The fun starts on the way to Yokohama
This time, we visited the "Yokohama Nanbu Market," a specialized food complex, with the Haranishi family.
From the city center, it’s about an hour and a half drive along the Daiichi Keihin. It’s a comfortable distance, with a refreshing view of the sea from the Yokohama Bay Bridge right before you arrive. Just seeing the ocean around the Bay Bridge makes it feel like a little getaway, even if you’re just heading to Yokohama, which really boosts your mood.
The fact that "the travel itself is fun" despite the short trip might be something unique to the local character of Yokohama.
A lineup of specialty shops! Shopping like a treasure hunt
Stepping into the market, you’re greeted by a scene completely different from your average supermarket.
With everything from fresh fish and butcher shops to dry goods and wholesale snacks, the market is packed with food specialists, offering a level of surprise and freshness you don't get at your local grocery store. Even if you're just "buying ingredients," the act of choosing is fun here. Every shop has its own personality and focus, making it feel a bit like a treasure hunt.
It’s also a unique market experience to chat with the professional shop owners, who might say things like, "This is our recommendation today!" or "You might find this interesting, too."
Outside, the premises feature a grassy square and restaurants, making it perfect for spending a relaxed time with your family. It’s also an atmosphere that seems great for a date or a trip with friends.
A car is definitely the most convenient way to visit the market!
One of the best things about driving is that you don't have to worry about the weight of your groceries on the way home. (And many of these places are far from the train station!) You can toss anything that catches your eye into your basket without hesitation.
Yokohama Nanbu Market has a spacious, accessible parking lot, making it an excellent "market destination for families." Even a weekend trip nearby can feel truly special, leading to conversations like, "We should try visiting another market in the countryside next time."
Yokohama is a place where you can enjoy an extraordinary market experience while still being easily accessible from the city center. Why not head to the Yokohama Nanbu Market and decide what to have for dinner tonight?
And for those of you who prefer cashless, don't forget your cash!
text: Hiromichi Honda
