Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market

About

The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market transforms this historic waterfront landmark into a magical German-style winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and authentic European holiday charm. Families will love the enchanting atmosphere where traditional wooden stalls offer unique gifts, delicious treats, and seasonal crafts against the backdrop of illuminated historic brick buildings. It's one of Japan's most beloved Christmas markets, offering international families a beautiful blend of European holiday traditions with Japanese hospitality and attention to detail.

What to Expect

Families can expect a traditional European-style Christmas market with rows of charming wooden huts selling handcrafted ornaments, toys, seasonal decorations, and international holiday treats. The festive atmosphere includes a large Christmas tree, twinkling illuminations throughout the venue, live musical performances, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and German sausages filling the air. The market is held outdoors in the spacious plaza between the two historic Red Brick Warehouse buildings, creating an authentic Christmas village atmosphere. English-speaking visitors will find some English signage and vendor communication, though Japanese is predominant. The waterfront location offers beautiful views of Yokohama Bay, and the historic brick buildings provide a stunning backdrop for family photos.

Highlights for Kids

• Spectacular Christmas tree and illuminations that create a fairy-tale atmosphere perfect for family photos
• Authentic European treats like warm churros, roasted almonds, hot chocolate, and German gingerbread cookies that kids love to try
• Handcrafted Christmas ornaments and toys from European vendors, including traditional wooden nutcrackers and music boxes
• Live musical performances and occasional Santa appearances that add to the festive excitement
• Waterfront location with beautiful views of Yokohama Bay and the illuminated cityscape creating a memorable backdrop

Pro Tips for Families

1. Visit on a weekday evening if possible to avoid the largest weekend crowds while still experiencing the magical illuminations, which typically begin around 5 PM and create the most enchanting atmosphere
2. Bring cash in Japanese yen as not all vendors accept credit cards, and ATMs may be crowded; having small bills (1000 yen notes and coins) makes purchases easier at the small stalls
3. Download a translation app before arriving as most vendors speak limited English, though pointing and smiling goes a long way, and many items have price tags clearly displayed
4. Layer clothing for your children as temperatures drop significantly in the evening by the waterfront, and consider bringing hand warmers; the outdoor setting means no escape from winter weather, but heated beverage stalls offer warm-up opportunities throughout

Best Time to Visit

Weekday evenings (Tuesday through Thursday) from 5-7 PM offer the best balance of manageable crowds and magical illuminated atmosphere. Early December typically has lighter crowds than the final two weeks before Christmas. If visiting on weekends, arrive right when the market opens (usually 11 AM) for easier stroller navigation and shorter lines, though you'll miss the evening light displays. The illuminations are the main attraction, so evening visits are recommended for families with children old enough to handle the later schedule.

Food & Drinks

The market features numerous food stalls offering German sausages (bratwurst), pretzels, hot dogs, Belgian waffles, churros, crepes, roasted chestnuts, and various sweets that appeal to children. Kid-friendly drinks include hot chocolate, apple cider, and warm fruit punches, while adults can enjoy mulled wine (glühwein) and craft beers. Most items are designed for walking and eating, served in disposable containers. Prices are clearly marked, typically ranging from 500-1000 yen per item. Be aware that some traditional European flavors may be unfamiliar to picky eaters, so having backup snack options is wise. High chairs aren't available, but plenty of standing tables and some bench seating areas exist throughout the market.

Parking & Access

The Red Brick Warehouse is easily accessible via public transportation: take the Minatomirai Line to Bashamichi or Nihon Odori Station (10-minute walk) or JR/Subway to Sakuragicho Station (15-minute walk). Parking is available in nearby lots but fills quickly on weekends and can be expensive (around 500-1000 yen per hour). For international visitors, taking a taxi from major Yokohama hotels is straightforward—just show the address in Japanese to the driver. The market plaza is completely stroller-friendly with flat, paved surfaces, and the outdoor setting means easy access without stairs or narrow corridors. The area is well-lit and clearly marked with signage. Consider using baby carriers in crowded evening hours for easier navigation.