Yokohama Landmark Tower

The Landmark Tower (Yokohama Landmark Tower) is not just a skyscraper, but a true symbol of Yokohama and one of the most recognizable high-rises in all of Japan. Located in the modern Minato Mirai 21 district, it serves as the central building of this part of the city, and its name perfectly justifies its role as a landmark.

This monumental structure stands 296.3 meters tall and features 73 floors above ground and 3 underground levels. Upon its completion in 1993, the Landmark Tower became the tallest building in the country. Until 2003, it also held the title of the tallest structure in the world built on an island. Today, it remains one of the tallest buildings in Japan, with its majestic silhouette visible even from Tokyo.

For travelers, the main draw is the "Sky Garden" observation deck, located on the 69th floor at a height of 273 meters. You can reach it via one of the fastest elevators in Japan, which whisks visitors to the top in just 40 seconds — an adventure in itself. From a bird's-eye view, you get breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the city, the port, and the bay, and on clear days, sacred Mount Fuji can be seen on the horizon.

To plan your visit to the "Sky Garden" observation deck, check current operating hours, ticket prices, and other information, it is recommended to refer to the tower's official sources. All the necessary contact details are provided below.

The main reason visitors flock to the Landmark Tower is, without a doubt, the "Sky Garden" observation deck. Located on the 69th floor at a dizzying height of 273 meters, it is the highest observation deck in Japan. From here, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree panoramic view. On a clear day, you can see the futuristic Minato Mirai district in detail, the famous "Cosmo Clock 21" Ferris wheel, Tokyo Bay, and even majestic Mount Fuji on the horizon. An evening visit will provide unforgettable memories of the city glowing with millions of lights.

The journey to the observation deck is an adventure in itself. Visitors are carried to the top by some of the world's fastest elevators, capable of reaching speeds of up to 45 km/h. The ascent from the 1st to the 70th floor takes only about 40 seconds, almost instantly transporting you from the busy lobby to breathtaking bird's-eye views. The observation deck itself features a bar where you can relax and enjoy drinks while contemplating the city skyline.

Beyond the observation deck, the Landmark Tower offers plenty of other activities. The lower floors house the large Landmark Plaza shopping mall with numerous shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores. There is also a huge selection of cafes and restaurants for every taste, where you can try both Japanese and international cuisine. Additionally, the building houses a luxury five-star hotel occupying floors 49 to 70, as well as offices and clinics, making the tower a true "city within a city".

Getting to the Landmark Tower is easy thanks to its excellent location in the modern Minato Mirai 21 district. It is one of the most accessible tourist sites in Yokohama, easily reachable by public transport from anywhere in the city and even from neighboring metropolises.

The most convenient way is to use the Minato Mirai Subway Line, which directly connects the district with the city center and has a station of the same name within a few minutes' walk of the tower. If you are traveling from Tokyo or other cities in the region, the JR or Tokyu rail lines are your best bet. They provide fast and comfortable connections to Yokohama, making it easy to plan a day trip to the skyscraper.

Upon arriving at Yokohama's main railway station, you can choose between two options. The first is a pleasant 15–20 minute walk, allowing you to enjoy the views of the futuristic Minato Mirai district. The second option is to take one of the local buses that run regularly through the area and will drop you off right at the foot of the tower.

The history of the Landmark Tower began on March 20, 1990, when its foundation was laid. The construction of this grand project was completed in 1993, and the official opening to the public took place on July 16 of that same year. Behind the impressive design were the architectural firms Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei and Hugh Stubbins and Associates, under the direction of architect Hugh Stubbins. The cost of building this symbol of a new era for the city amounted to a staggering 270 billion Japanese yen.

From its completion in 1993 for over two decades until 2014, the Landmark Tower proudly held the title of the tallest building in Japan. It took over this status from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, becoming a new benchmark for high-rise construction in the country. It was only with the appearance of the Abeno Harukas skyscraper in Osaka that the tower relinquished its top spot, but it remains forever in history as one of the pioneers of modern Japanese architecture.

The name "Landmark" was not chosen by chance. The tower was designed as the central element and symbol of the thriving Minato Mirai 21 district, visible from afar. This iconic Yokohama landmark is owned by Mitsubishi Estate Co., one of Japan's largest developers. Hugh Stubbins' project did more than just create another skyscraper; it gave the city a true landmark that defined its modern appearance.

When planning a visit to the Landmark Tower, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 3 hours. This will be enough time to take the high-speed elevator up to the "Sky Garden" observation deck without rushing, enjoy panoramic views of Yokohama, and take some impressive photos. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji from the 69th floor.

The duration of your visit may vary depending on your interests. If you are short on time, one hour is enough for a quick look at the panorama. However, if you also plan to visit the shops in the Landmark Plaza mall at the base of the tower or dine at one of the many restaurants, you should allow extra time. Evening visits are especially popular, as they allow you to see the city shining with millions of lights.

Keep in mind that the indicated time refers only to the skyscraper itself. The tower is the centerpiece of the futuristic Minato Mirai district, which is rich in other attractions. If you want to walk around the area, visit the amusement park, or the famous Red Brick Warehouses, you will need several more hours.

The "Sky Garden" observation deck at the Landmark Tower is open to visitors year-round. Standard operating hours are from 10:00 to 21:00, with last entry at 20:30. On Saturdays and certain holidays, hours may be extended until 22:00, with last entry at 21:30. However, please note that special hours may apply during national holiday periods such as New Year or Golden Week, as well as during the summer season.

While advance ticket booking is usually not mandatory, it can be done online, which sometimes offers a discount. During peak periods, last entry times may be subject to change, so it is highly recommended to check current information on the tower's official website before your visit. This will help avoid surprises and allow you to plan your visit in the best way possible, especially if you want to admire the sunset or the night views of Yokohama.

Visiting the Landmark Tower is just the starting point for exploring the vibrant city of Yokohama. A stroll through its surroundings will help you dive deeper into the unique atmosphere of modern Japan and enrich your journey with new experiences. The Minato Mirai district, where the skyscraper is located, and its adjacent areas offer many interesting places — from picturesque parks and museums to world-class restaurants and entertainment complexes.

To help you plan your onward route, we have compiled a list of nearby attractions. They are all at various distances from the tower, allowing you to choose what suits you best — whether it's a short walk or a quick ride.