Hey Lykkers. If you're headed to Japan and want to explore beyond Tokyo, Yokohama is your perfect side trip. It's coastal, vibrant, and full of charm—but we know your time might be limited. So instead of rushing through a long checklist, let's slow it down and really enjoy two of Yokohama's best.

Here's your go-to guide to Sankeien Garden and the Cup Noodles Museum—two very different but equally unforgettable places.

🌿 Sankeien Garden – A Slice of Old Japan

If you only have time for one peaceful, picture-perfect place in Yokohama, make it this.

Sankeien is a large traditional Japanese garden built in 1906 by silk merchant Hara Sankei. It covers 175,000 square meters (that's about 25 football fields!), with ponds, winding paths, seasonal flowers, and 17 historic buildings, some over 400 years old.

You'll see tea houses, samurai residences, and even a Kyoto-style pagoda—all moved here for preservation. Whether it's cherry blossoms in April or red maple leaves in November, every visit feels like stepping into a different season and story.

- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)

- Admission: ¥700 for adults / ¥200 for kids

- How to get there?: From Yokohama Station, take Bus #8 or #148 (about 30 minutes)

Pro Tips:

- Go early in the morning for quiet, crowd-free views

- Bring a picnic or enjoy matcha at the teahouse inside

- Visit in spring or fall for the best seasonal beauty

🍜 Cup Noodles Museum – A Delicious Dose of Creativity

This place is fun, interactive, and surprisingly inspiring. Located in the Minato Mirai area, the Cup Noodles Museum is dedicated to Momofuku Ando, who invented the world's first instant noodles in 1958. It's a mix of history, art, and food fun!

You'll learn how instant noodles changed the world, see quirky exhibits (like a wall of noodle packages from different decades), and even make your own cup noodles with your favorite soup and toppings.

- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). Closed on Tuesdays

- Admission: ¥500 for adults / Free for high schoolers and younger

- My Cup Noodles Factory: Extra ¥500 (totally worth it!)

- How to get there?: 10-minute walk from Minato Mirai Station (Minatomirai Line)

Pro Tips:

- Book a slot for the Cup Noodles Factory in advance—it gets busy!

- Great for families or anyone who wants to feel like a kid again

- There's also a rooftop playground with a great view of Yokohama Bay

Ready to Explore?

We get it—travel time is precious. That's why these two places stand out: one for its quiet, natural beauty and cultural depth, the other for its fun, flavor, and creativity. Both are uniquely Yokohama and will give you unforgettable memories without rushing through a dozen sites.

So, Lykkers, which one are you visiting first—zen gardens or custom cup noodles? Or both?

Let us know if you want more travel tips for Japan!