Yokohama｜From Abandoned Customs Warehouse to Multifunctional Commercial Space: The Century-long Transformation of the Red Brick Warehouse

Originally built during the Meiji and Taisho eras, the red brick warehouses were designed as customs warehouses serving Yokohama Port. Behind their construction lies a story of urban competition. After the First Sino-Japanese War, Kobe and Osaka ports rapidly developed, prompting Yokohama to undertake large-scale expansions to avoid falling behind. To maximize the functionality of the national customs warehouses, the warehouses were equipped with Japan's earliest elevators and lightning rods, and even the back of the buildings was reinforced with steel frames. Thanks to their sturdy construction, the warehouses sustained relatively minor damage during the Great Kanto Earthquake. However, due to war and stagnation in development, the Red Brick Warehouses No. 1 and No. 2 were abandoned in 1989. Unexpectedly, the Minato Mirai project breathed new life into these warehouses. After restoration and revitalization, Warehouse No. 1 became an arts and cultural hub, while Warehouse No. 2 was transformed into a commercial facility. When they reopened in 2002, they caused a sensation, attracting over five million visitors annually and becoming a major tourist attraction in Yokohama. Following a major renovation in 2022, the warehouses became even more stylish, blending historical preservation with modern lighting and decor to create a trendy space. The site now features souvenir shops, curated boutiques, perfume stores, as well as cafes, dessert shops, and restaurants, resembling a large shopping mall bustling even on weekdays. Personally, I enjoy heading to the second floor, where a 150-meter-long red brick corridor is furnished with sofas, perfect for watching the sunset, feeling the sea breeze, and having heartfelt conversations with loved ones. Facing the sea, there's also a "Bell of Happiness," making it the perfect spot for romantic moments and promises by the ocean. 📍Address: 1 Chome Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001, Japan 🚗 Access: 15-minute walk from Bashamichi Station; 11-minute walk from Nihon Odori Station.