Yokohama Stadium Travel Guide

Right in the heart of Yokohama Park, Yokohama Stadium stands out as Japan’s first multi-purpose stadium and the proud home of the Yokohama DeNA Bay Stars baseball team. You’ll find it incredibly easy to reach—just a quick 2-minute stroll from Kannai Station on the JR Negishi Line. The setting is pretty unique, too, with all the greenery around making it feel friendlier than a lot of Japan’s other ballparks.

If you’re coming with kids, you’ll notice the stadium really tries to keep families in mind. There’s stroller check, “momaro” nursing pods, and changing tables in the women’s restrooms. Besides baseball, they host American football and live events all year, so you’ve got plenty of chances to catch something fun at this iconic spot.

As you walk up, just look around—there’s something about the stadium’s size and design against the park’s trees that feels like a little city oasis. When the Bay Stars play, the place buzzes with energy and you’ll get a real taste of Japanese baseball culture: organized cheering, classic stadium snacks, and a vibe that’s just a bit different from what you might expect elsewhere.

Overview of Yokohama Stadium

Yokohama Stadium is a local landmark—people call it “Hamasta.” This multi-purpose venue offers great sightlines and sits right in the middle of Yokohama Park’s greenery.

History and Background

Back in 1978, Yokohama Stadium opened as Japan’s first multi-purpose stadium. While it was designed for all sorts of sports, it’s mostly become known as a baseball home base. The stadium marked a shift in Japanese sports, moving away from old-school venues to something more modern and fan-friendly.

Being inside Yokohama Park gives it a special feel—lots of trees and open space. It’s genuinely pleasant to hang around before or after games.

They’ve renovated the stadium a few times, always trying to upgrade things for fans but still keeping that cozy, intimate atmosphere that makes Hamasta feel different.

Significance in Japanese Sports

Yokohama Stadium is the home field for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Nippon Professional Baseball’s Central League. The BayStars’ fans are devoted, and home games usually fill up with a lively crowd.

The stadium hosts more than just baseball. It’s seen some pretty big international sporting events over the years. While it’s not as massive as Nissan Stadium (that’s where they did the Rugby World Cup), Hamasta has become a real fixture in Yokohama’s culture.

With room for 30,000+ fans, it’s the right size for mid-sized events. Its location in central Yokohama helps bring sports fans together from all over.

Games here really show off Japanese baseball culture—think coordinated cheering, unique rituals, and a whole different energy compared to American games.

Stadium Facilities

You get great views from just about every seat, thanks to the open design that keeps fans close to the action. The field uses real grass, and the grounds crew keeps it in top shape all season.

Amenities you’ll find:

• Lots of food stands with Japanese stadium classics
• Clean, well-kept toilets throughout
• Shops selling BayStars gear
• Info centers with English-speaking staff

The stadium is accessible for everyone—there are elevators and special seating for visitors with mobility needs. Signs include English, which helps if you’re visiting from abroad.

Yokohama Park acts as a buffer, so you don’t get all the city noise, and it’s a nice place for a stroll before the game—especially during cherry blossom season, when the area looks incredible.

Location and Access

Yokohama Stadium sits right inside Yokohama Park, so you get both a sports venue and a pretty spot for wandering. The central location means you’ve got plenty of ways to get there from Tokyo and other cities.

Address and City Centre

You’ll find Yokohama Stadium at 22-2 Nihon-odori, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, smack in the middle of the city and surrounded by green space.

From here, you can walk to Chinatown, the waterfront, and a bunch of shops and restaurants—handy for grabbing a bite before or after the game.

Yokohama’s Japan’s second-biggest city, and it’s only about 30-45 minutes south of Tokyo, so it’s an easy day trip if you’re staying in the capital.

