Yokohama, Japan's second-largest city with 3.77 million residents, serves as capital of Kanagawa Prefecture and largest port city in Greater Tokyo Area. Located on Tokyo Bay just 30 kilometers south of Tokyo, Yokohama transformed from small fishing village to major international port after Commodore Perry's 1854 arrival forced Japan's opening to Western trade. The 1859 port opening made Yokohama one of first Japanese cities exposed to Western culture, creating cosmopolitan atmosphere that persists today. This international character manifests in Japan's largest Chinatown, historic Western-style buildings, and multicultural population distinguishing it from more traditional Japanese cities. The Minato Mirai 21 waterfront district, whose name means "harbor of the future," represents modern Yokohama—futuristic skyscrapers, shopping centers, convention facilities, and Landmark Tower (296 meters) creating skyline visible across Tokyo Bay.

Contemporary Yokohama balances international port heritage with role as residential and commercial center within Tokyo metropolitan area, housing workers commuting to Tokyo while maintaining distinct urban identity. The economy depends on port operations handling containerized cargo, manufacturing including automotive and electronics, corporate headquarters, tourism, and residential development serving Greater Tokyo. Challenges include competition from Tokyo overshadowing political and cultural significance, earthquake vulnerability along Pacific Ring of Fire requiring extensive preparedness, and aging population typical of developed Japanese cities. Yet Yokohama maintains appeal through waterfront redevelopment, cultural attractions, international atmosphere from historic port heritage, and livability combining urban amenities with seaside location. The city represents Japan's modern cosmopolitan face—Western-influenced yet distinctly Japanese, balancing tradition with innovation in post-industrial economy emphasizing services, technology, and quality of life.