this major port-development project.
The warehouses incorporated advanced construction technology of their time, combining iron and brick. Their structure was designed to meet the needs of a modern port, and the buildings remain valuable examples of Japan’s industrial and architectural history.
The Great Kanto Earthquake caused severe damage to Warehouse No. 1, which was subsequently reconstructed into its present form. Warehouse No. 2, however, had been reinforced with brick and iron, allowing it to limit the damage it suffered during the disaster.
In later years, the distinctive buildings became popular locations for television dramas and films. Their historic brick walls and waterfront setting have made them familiar images of Yokohama in Japanese popular culture.
The Red Brick Warehouses have received several awards and heritage designations in recognition of their architectural and historical value.
In 2004, the complex received the 45th BCS Award, which recognizes outstanding construction projects. In 2007, it was designated a Heritage of Industrial Modernization by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. In 2010, it also received an Award of Excellence in the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
These honors recognize the importance of preserving the buildings as part of Yokohama’s industrial history while giving them a new role as a cultural and commercial destination.
The Red Brick Warehouses ended their role as bonded warehouses in 1989. After that, Yokohama City developed the buildings and surrounding waterfront as a tourism and cultural resource.
On April 12, 2002, the area reopened as Yokohama Red Brick Park, a complex incorporating exhibition spaces, a hall, shops, restaurants, and an open event plaza. The two historic warehouses were given different roles: No. 1 as a cultural facility and No. 2 as a commercial facility.
Warehouse No. 1 is used for exhibitions and cultural events. The first floor includes displays of building materials and architectural features, including roof tiles. On the second floor are three exhibition rooms, while the third floor contains a hall with seating for approximately 400 people.
The building provides a venue for a range of cultural activities and events, allowing visitors to enjoy art and performances in a historic setting.
Warehouse No. 2 is a commercial facility with more than 40 shops and restaurants. Visitors can browse a wide selection of goods, including products associated with Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and items that make distinctive souvenirs.
The restaurants and cafés offer opportunities to take a break during a visit to the waterfront. The combination of shopping, dining, and historic architecture makes this building a lively destination throughout the day.
An open plaza lies between Warehouse No. 1 and Warehouse No. 2. It is used for a variety of seasonal events and large-scale gatherings throughout the year.
Popular events include the Yokohama Oktoberfest and Art Rink in Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. The Oktoberfest brings a festive atmosphere to the waterfront, while Art Rink combines ice skating with artistic installations and visual displays. The plaza’s open layout makes it an ideal venue for events that attract both local residents and visitors.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse hosts numerous events throughout the year, ranging from food and seasonal celebrations to art and entertainment programs. The Yokohama Oktoberfest and Art Rink are among its best-known events, drawing visitors to the waterfront for distinctive seasonal experiences.
The historic buildings have also appeared frequently in television dramas and films. Their brick façades, spacious interiors, and location beside the harbor provide a recognizable backdrop that reflects Yokohama’s blend of history and modern urban life.
The area around Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is home to many other popular attractions. Nearby destinations include Minato Mirai 21, Zou-no-hana Park, MARINE & WALK YOKOHAMA, Yokohama Hammerhead, Yokohama Landmark Tower, Yamashita Park, Yokohama Marine Tower, and Yokohama Chinatown.
These nearby attractions make the Red Brick Warehouses a convenient stop when exploring Yokohama’s waterfront. Visitors can combine a visit to the historic buildings with a walk through the modern Minato Mirai district, a trip to the nearby parks, or a meal in Chinatown.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse brings together the history of Japan’s modernization, distinctive brick architecture, cultural activities, shopping, and dining. Once an important part of the port’s logistics infrastructure, the buildings have been given a new life as a lively public destination.
Visitors can explore the cultural exhibitions in Warehouse No. 1, browse shops and restaurants in Warehouse No. 2, and enjoy seasonal events in the plaza between them. With its historic appearance and open waterfront setting, the complex offers a memorable way to experience the character of Yokohama.
15 minutes on foot from Sakuragicho Station *via Kishamichi
15 minutes on foot from Kannai Station
6 minutes on foot from Bashamichi Station
6 minutes on foot from Nihon-odori Station
12 minutes on foot from Minatomirai Station