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This cute cable car runs between Sakuragicho Station in the main part of Yokohama and Unga Park Station, in the Minato Mirai area in Yokohama – home to the Cup Noodles Museum and Cosmo World fun park – but is it worth riding it on your trip? We got on board to find out.
Well, it’s not the highest cable car in the world (just 40 metres), but it is a fun way to travel the 630 aerial metres between Yokohama proper and Minato Mirai and all the attractions it holds. We used it to get to the Cup Noodles Museum, and it started the day off with just the right element of fun.
The view is over the water between the main city and the island. On one side, you can see the rides of Cosmo World – and when we were there, a lovely line of cherry blossoms (although the doors block the view a bit going toward Minato Mirai). On the left, right now, there is a building site, then the water.
At night, you’d get a lovely view over Yokohama Harbour – although if you want this, I would go from Unga Park to Sakuragicho, as then the join in the doors won’t block your view.
If you have the choice between riding it during the day, or at night, I’d pick the night to see the lights.
What’s Near Each Station?
Sakuragicho
- Sky Duck
- Sail Training Ship Nippon Maru museum
- Yokohama Port Museum
- Cosmoworld Kids
- Transport to other areas of Yokohama
Unga Park
- Cup Noodles Museum
- Cosmo World – thrill ride side
- Cosmo Clock 21
- Yokohama World Porters Mall
- Yokohama Trick Art Museum
- Red Brick Warehouse is a short walk away
What Time Does the Air Cabin Run?
The first cars start at 10 am, and the last one leaves at 9 pm. The system is on a loop, so the cars are emptying and filling consistently, so you don’t need to wait long to get on.
The cars seat eight, but they put each group in individually, rather than filling them with people. The day we went, there were probably about 15 people in the queue in front of us, but we were up in the air within about 10 minutes of joining the queue.
How Much Does it Cost?
A one-way ride on the Yokohama Air Cabin costs 1000 yen per adult and 500 yen for children (3 to 11). Kids under 3 travel free.
If you book a return trip, it works out slightly cheaper than two singles at 1800 yen for adults and 900 for kids.
Personally, I think riding it once is enough, as it’s only about a 15-minute walk between the island and Yokohama, and the ride isn’t that long or super scenic – during the day at least.
You don’t need to book in advance; you can just turn up on the day and join the queue.
You can also buy a combination pass for the Air Cabin and the giant Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris Wheel that saves 300 yen per adult and 200 yen for children.
Do They Take Foreign Cards or IC Cards?
Yes. I paid with my WISE card, which is a VISA. They also take the other main types of credit cards.
You can also use IC Cards like Suica, Pasmo or ICOCA to pay for your ticket, but you don’t just swipe in directly with the card.
Is It Scary If You’re Afraid of Heights?
I hate heights – and cable cars- but Japan does keep testing me by putting me on them.
This one isn’t too bad. You’re only on there about five minutes.
It did stop once on our ride – they announced this was happening and explained that it was because someone needed a little extra time getting in, which at least reassured me that isn’t wasnt broken!
The car swayed a bit at this point, which I wasn’t totally happy about, but overall it’s a pretty short, smooth ride. Plus, you get to sit down, which I find makes them a lot more bearable.
Need Extra Planning Help?
Our Japan trip planners can help. You might like our First-Timers Japan Planner, which will help you plan your trip to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka step-by-step, including tips on everything from picking hotels to sightseeing and dining. Or our super-duper Tokyo Disney Planner makes arranging your park trip MUCH easier. Find them in our Planners store – printable and digital versions are available.
Is it Accessible?
The cars are barrier-free, and the boarding points can be accessed by lift. As I mentioned above, they will stop the ride for those who need a little extra time to get on and off.
Assistance dogs are also allowed in the cars.
However, if you need to enter with a wheelchair, I would just contact them to confirm the width between the seats in the car to ensure there is enough room.
It looked quite tight, but it’s possible they can lift the seat or have a specific wheelchair-accessible cabin.
Is It Okay With Strollers?
Yes. Again, you can get to the boarding station via the lift and then wheel straight into the car.
Is There a Stamp?
If you’re collecting stamps on your Japan trip, you won’t want to miss this one.
At your first departure point, you’ll get one half of the stamp, then when you get off at the other side, you can collect the other half.
I won’t spoil it by showing the whole thing.
And Don’t Miss the Poke Lid
There are five Pokémon manhole covers (and two post boxes) in Yokohama, and you’ll find this one close to the entry to the Air Cabin at Sakuragi-cho.
This website has a list and a map of all the Pokémon spots in Yokohama so you can add them to your list of things to do in this fun city.
Who Writes This Blog?
My name is Helen Foster, and I’m a journalist and author. My travel articles have appeared in publications including The Australian, Escape, RAC Horizons, Jetstar Magazine, Sainsbury’s Magazine, and more.
I’ve traveled to Japan eight times before – solo and with my partner and visited over 25 towns and cities. My last visit was November 2024 so, everything here is pretty up to date.
