3. Arriving in Yokohama

After checking in at the Citadines Harbour Front Yokohama, we were greeted with an unexpected and very welcome surprise — a complimentary upgrade to a Superior room on the 13th floor. Not a bad way to start our stay. There’s something about being handed a room key with a better view than you planned for that instantly lifts your mood.

With bags dropped and curiosity kicking in, we headed out for our first stroll to Yamashita Park. The first thing that struck us was the sheer cleanliness of the city. Not a scrap of litter. No graffiti. Everything felt orderly, cared for, respected. It’s clear the Japanese take enormous pride in their surroundings — and it shows.

Inside the park, the atmosphere was relaxed and lively. We paused to watch a local comedian-acrobat who had drawn a small crowd. He was energetic, funny, and brilliantly skilled — the kind of unexpected street performance that makes you smile long after it’s over. Travel isn’t just about landmarks; it’s about these small, spontaneous moments.

The mild evening air made it perfect for a slow wander along the waterfront. Across the bay, the skyline shimmered as the light began to soften, and in the distance stood the impressive Yokohama Bay Bridge, stretching confidently across the water. It’s one of those views that invites you to stop, lean on the railing, and simply take it all in.

As day faded into night, we found ourselves standing before the beautifully illuminated NYK Hikawa Maru. This 1930s ocean liner — a survivor of wartime and now a maritime museum — looked magnificent lit up against the darkening sky. The ship’s lights rippled across the water, creating a scene that felt almost cinematic.

We continued through Yamashita Park, now transformed. Trees sparkled with lights, statues and fountains were softly illuminated, and at the heart of it all was a winter wonderland complete with an ice skating rink. It felt festive, magical, and quietly joyful all at once.

To round off the evening, we stopped at Jonathan's for dinner. Drinks, good food — and then the real surprise: our meal was delivered by a robot waiter. Watching it glide efficiently between tables was oddly fascinating. Efficient, polite, futuristic… and just a little bit brilliant.

A room upgrade, waterfront views, a historic ocean liner, twinkling park lights, and dinner served by a robot. Not a bad first evening in Yokohama at all.