Getting to Yokohama Stadium

Getting to the stadium is straightforward from several train stations:

• Kannai Station: Just 2 minutes on foot from the north exit (JR Keihin-Tohoku/Negishi Line, Yokohama Subway Line)
• Nihon-Odori Station: 3 minutes away (Minatomirai Line)
• Sakuragicho Station: About a 10-minute walk

If you’re coming from Tokyo, hop on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Kannai Station. It usually takes 30-40 minutes from central Tokyo.

Driving is possible, but parking’s pretty limited and game days get crowded—public transit is usually the way to go.

Nearby Transport Hubs

Yokohama Station is the closest big hub, about 2 km from the stadium. From there, you can:

• Switch to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line for Kannai Station
• Grab a taxi (about 10 minutes)
• Walk if you’re up for it (25-30 minutes, give or take)

Shin-Yokohama Station has the Shinkansen bullet trains, so you can get to Yokohama from pretty much anywhere in Japan. From Shin-Yokohama, take the JR Yokohama Line to Yokohama Station, then transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line for Kannai.

Both stations have plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants if you’re staying nearby.

Events at Yokohama Stadium

Yokohama Stadium keeps busy all year, with a packed schedule of sports and entertainment. The 30,000-seat venue works well for all kinds of events, and the facilities are solid.

Baseball Games and the BayStars

The Yokohama DeNA BayStars call this stadium home, and it’s the heart of baseball in the city. They play in the Central League, and the season runs from March to October.

Home games get loud—fans love their chants and cheers, and there’s a real buzz in the air. “Star Night” games are a highlight, with special lighting and a party atmosphere.

You can get tickets through the BayStars’ official site or at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart. Prices range from 1,500 to 8,000 yen, depending on where you want to sit.

For the most fun, the outfield “Exciting Seats” put you right in the thick of the action with the most passionate fans. Gates open two hours before first pitch, so there’s time to look around and grab a snack.

Rugby Matches and International Events

Yokohama Stadium got a lot of attention when it hosted Rugby World Cup matches, even the final. It still hosts important rugby games, both domestic and international.

The seating works well for rugby, too—no bad views, really. Big matches like Japan Rugby League One and international tests happen here pretty regularly.

Rugby days feel different from baseball—more international visitors, different food stalls, and usually some pre-game performances. Staff are used to helping English-speaking visitors, and signs are in several languages.

Football and Other Sports

Besides baseball and rugby, the stadium sees football (soccer) and American football games. Sometimes there are J-League exhibition matches with top Japanese teams.

The X-League (Japan’s American football league) holds a few games here each season, which is a cool way to see a Japanese take on American sports.

During the off-season, you might catch exhibition games, college sports, or martial arts competitions. These events often have family-friendly activities and special food options.

To see what’s coming up, check the official Yokohama Stadium website. Tickets for non-baseball events are usually on sale via Ticket Pia, e+, and other major ticketing sites.

Nearby Attractions and Neighborhoods

Yokohama Stadium sits in a great spot, surrounded by attractions that mix Japan’s history and modern life. You’ll find international eats and historic sites just a short walk away.

Exploring Chinatown

Yokohama’s Chinatown is only about 10 minutes on foot from the stadium. It’s the largest in Japan—maybe even all of Asia—and the energy is always high. You’ll spot ornate gates at the entrances, with Zenrinmon Gate being the main one.

There are more than 500 shops and restaurants squeezed into the area. Most people come for the food—xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Peking duck, and bubble tea from street vendors are always popular.

Shops usually open from 11 AM to 8 PM. If you want to avoid the crowds, try going on a weekday. Make sure to see Kantei-byō Temple in the center—a colorful spot dedicated to the god of prosperity.

Quick tip: Some restaurants do special deals if you show your game ticket.

Historic Fishing Village Origins

Yokohama started out as a fishing village before it grew into Japan’s second-biggest city. You can still find traces of that history nearby.

The Kaiko Hiroba area (Ocean Opening Square) marks where Commodore Perry landed in 1854, which kicked off Japan’s trade with the world. You’ll see historical markers and monuments telling the story.

Yamashita Park nearby has fishing boat replicas and maritime displays, plus a great view of the harbor.

