Port Yokohama
Yokohama, the second-largest city in Japan, holds a significant position in the cruise industry. It is a strategic port city, welcoming multitudes of cruise ships from around the globe each year. The city's port, Yokohama Port, is not only one of the busiest ports in Japan, but it also ranks highly in the list of busiest ports worldwide.
The activities associated with cruise ships in Yokohama are diverse and extensive. The city offers a host of attractions that cruise ship passengers can explore, such as the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Chinatown, and the Yokohama Maritime Museum. Additionally, the city's vibrant culture and cuisine also draw in many cruise ship tourists, making it a significant contributor to Yokohama's tourism economy.
History
Yokohama, the second-largest city in Japan, opened its port to foreign trade in 1859 following the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and Japan. This was during the late Edo period when Japan was opening up to the West after more than 200 years of seclusion. The port, initially starting with the export of raw silk and tea, quickly became one of the busiest and most important in Japan.
In 1899, the port underwent significant development with the creation of the Yokohama Customs House, better known as the "Queen Tower". This was Japan's first western-style building and quickly became a symbol of the port city. Yokohama Port also saw significant growth in the 20th century, despite setbacks from the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 and World War II. Today, it serves as a major hub for global shipping and trade.