Yokohama is a major Japanese city, second only to Tokyo in size.
It is surprising that one of the country’s largest and most important cities was originally a tiny fishing village with a population of just 600 people.
The city attracts crowds of foreign tourists annually who wish to experience Japanese culture.
1. Over three and a half million people live in Yokohama.
2. Yokohama is located just 30-40 kilometers from the capital. Thus, people can reach Yokohama from Tokyo by train in less than half an hour.
3. In 1923, a devastating earthquake occurred, after which the city had to be almost entirely rebuilt. It is estimated that 30,000 people died during the disaster and nearly 48,000 were injured.
4. In 1993, Yokohama saw the construction of a building that was considered the tallest in Japan at the time.
5. The average winter temperature in Yokohama is 5.5 degrees Celsius, and the summer temperature can reach up to 25 degrees.
6. In 1945, the city was severely damaged by American air raids. About 8,000 people died and 42% of the city area was destroyed.
7. In 1989, the city celebrated its centenary.
8. Yokohama is home to the largest Chinatown in East Asia, featuring about 500 Chinese restaurants.
9. Historically, Yokohama became the main trading port for Europeans.
10. Approximately 80,000 foreigners live in Yokohama.
