What other travelers are saying about Yokohama Mazu Miao
Mazu is a southern Chinese deity that’s often associated with the sea. Many from the Chinese diaspora before WWII settled in all parts of the world are from south China and dedicate their safe journey to new lands with a temple to Mazu - hence this one here in Yokohama Chinatown.
The building itself is relatively newly furnished and it’s a stunning example of Chinese temple architecture. The praying method is Chinese (they numbered the altars so you know the sequence, and pillows installed on the ground where devotees can kneel before the deity - though this is voluntary), but there are some Japanese influences - like how they sell charms like what you see in Japanese Shrines.
This is always a fun temple to visit. Not only does it have a beautiful gate, but the grand dual stairway makes the temple grounds feel much bigger than it is. The Chinese New Year's celebration is always crowded, but worth going for the variety of dance performances and music. The lion dances are great fun as they move through the crowd, "biting" people's heads to give them good fortune. And who wouldn't want to put their head in a celebratory lion's mouth for a year of good fortune?
I happened to be walking around Chinatown and I ended up in front of this place and just looking at it was great.
It turned out that a few minutes after taking some photos, some staff came out and they had an event scheduled for that night so there was a Chinese Dragon dance and there was traditional music.
It was an amazing unexpected experience which I got to live.
Although not old, this temple is beautiful and colorful and it is a nice addition to Chinatown. If you are strolling the narrow streets, you should stop by this place. You can make some amazing photos here. If possible try to avoid the crowds.
Pretty awesome place to pay a visit with family! You can donate some money to worship her. The Mazu god is from Taiwan, and she is a kind and wonderful female god who cares people and guide them in the ancient time for sailors.
Personal recommend: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Family-friendly: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Date for couples: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Parking lot: ✕
Services/meals/products/design: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Period for stay:
Mazu, also known as the Empress of Heaven, is a Chinese sea goddess believed to protect sailors and fishermen. She is widely venerated in coastal regions of China and among Chinese communities around the world.
The temple features traditional Chinese architectural elements, including vibrant red and gold colors, intricate carvings, dragon motifs, and statues of deities. The temple's design reflects the rich cultural heritage of Chinese temples.
Yes, the temple hosts several traditional Chinese festivals, including Mazu’s birthday, the Lantern Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival. These events often feature cultural performances, lion dances, and other festivities.
Visitors should dress modestly, remove their hats before entering the temple, and be respectful of worshippers. Photography of people praying should be avoided, and visitors should not touch the statues or offerings.
Yokohama Mazu Miao is located in Yokohama’s Chinatown, easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest station is Motomachi-Chukagai Station on the Minato Mirai Line. From the station, it’s a short walk to the temple.
