Market Dates and Opening Hours

The event usually begins in late November and runs until the evening of December 25th in 2026. Most stalls open daily at 11:00 AM and stay busy until the gates close at 9:00 PM. During the final week, the market often extends its hours to accommodate the large holiday crowds. You should check the official opening hours guide before you travel.

Weekends are the busiest times so arriving early will help you avoid the longest lines for food. The atmosphere changes completely once the sun sets and the millions of fairy lights begin to glow brightly. Plan to spend at least three hours exploring the different zones of the market for the best experience. Early December is a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the festive spirit comfortably.

The market is divided into several areas including the traditional craft zone and the main food plaza. Each section has slightly different timing depending on the day of the week and local weather conditions. Heavy rain or snow might cause some outdoor stalls to close earlier than the scheduled closing time. Always keep an eye on local weather reports to ensure your visit goes exactly as planned.

Visiting during a weekday morning is the best way to see the decorations without the massive evening crowds. You can take better photos of the giant tree when there are fewer people standing in the main square. Many locals visit after work so the energy levels rise significantly after 6:00 PM on most nights. This guide ensures you know exactly when to arrive for the most magical holiday moments.

Ticket Prices and Booking Tips

Entrance fees for the market are very affordable but vary depending on which day you choose to visit. Weekdays usually cost around 500 yen while weekends and peak holidays might see a slight price increase. Children under a certain age can often enter for free making this a great family activity in 2026. You can find more details in our ticket booking prices article.

Using a smartphone app to book your tickets in advance is highly recommended for all weekend visitors. This allows you to skip the long ticket booth lines and enter through a dedicated fast-track lane. Some premium tickets even include a commemorative mug that you can use for your first warm drink. Make sure to have your digital ticket ready on your phone screen before you reach the entrance.

• Book online to save time at the gate
• Check for special discounts for large groups
• Keep your digital receipt for re-entry purposes
• Verify if priority entry is available for your date

The market uses a timed entry system during the busiest days to keep the crowds at safe levels. This means you must select a specific arrival window when purchasing your tickets through the official website. If you miss your time slot you might have to wait for the next available opening. Planning your travel schedule carefully will help you avoid any unnecessary stress during your holiday visit.

Delicious Food and Drinks to Enjoy

The scent of cinnamon and grilled sausages fills the air as soon as you enter the market grounds. You must try the traditional bratwurst which is served hot with a side of spicy German mustard. Many stalls also offer hearty bowls of beef stew that are perfect for keeping you warm outside. Check our list of the best food to eat for more delicious ideas.

Hot mulled wine is the most popular drink and it comes in a variety of festive flavors. You can choose between classic red wine or a sweet white wine infused with local Japanese citrus fruits. Non-alcoholic options like hot chocolate with whipped cream are also available for children and non-drinkers alike. Most drinks are served in beautiful ceramic mugs that you can keep as a special holiday souvenir.

Sweet treats are abundant throughout the market with stalls selling freshly baked stollen and warm gingerbread cookies. You might also find Japanese-style Christmas cakes which are light sponges topped with fresh cream and strawberries. These desserts are perfect for sharing with friends while you sit near the heaters in the dining area. Don't forget to try the roasted nuts which are coated in sugar and served in paper cones.

Prices for food items typically range from 800 to 1,500 yen per dish at most market stalls. While some vendors accept credit cards it is always wise to carry enough cash for smaller food purchases. The lines for the most popular food stalls can be long so try eating at off-peak times. Sharing several different dishes with your group is the best way to taste everything on offer.

Shopping for Unique German Souvenirs

Shopping is a major highlight of the event with dozens of wooden huts selling authentic European goods. You can find intricate hand-painted ornaments that will look beautiful on any Christmas tree back at home. Many of these items are imported directly from the Erzgebirge region of Germany for total holiday authenticity. Read our guide on what souvenirs to buy for the best shopping tips.

Traditional nutcrackers and incense smokers are available in many different sizes and styles for collectors to enjoy. These wooden figures are crafted with great detail and represent the high quality of German folk art traditions. You will also see beautiful snow globes that feature the Red Brick Warehouse and the Yokohama skyline. These items make wonderful gifts for friends and family who could not join you in Japan.

Local artisans also participate by selling handmade candles and winter accessories like scarves and knitted hats. These items often feature unique designs that blend German traditions with modern Japanese aesthetics and color palettes. You can even find custom-made jewelry that incorporates festive themes and sparkling crystals for a touch of luxury. Supporting these small vendors is a great way to find one-of-a-kind treasures during your trip.

Most shopping stalls are located in the central area of the market near the large Christmas tree. Take your time to browse every hut as each one offers something slightly different and very special. Some vendors offer gift wrapping services which is very convenient if you are buying presents for the holidays. Remember that popular items might sell out as Christmas Day approaches so shop early in the season.

How to Reach the Red Brick Warehouse

Getting to the market is very easy thanks to the excellent public transportation system in the city. The closest train station is Nihon-odori on the Minatomirai Line which is just a short walk away. You can also use the Sakuragicho Station if you prefer a scenic walk through the modern harbor area. Our guide on how to get there provides step-by-step directions for everyone.

If you are coming from Tokyo the journey takes about forty-five minutes on the JR Tokaido Line. Once you arrive at Yokohama Station you can transfer to the local subway for the final short leg. Walking from the station to the warehouse allows you to see other beautiful winter illuminations along the way. The paths are flat and easy to navigate even if you are traveling with small children.

For a more unique experience you can take the Sea Bass boat from the Yokohama Station east exit. This boat ride offers stunning views of the city skyline and drops you off near the market entrance. The "Akai Kutsu" red bus is another great option that stops directly at the Red Brick Warehouse. These transportation methods add an extra layer of fun to your festive holiday adventure in 2026.

Parking near the warehouse is very limited and can be quite expensive during the busy holiday season. We strongly recommend using trains or buses to avoid traffic jams and the long search for a space. If you must drive try to arrive before the market opens to secure a spot in nearby lots. Public transport is definitely the most stress-free way to enjoy the Yokohama Christmas Market 2026 guide.

Best Photography Spots and Lights

The market is a paradise for photographers with thousands of lights creating a warm and inviting glow. The center of attention is always the ten-meter tall Christmas tree decorated with ornaments and bright lights. It stands proudly in the middle of the square and serves as the perfect backdrop for group photos. Check our winter photography spots guide for more professional tips.

Another great spot for pictures is the illuminated entrance arch which welcomes visitors into the festive German village. The warm yellow lights contrast beautifully with the dark night sky and the historic red brick buildings nearby. You can also head to the second-floor balcony of the warehouse for a high-angle view of the market. This perspective allows you to capture the scale of the event and the bustling holiday crowds.

The waterfront area behind the market offers spectacular views of the Bay Bridge and the giant Ferris wheel. These landmarks are also lit up for the winter season and provide a modern contrast to the market. Try to capture the reflection of the lights on the water for a truly magical and artistic shot. Using a tripod can help you get clear photos in the low-light conditions of the evening.

To avoid too many people in your shots try using these tips for avoiding crowds while you explore. Arriving just before sunset allows you to capture the "blue hour" when the sky is a deep indigo. This is often the most beautiful time for photography as the market lights start to pop. Remember to be patient and wait for the perfect moment to press the camera shutter button.