Quick and easy things to do in Yokohama #2

In 1858, Yokohama became the first Japanese port to open its doors to international trade. In time, it became the industrial bosom of Japan. Then, in the 1960s, the city decided to transform itself - yet again - from an industrial center to an international hub to rival Tokyo. The Yokohama Landmark Tower, completed in 1993, was one of the first marvelous achievements of this daring plan.

At 296.3 meters high, Landmark Tower is now the second tallest building and fourth tallest structure in Japan. It has one of the highest observation decks in Japan. Until 2004, when the Taipei 101 was built, Landmark Tower was the (original) tallest building on an island in the world.

It contains a five-star hotel which occupies floors 49-70, 603 rooms in total. The lower 48 floors contain shops, restaurants, clinics, and offices.

On the 69th floor there is an observatory, Sky Garden, from which one can see a 360-degree view of the city, and on clear days Mount Fuji. The tower contains the world's 2nd fastest elevators, but was also originally the world's fastest.

The Sky Garden Observatory is a great place to get a unique look at Japan or take a date. But there's also plenty to do in and around the tower, too. Pokemon World, Yokohama Hard Rock Cafe, Cosmo World (amusement park), and the Pacifico Convention Center are all within short walking distance of the tower.

Check it out if you haven't already. And if you have, go back to see what's changed!

Closest Stations:
6 minutes from Minato Mirai Line, Minato Mirai Station
8 minutes from JR Negishi Line, Sakuragicho Station
9 minutes from Minato Mirai Line, Bashamichi Station

Observatory Hours: 10:00 to 21:00 (22:00 on Saturdays)

Official Website:
http://www.yokohama-landmark.jp/web/english/

Observation Deck Admission: 1000 yen