Cosmo Clock 21

Cosmo Clock 21 is a majestic Ferris wheel that has become the main symbol of Yokohama's seaside district in Japan. Located near Tokyo, this attraction in Yokohama Cosmo World park draws travelers with its grand scale and unique design.

The centerpiece of the structure is a giant digital clock by Citizen, located right at the hub. Thanks to this, Cosmo Clock 21 was entered into the Guinness World Records as the largest clock in the world. Standing 112.5 meters tall with a diameter of 100 meters, it is a prominent architectural landmark of the entire bay.

On clear days, the highest viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of not only the Minato Mirai skyscrapers and the Bay Bridge but also the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji. In the evening, the wheel transforms into a true art object, shimmering with all the colors of the rainbow thanks to its modern LED lighting system.

When planning your visit to Cosmo Clock 21, we recommend checking the current park operating schedule in advance. While the attraction generally follows a regular schedule, weather conditions or scheduled maintenance may lead to adjustments in the timetable.

Below are the official contact details to help you clarify information and easily find this icon of Japan on the map of the coastal district.

The main highlight of Cosmo Clock 21 is the 15-minute journey in one of its 60 gondolas, each holding up to 8 people. As you soar to a bird's-eye view, you’ll see the panorama of Tokyo Bay unfolding before you. For thrill-seekers, there are special see-through gondolas that provide a 360-degree view, creating the illusion of floating in mid-air.

Inside the cabins, touchscreens display information about the sights visible at that moment, making the ride both spectacular and educational. If you are looking for romance, choose the evening hours: when the city lights up and the wheel itself begins to shimmer in vibrant colors, reflecting in the bay's waters.

After descending, be sure to linger in the amusement park. Here, you can test your nerves on roller coasters, visit a mysterious haunted house, or even explore an ice world at -30°C. Park entry is free, and ride tickets can be purchased individually based on your preferences.

Cosmo Clock 21 is located at: 2 Chome-8-1 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. Getting here from central Tokyo is easy: a train ride on the JR line to Yokohama Station takes about 30 minutes, followed by a transfer to the Minatomirai Subway Line.

The closest station to the attraction is Minatomirai Station (Exit 3), from where you can walk to the amusement park entrance in just 3 minutes. Another popular route is a walk from Sakuragicho Station: the path takes about 10 minutes and passes along a picturesque waterfront with views of the bay.

If you are already in the Minato Mirai area, you can easily find the wheel on foot by looking for the famous Yokohama Landmark Tower. For those who prefer comfort, taxi services are always available at the entrance to Yokohama Cosmo World.

The history of Cosmo Clock 21 began on March 25, 1989, when it was officially opened for the major Yokohama Exotic Showcase (YES'89). At the time, the wheel stood 107.5 meters tall and held the title of the tallest Ferris wheel on the planet for several years.

In the late 90s, the structure underwent significant changes. Due to coastal redevelopment, the attraction was reconstructed and moved to its current location in Cosmo World. During the relocation, the base of the wheel was enlarged, increasing its total height to 112.5 meters and making its silhouette even more impressive against the skyline.

The name of the attraction symbolizes its focus on the 21st century, while the giant clock built into it is a tribute to Japan's technological progress. In 2016, the lighting system was completely updated: modern LED panels now allow for incredible light shows, turning the wheel into the city’s primary nighttime landmark.

To complete one full rotation on Cosmo Clock 21, you should budget about 30–45 minutes in your schedule. The ride itself takes exactly 15 minutes, but queues for boarding are possible on weekends and in the evenings, especially for the popular cabins with a fully transparent floor.

If you plan to combine your flight over the bay with other attractions at Cosmo World or a stroll along the promenade, it’s best to set aside at least 2–4 hours. This will give you enough time to enjoy the views, take panoramic photos, and explore the district's futuristic architecture without rushing.

The Cosmo Clock 21 attraction is typically open to visitors from 11:00 to 20:00. This is plenty of time to catch both the daytime views of Mount Fuji and the spectacular evening illumination that turns on at dusk.

Please note that the Ferris wheel is closed for maintenance on Thursdays (except on public holidays). We recommend checking the current operating status on the official park website before your visit, as strong winds or other weather conditions may temporarily restrict ride access.

The Minato Mirai district, where the Ferris wheel is located, is a hub of iconic locations that perfectly complement your visit. Nearby, the majestic sailing ship Nippon Maru is moored, hosting a fascinating maritime museum on board.

For those who want to see the city from an even greater height, the Yokohama Landmark Tower, offering one of the best observation decks in the country, is just a few minutes' walk away. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to experience the unique contrast between maritime traditions and the futuristic architecture of modern Japan.