If you’re a history buff, check out the Yokohama Archives of History—about 15 minutes from the stadium. They’ve got artifacts and exhibits showing how the fishing village became a major port.

Side Trips to Kamakura

If you have a free day, Kamakura is just a half-hour train ride away. This old city was Japan’s first samurai capital (1185-1333).

The Great Buddha (Daibutsu) is the big draw—a 13-meter bronze statue from 1252, and you can even go inside it.

Kamakura has over 65 Buddhist temples and 19 Shinto shrines. Hase-dera Temple gives you sweeping bay views and has thousands of tiny statues dedicated to the Buddhist deity of mercy.

You can walk most places, but the Enoden scenic railway is handy for hitting the main sights. For lunch, try shirasu (whitebait fish), a local favorite near Kamakura Station.

Dining and Local Cuisine

Yokohama’s food scene covers everything from stadium snacks to proper Japanese meals. Whether you want a quick bite or a sit-down dinner, you’ll find plenty of options.

Ramen Around the Stadium

There are some great ramen joints within walking distance of the stadium. Yoshimuraya is a favorite for classic Yokohama-style ramen with thick, rich pork broth—locals swear by it, and it’s just seven minutes from the main gate.

If you’re up for a little adventure, the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum is just a short train ride away. It’s a quirky spot with mini versions of famous ramen shops from all over Japan, so you can sample a bunch of styles in one go.

IE-kei ramen, a Yokohama specialty with thick noodles, pork and soy sauce broth, spinach, and garlic, is the star at Matsuichi near Kannai Station. It’s a good pre-game meal, though you might have to wait in line (it moves pretty fast).

Food Options Inside the Stadium

Yokohama Stadium’s food stands offer more variety than most Japanese ballparks. Beer vendors walk the aisles during games, so you can grab a cold Kirin or Asahi without leaving your seat.

You’ll find all the Japanese stadium staples:

• Yakisoba (fried noodles)
• Karaage (Japanese fried chicken)
• Takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Curry rice bowls
• Bento boxes

Most vendors take credit cards, but it’s smart to have some cash for smaller purchases. Prices are a bit higher than in town, but that’s pretty standard for stadium food.

You’re allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, and lots of local fans do to save a few yen.

Recommended Restaurants in Yokohama

Chinatown’s just a 15-minute walk from the stadium and, honestly, it’s packed with places to eat—perfect for grabbing a bite before a night game or winding down after a day one. Manchinro Honten stands out if you’re after dim sum or Peking duck, and the vibe inside feels a bit fancy without being stuffy.

If you’re into craft beer, you’ll want to check out Craftsman near Yokohama Station. They’ve got a solid lineup of local brews, and their margherita pizza is surprisingly good. It’s pretty laid-back—ideal for chilling out post-game.

Noge’s another spot worth wandering through. It’s full of tiny joints serving real-deal Japanese food. Sakura-tei, for example, lets you grill your own okonomiyaki right at the table. The whole district gets lively after dark, especially with business folks and baseball fans mixing together.

Want something a little more upscale? Yokohama Royal Park Hotel’s restaurant delivers gorgeous bay views and refined Japanese dishes that change with the season.

Other Sports Venues in Yokohama

Yokohama’s got more than just a famous baseball stadium. The city’s home to several top-notch sports venues that host everything from soccer to concerts and even cultural festivals throughout the year.

Nissan Stadium

Nissan Stadium is massive—one of Japan’s biggest, actually, with room for 72,327 fans. The Yokohama F. Marinos soccer team plays here, and back in 2002, it even held the FIFA World Cup final.

You can spot its sweeping, asymmetrical roof from a distance, and most seats have great sightlines thanks to the bowl shape. Pretty impressive, honestly.

Getting there’s not complicated: hop on the JR Yokohama Line to Shin-Yokohama Station and walk about 10 minutes. On match days, crowds build up fast around the stadium, so arriving early is smart.

