About .yokohama domain
.yokohama is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) classified as a geographic gTLD, or geoTLD, delegated to the Root Zone of the DNS on 3 April 2014 as part of ICANN's 2012 new gTLD expansion program. The registry agreement between ICANN and GMO Registry, Inc. was signed on 12 December 2013, with the TLD formally introduced to the public on 5 June 2014. GMO Registry, Inc., a Tokyo-based subsidiary of GMO Internet Group, was selected by Yokohama City to operate the extension and develop its brand both locally and internationally. The same registry also operates the related geographic extensions .tokyo and .nagoya, making it an experienced operator in Japan-focused geoTLDs.
Who can register .yokohama domain
.yokohama is an open registration TLD with no geographic restrictions — anyone anywhere in the world can register a domain under this extension, regardless of whether they live, work, or operate in Yokohama. There are no residency requirements, no organizational eligibility criteria, and no documentation needed to complete a registration. This open policy was an intentional decision by the registry to maximize the global reach and recognition of the extension.
How to register .yokohama domain
- Search for your desired .yokohama domain name using the availability tool at a commercial registrar that carries the extension. Because .yokohama is an open gTLD, there are no eligibility checks to pass before purchasing.
- Compare registrar offerings, paying attention to first-year introductory pricing versus renewal rates, as these can differ significantly. Also check whether WHOIS privacy protection is included or available as an add-on.
- Complete the checkout process, selecting your preferred registration term. Most registrars allow multi-year registrations, which can help lock in pricing and reduce renewal administration.
- After purchase, verify your registrant contact details are accurate — ICANN requires correct WHOIS information — and configure your DNS settings to point the domain to your website, email, or other service.
Typical uses of .yokohama domain
.yokohama domains are most commonly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals who want to establish a clear geographic identity tied to Yokohama, Japan. Local companies, shops, restaurants, tourism operators, and community groups use the extension to signal their connection to the city and stand out in local search results. Because registration is open globally, international businesses with a presence in Yokohama also adopt it to reinforce their regional branding. Creatives, bloggers, and entrepreneurs who appreciate the distinctiveness of a city-named extension choose .yokohama as a memorable alternative to more generic extensions.
Tips for registering .yokohama domain
- Registration terms are typically available on an annual basis; check your registrar for minimum and maximum term options before purchasing.
- First-year promotional pricing is common with geoTLDs — always check the renewal price before committing, as it may be considerably higher than the introductory rate.
- WHOIS privacy protection availability varies by registrar; confirm whether it is offered for .yokohama registrations if protecting your personal contact information is a priority.
- After registering, many registrars apply a transfer lock period (commonly 60 days) during which the domain cannot be transferred to another registrar — plan accordingly if you anticipate needing to move the domain soon after registration.
- Premium domain names under .yokohama may be priced significantly higher than standard registrations; check whether your desired name is classified as premium before proceeding to checkout.