Hello, this is Minato & Mirai♪
As November begins, autumn foliage is gradually arriving from the north. In Yokohama’s Minato Mirai area, the leaves usually turn color a bit later, around late November.
But this one is simply unmissable! We want to share this breathtaking view a little early with you.
We’re talking about the Ginkgo Avenue along Yamashita Park Street in Yokohama!
It’s absolutely stunning—golden light fills the street as the sea breeze blows through the trees. At its heart stands the iconic Hotel New Grand, a classic landmark of Yokohama. The moment this street glows in gold is truly our “favorite season in Yokohama.” It’s so beautiful, it takes your breath away.
I honestly think this is the most beautiful season in all of Yokohama!
We’d love for you to experience this moment too. So here are some photos we took last year to share that golden beauty with you♪
- Golden Ginkgo Avenue Lighting Up Yamashita Park Street
- Scenic Spot ①: The Golden Tunnel in Front of Hotel New Grand
- Scenic Spot ②: View from the 2nd Floor of Hotel New Grand Main Building
- Best Photo Spots and Times
- The Most Beautiful Moment of Yokohama’s Autumn
- Access: How to Get to Yamashita Park Street & Hotel New Grand
Golden Ginkgo Avenue Lighting Up Yamashita Park Street
The best viewing period is usually from late November to early December. The entire street glows gold, and the promenade leading from Hotel New Grand toward Yamashita Park looks like a golden carpet.
Every time the wind blows, the golden leaves flutter down in the sunlight—creating what we call the “Autumn Miracle of Yokohama.” The best time to visit is between 2:00 and 3:00 PM, when the soft afternoon light enhances the beauty. The contrast between the white ship Hikawa Maru and the golden ginkgo trees is breathtaking.
Scenic Spot ①: The Golden Tunnel in Front of Hotel New Grand
The ginkgo trees in front of Hotel New Grand are so beautiful that everyone stops to take photos. The combination of the classic white building and the golden leaves looks like a painting. Viewed from across the street, the façade of the hotel glows in the light—like time has stopped for a moment.
Early morning between 9–10 AM is the best time to enjoy it quietly, when there are fewer people. The soft sound of footsteps on the fallen leaves adds to the charm.
Scenic Spot ②: View from the 2nd Floor of Hotel New Grand Main Building
Another must-see view is from the 2nd floor of Hotel New Grand’s main building. Through the lounge or hallway windows, you can see the golden leaves stretching out toward Yamashita Park and Hikawa Maru. When the afternoon sunlight streams in, the reflections sparkle like golden dust.
Just note that on weekends, the 2nd floor is often closed for weddings—so weekdays are best for visiting.
If you can only visit on a weekend, we recommend having a relaxing lunch at “Le Normandie” while enjoying the ginkgo view. Watching the golden trees sway beyond your table feels truly romantic and elegant.
Best Photo Spots and Times
・Sidewalk in front of the hotel: capture the New Grand framed by ginkgo (morning light is best)
・From Yamashita Park: combine Hikawa Maru and the ginkgo line in one shot (afternoon light adds drama)
・From 2F main building: stunning view of the park and sea beyond the golden trees (around 1 PM)
At night, the streetlights create a dreamlike atmosphere. A quiet golden world unfolds—completely different from the daytime.
Here’s a photo tip! Try capturing the red “Akai Kutsu” sightseeing bus passing by Hotel New Grand—it gives a vintage, retro feel that’s so stylish!
The Most Beautiful Moment of Yokohama’s Autumn
I love cherry blossoms in spring too, but this golden ginkgo view moves me the most.
The golden street, the blue sea, and the white New Grand—when these three come together, Yokohama truly shines!
The ginkgo avenue along Yamashita Park Street is the grand finale of Yokohama’s autumn. If you haven’t been yet, don’t miss it!
Access: How to Get to Yamashita Park Street & Hotel New Grand
The most scenic section is from Hotel New Grand to the Yamashita Park entrance, about 200 meters long—a lovely walk that takes about five minutes. Easy to access and perfect for a quick stop during your Yokohama sightseeing!
By Train
- Minatomirai Line “Motomachi-Chukagai Station” Exit 1 – about 3 minutes on foot. The hotel is right in front of the exit; cross toward the sea to find the ginkgo avenue.
- JR “Ishikawacho Station” – about 15 minutes on foot. Walk through Motomachi Shopping Street toward Yamashita Park for a pleasant autumn stroll.
By Bus
- Take a bus bound for “Yamashita Park-mae” from Yokohama Station East Exit or Sakuragicho Station. Get off at “Yamashita Park-mae”—it’s right there!
By Car
- Hotel New Grand offers parking for guests and restaurant visitors (paid).
- Public parking such as “Yamashita Park Parking Lot” is also available. During peak foliage season, early morning arrival is recommended.
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