A series of closures is affecting the historic Yokohama Chinatown, home to many iconic, long-standing stores and restaurants. The commercial heart of Japan's largest Chinatown is feeling the economic hardship, with famous establishments unable to continue in the face of financial challenges. The exact reasons for these closures are not stated, but this could reflect the broader economic climate in Japan.

Yokohama's Chinatown is not just a commercial district, but a cultural heritage site and a major tourist destination in Japan. Therefore, these closures could be seen as a loss of national cultural identity and a blow to the tourism economy. Japan's local businesses are frequently family-owned, sometimes running for generations, and efficient government support is highly sought to keep the businesses survive and thrive.

Municipal businesses struggling and closing down is not unique to Japan. Similar phenomena can be seen worldwide, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic where businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, in the US and EU are also struggling and seeking government support to keep afloat.