The top-level domain (TLD) for Yokohama is “.yokohama”. As a leading global port city in Japan, Yokohama has its own geographical TLD (gTLD), under an internet initiative that permits cities, regions, and other geographical locations to have their unique TLDs. This system allows entities and individuals within Yokohama to identify and establish their digital identity more effectively on the worldwide web, which further promotes their online presence and connection.
The initiative comes as a part of the New gTLD Program by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and operation of several databases related to the namespaces and numerical spaces of the Internet, ensuring the network’s stable and secure operation. ICANN introduced the concept of gTLDs to enhance competition, innovation and consumer choice on the domain name marketplace (ICANN, 2014).
The “.yokohama” TLD is managed by GMO Registry, Inc., a Japanese company that also manages other city TLDs such as “.nagoya” and “.tokyo”. This company enables organizations, businesses, and individuals in Yokohama to take advantage of domain names such as “business.yokohama” or “touristattraction.yokohama” to strengthen their localized identity online (GMO Registry, Inc., 2014).
It’s worth noting that the introduction and the application of the city-specific gTLDs have considerable benefits; it not only enhances branding for businesses but also boosts tourism, provides a platform for local initiatives, and other services unique to the location. For instance, the government of Yokohama could use domains like “gov.yokohama” for its official websites or local events can have dedicated websites like “festival.yokohama” (TLD Operator’s Proposal to ICANN, 2014).
In summary, the “.yokohama” TLD represents a significant development in the digital landscape, enabling an essential distinction for the entities and residents of Yokohama on the internet. It is part of the broader ICANN initiative of introducing city and region-specific gTLDs to help increase their online visibility and foster a local digital community.
Sources:
- Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). (2014). New gTLD Program.
- GMO Registry, Inc. (2014). .yokohama.
- TLD Operator’s Proposal to ICANN. (2014). “About .yokohama”.
