It is no secret that Japan prides itself on its transportation industry.

If you’ve been to Japan it’s highly unlikely that you’ve missed an opportunity to use at least one of the many hundreds of trains that weave their way through the cities. Not only that, but you’ve probably also experienced, or at least witnessed, the good range of bus, taxi and other transportation methods that exist in this well connected country.
And whilst it may be true that some companies focus a little bit more on increasing the quantity of people they can carry in one journey, they never attempt to put a damper on comfort (though you might not notice it).

Here, going to and from places is not a simple matter of getting from A to B. When people spend a specific amount of their day travelling, they want to enjoy it, and that is what many companies strive to create – an enjoyable, comfortable and convenient journey.

One of the most enjoyable and scenic ways to see Japan from a different perspective is by ropeway. Popular in mountainous and snowy regions, ropeways are also now being brought into the cities, with Yokohama’s ‘Air Cabin’ being the country’s first permanent urban ropeway.

The Yokohama Air Cabin will connect Sakuragicho station and Shinko Pier directly, making access more convenient between the two locations.

The urban ropeway is scheduled to open on 22 April 2021, and will feature barrier-free gondolas that are fully equipped with air-conditioning, meaning that rides will be comfortable year round.

The glass-walled gondola will provide a new way to enjoy the fascinating scenery of Yokohama’s Minatomirai waterfront, and with line operation running until 10pm, the ropeway is sure to attract people looking for a unique night view of the bay.

YOKOHAMA AIR CABIN Overview

Operation Hours: 10am - 10pm
Journey time per ride: 5 minutes
Opening date: 22 April 2021

The ropeway will be suspended 40 meters in the air, and travel 630 meters from Sakuragicho station to Shinko Pier. The line will hold 36 individual gondolas, which will each hold up to 8 people.

Fare (one way)

Adults (junior high and up): 1,000 yen
Children (3 years to elementary): 500 yen


By - Connie Sceaphierde.