Yokohama

In 1859 Yokohama was one of five ports that the Japanese government opened to foreign trade. The government at the time was looking to increase contact and exchange with other countries, and foreign trade provided a window through which Western culture was brought to Yokohama. Today Yokohama is still a hub of trade and exchange and boasts one of the largest Chinatown districts in the world.

World Cup Games to Be Held in Yokohama
Japan vs. Russia (June 9)
Saudi Arabia vs. Ireland (June 11)
Ecuador vs. Croatia (June 13)
Final (June 30)

Fun Facts About the Stadium
International Stadium Yokohama has been designed in a way that keeps the grass green all year long, and it also has excellent drainage. When Japan and France played in the Confederation Cup Final in International Stadium Yokohama last year, some 50 millimeters (2 inches) of rain fell in just one hour. But even so, the drainage prevented water from building up on the field and making it difficult to play. The field has an excellent reputation among players in the J. League, and it was named "best pitch" in the 2001 J. league Awards.

Famous Local Foods
Shao-mai are Chinese dumplings that are popular in Japan, and Yokohama produces more shao-mai than anywhere else in the country. These dumplings are made with finely ground pork or shrimp, seasoned with vegetables, wrapped in a thin wheat pastry, and steamed. They can be eaten as a snack or a main course with a meal, and they are popular with kids as well as adults. Yokohama is also famous for Chuka manju, a kind of steamed bun filled with pork.

Famous Sights
Yokohama was Japan's main international business center following the opening of its port, and many of the old buildings used then are still standing, such as the customs office, banks, and the old British Consulate. Among the newer attractions that the city has to offer is the Yokohama Science Center, where visitors can experience what it is like to take a journey into space. Yokohama also has a Doll Museum that contains about 9,600 dolls from 137 countries around the world. And the 320-meter Sky Walk at the Yokohama Bay Bridge, which offers a spectacular view of the city and surrounding area, is popular as well. The Sankeien Garden, meanwhile, is an oasis of peace and nature in the city.

Festivals
The Yokohama International Costume Parade is held every May. Groups of people from countries like the United States, China, South Korea, North Korea, and of course Japan, march through the streets in costumes that represent their country. Up to now, children have participated in the same groups with adults. But beginning in 2002, the fiftieth year that this event has taken place, there will be a separate parade just for kids.