Yokohama

/ˌjoʊkəˈhɑːmə/ noun

Definition

Japan's second-largest city, located south of Tokyo; a major port and commercial center. Also refers to products or companies originating from this city.

Etymology

From Japanese 'yoko' (beside, side) + 'hama' (beach, shore), literally meaning 'beside the beach'. The city grew from a small fishing village when it became one of Japan's first ports opened to foreign trade in 1854.

Kelly Says

Yokohama's rapid transformation from fishing village to major international port in just a few decades makes it a symbol of Japan's dramatic modernization during the Meiji period. The city pioneered many 'firsts' in Japan, including the first railway, first ice cream shop, and first beer brewery, earning it the nickname 'Japan's window to the world.'

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