Inside, you’ll find your usual stadium snacks plus some Japanese favorites. It’s not gourmet, but it does the trick.

International Stadium Yokohama

International Stadium Yokohama (yeah, it’s also called “Nissan Stadium”—kind of confusing, right?) hosted the 2019 Rugby World Cup final and regularly brings in big international events. The design feels modern, and the acoustics are surprisingly good for a place this size.

You’ll find it up in northern Yokohama, just a quick trip from Yokohama Station via the JR Yokohama Line to Shin-Yokohama. The whole journey takes less than half an hour.

Seats are comfy, and you can see well from pretty much anywhere. Thanks to the retractable roof, you won’t have to worry about rain messing up your plans.

If you’ve got some time, the Kozukue area nearby has a handful of restaurants and shops—nice for grabbing a bite before or after whatever you’re seeing.

Yokohama Arena

Yokohama Arena is the go-to spot for indoor events, with space for 17,000 people. It’s in the Shin-Yokohama district and hosts everything from basketball and ice skating to major concerts.

The round design isn’t just for looks—it does wonders for the sound, which is probably why so many musicians love playing here. The Yokohama B-Corsairs, the city’s pro basketball team, call it home during basketball season.

It’s easy to get to—just a five-minute walk from Shin-Yokohama Station. Inside, you’ll find modern facilities, clear signs in a bunch of languages, and staff who can actually help out in English if you need it.

Food stands inside serve a mix of Japanese and international bites. If you want more options, Cubic Plaza shopping center is right next door with plenty to eat before or after your event.

Travel Tips and Practical Information

A little planning goes a long way when visiting Yokohama Stadium. Getting the right tickets, knowing when to go, and having a sense of the layout can make your experience at this 30,000-seat stadium way more enjoyable.

Tickets and Seating

You can buy baseball tickets for Yokohama Stadium online through the DeNA BayStars site or at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart using their ticket machines. For popular games, it’s best to grab tickets 2–3 weeks ahead of time.

Here’s a quick rundown on seats:

• Infield Seats: Best views, but pricier (¥4,000–6,000)
• Outfield Seats: Cheaper (¥2,000–3,500)
• “Wild” Standing Areas: Super affordable for casual fans (¥1,500–2,000)

If you’re with family, check out the “Family Seats” in sections A and B—they’re less crowded and good value. Couples might like the “Pair Seats,” which have a bit more space and nicer amenities.

Seats get pretty hard during early spring and late fall games, so bringing a cushion isn’t a bad idea.

Accessibility and Toilets

Yokohama Stadium has solid accessibility for visitors with mobility needs. Wheelchair spots sit on the first-floor concourse, and there are companion seats nearby, but you’ll need to reserve ahead since they’re limited.

Restrooms are spread across all levels:

• First floor: 10 toilet areas (4 are accessible)
• Second floor: 8 toilet areas
• Third floor: 6 toilet areas

Women’s restroom lines get long during the 7th inning stretch and right after games. It’s worth timing your break for quieter moments if you want to avoid the wait.

All main routes have ramps and elevators, so moving between levels isn’t a hassle. If you get stuck or need help, staff at the info counters are usually pretty helpful.

Best Times to Visit

The baseball season usually kicks off in late March and keeps rolling through October, with playoffs sometimes stretching into November. If you want a comfortable trip, try these times:

• April-May: Weather feels great, and weekday games aren’t packed.
• June: The rain hasn’t really started yet, so you’ll dodge most storms.
• September-October: The worst summer heat has faded by now.

Honestly, August games can be brutal—humidity and high temps make things sticky, and even with a partial roof, it’s not much relief.

Weeknight games (Monday-Thursday) draw smaller crowds and you’ll get around the stadium more easily. Sundays are more of a family scene, but those tickets go fast.

If you show up about an hour or so before the first pitch, you’ll have plenty of time to check out the stadium, grab a snack, and soak up the pre-game buzz—without feeling rushed.