KOSE Shin Yokohama Skate Center

KOSE Shin Yokohama Skate Center offers families a fun indoor ice skating experience in the heart of Yokohama, perfect for escaping Japan's humid summers or rainy days. With beginner lessons, full equipment rentals, and dedicated family sessions, it's an ideal spot for kids to try skating for the first time or practice their skills in a safe, welcoming environment.

• ✓Full equipment rental including skates in all sizes, even for toddlers
• ✓Beginner-friendly skating aids available for young children learning to balance
• ✓Climate-controlled indoor facility perfect for year-round skating
• ✓Affordable pricing compared to many international skating rinks
• ✓Family sessions designed specifically for parents with children

1. 1.Arrive early during your chosen session as rental skate sizes go quickly, especially during weekend and holiday periods.
2. 2.Bring or wear thick socks and gloves (required for skating). You can purchase these at the rink if needed, but bringing your own saves money.
3. 3.The rink offers skating aids (penguin-shaped helpers) for young beginners. Request these at the rental counter, but note they're available on a first-come basis.
4. 4.Limited English is spoken, so download a translation app or learn basic Japanese phrases like 'rental' (rentaru) and skate sizes for smoother communication.
5. 5.Note that Saturday is closed for maintenance, so plan your visit for Sunday (best for families with longer hours) or weekday afternoons.

Sunday mornings (10:30 AM opening) are ideal for families, offering the longest session and typically fewer crowds than afternoon slots. Weekday afternoons are quieter but have shorter hours (2:30-5:30 PM), making Sunday the best overall choice for international visitors maximizing their itinerary.

Admission and skate rental are budget-friendly (under $10 per person typically). The rink is located on the 2nd floor of the Shin Yokohama complex, about 10 minutes by train from central Yokohama. Limited English signage, so allow extra time for navigation.

As an indoor facility, the rink operates year-round regardless of weather. However, check their website or call ahead during Japanese national holidays (Golden Week in early May, Obon in August, New Year period) as hours may vary or special events may be scheduled.

Shin Yokohama Station (5 minutes walk) has a ramen museum and food court with kid-friendly options including udon, tempura, and conveyor belt sushi. For a quick bite, the station area also features family restaurants like Jonathan's and Gusto with English picture menus and children's meals.