The AIPPI World Congress is coming to Yokohama, Japan in September 2025 – a landmark event bringing the global IP community together in Japan.
We have gathered practical information for visitors attending AIPPI Yokohama 2025, which will be updated continuously. See our dedicated AIPPI 2025 information page here. You may also follow our LinkedIn page to stay informed of the latest updates and intellectual property insights.
It has been quite some time since a major international intellectual property conference was held in Japan, and this is a rare opportunity for patent and trademark professionals to come together in one of the country’s most vibrant and accessible cities.
We sincerely hope that as many IP practitioners as possible will make the trip and enjoy both the Congress and the unique experience of visiting Japan.
To help you prepare, we have put together a short guide to introduce Yokohama and highlight what makes it such a great destination.
Why Yokohama Is a Magnet for Foreign Visitors
Yokohama’s longstanding reputation as Japan’s first international port—and its continued cosmopolitan energy—makes it uniquely inviting to visitors from around the world.
- Gateway to international culture: Since opening in 1859, Yokohama has embraced global influences—from its iconic Chinatown to its Western-style waterfront—creating an atmosphere that feels both Japanese and international.
- Convenient access: Just 30-45 minutes from central Tokyo and close to Haneda airport, it is the perfect base for exploring the Tokyo region and beyond.
- Beautifully planned urban space: The Minato Mirai waterfront, pedestrian-friendly promenades, and thoughtfully designed open areas make strolling around a joy—and give the city an elegant, spacious feel compared to Tokyo.
- Rich variety of attractions: From historic red-brick warehouses, vibrant Chinatown, and serene Japanese gardens, to modern hotspots like Cosmo World and the CupNoodles Museum, Yokohama offers something for every interest.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Yokohama is not only full of attractions but also very convenient for visitors. Here are some practical tips that will make your stay easier:
- “Minato Mirai” literally means “Future Harbor.” The name reflects Yokohama’s vision as a modern waterfront city, blending business, leisure, and culture.
- Easy indoor access: The Minato Mirai district is connected by underground walkways and elevated decks, so you can move between key locations comfortably—even on rainy days.
- Convenient stores everywhere: You will find plenty of convenience stores (FamilyMart, Lawson, 7-Eleven) near the venue. They are great for quick meals, drinks, or withdrawing cash from ATMs.
- Transportation made simple: With a rechargeable IC card such as Suica or PASMO, you can travel seamlessly on trains, subways, buses, and even pay at many shops and vending machines.
These little tips will help you make the most of your time at AIPPI Yokohama 2025.
For sightseeing recommendations, please refer to our Strolling Guide and the follow-up articles we will be publishing soon.
