Yokohama International Costume Parade

The Yokohama Parade (ザ・よこはまパレード) is a spectacular highlights of the Golden Week holidays, famously featuring an array of vibrant marching bands, elaborate floats, and synchronized dance teams. The event is divided into two segments: the “Kids’ Parade” begins at 10:45 AM, following a 1.4km route to Bankoku Bridge, while the “Super Parade” starts at 11:15 AM. This main procession departs from Yamashita Park, crossing the scenic Bankoku Bridge before winding through the Minato Mirai district toward Isezakicho. Stretching over 3.4km, this high-energy matsuri attracts massive crowds to the waterfront, celebrating the city’s cosmopolitan spirit with a grand display of music and international costume artistry.

For the best viewing experience, the area around the Red Brick Warehouse and the Shinko Circle Walk offers excellent vantage points for photography, though these spots fill up early. Access is most convenient via Motomachi-Chukagai Station or Nihon-odori Station on the Minatomirai Line. Because the parade route covers a significant distance, many spectators choose to watch the start at Yamashita Park before moving toward the finish line at Isezaki-cho 6-chome to enjoy the local food stalls and shopping atmosphere. Please note that major road closures are in effect throughout the morning, so public transport is the only reliable way to reach the waterfront.