In Yokohama lies a shopping district that’s a far cry from the overcrowded neon-lit streets of Tokyo. Situated at the port opening of Yokohama, Motomachi’s selection of boutiques, cafes and restaurants, along with its beautiful surroundings, easily translates into a day outing. Set foot on the tile-patterned street, and right away you will know this is not your everyday retail center. Instead you find yourself in something reminiscent of a 1950s movie. Here you can find everything from the ever-present high street fashion brands to smaller, local boutiques, and it’s all just a short train ride away from Shibuya.
TBC Diner
4-161 Motomachi, Naka-ku,
Yokohama
Tel: 045-671-0344
www.best-cheesecakes.com
Shyly hiding in the back street of Motomachi is TBC Diner. The restaurant’s resemblance to a retro American diner could make you swear you were standing on the Hollywood set of a classic movie. TBC Diner not only successfully replicates the look of a 1950s diner, but also delivers in terms of food. Dishes available range from all-American style burgers and steak platters to Mexican tacos and quesadillas. If you fancy some pasta, there is a good selection as well. Prices are very decent, with a burger platter going for ¥800. It’s also a pleasant change from
your typical franchise food outlets.
Hiroki Fur and
Leather
2-89 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Yokokama
Tel: 045-681-4741
www.hiroki-co.jp
One of Motomachi’s more renowned stores, Hiroki Fur and Leather offers just about any fashion item made with what the store’s name suggests. The store is impossible to miss, with a red 1950s MG old-timer car in immaculate condition standing at its entrance, attracting curious passersby to come in and have a look. Opened in 1974, Hiroki specializes in fur and leather clothing, wallets, shoes and bags, and everything is designed and produced directly by
the firm. There is also a custom tailoring service
available,perfect for those with unique tastes
or sizes not available off the rack.
Captain’s Brands
1-20-2 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Yokohama
Tel: 045-663-2508
www.joymark-design.co.jp
A quick glimpse at the Captain’s Brands exterior and you would think that the store had been transplanted from a coastal port town in the US. The label is actually Japanese, and specializes in ‘American inspired goods.’ The shop’s line of American vintage-inspired clothing that has become ever so popular here, is by no means dull and imitative of other big household names. A lot of the clothes sport the face of the brand’s mascot, ‘Captain Santa,’ a jolly looking Santa Claus-like character. If comfy, casual clothing is your thing, Captain’s Brands is a worthy choice.
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