Yokohama’s Chinatown is only ten minutes from downtown Yokohama and 30 minutes from Shibuya by train, but its rich historical Chinese heritage has shaped Yokohama’s Chinatown culture over the decades, but nothing is as influential as the neighborhood’s two main spiritual sites, Kanteibyo and Masobyo temples. Here’s everything you need to know about these fascinating Chinatown centerpieces.
Kanteibyo was founded in 1862 and is also known as Guan Gong Temple or Temple of Emperor Guan, and is the spiritual center of Yokohama’s Chinatown. This is so because, during the Chinese New Year, it is one of the most populous places in all of the city. Located in the center of Chinatown, the temple is a bright red structure decorated with sumptuous Chinese details. It is known as the home of the god of good business and prosperity, making it a must-see for locals looking for luck.
About two-minutes walk from Chinatown’s lantern-populated road is Masobyo Temple, also known as Yokohama Ma Zhu Miao. It is a Taoist temple, that is relatively new, having opened in 2006. It represents a home shrine to the goddess Mazu. This temple is said to be the place you should go if you are looking for luck on your travels, as well as health and fitness and just happiness in general.
AloJapan.com