basic information

In 1853, when Japan still maintained a policy of self isolation towards the rest of the world, Commodore Matthew C. Perry sailed to Japan in order to request the opening of Japanese ports to US ships. In the following year, Perry returned to Japan with a squadron of nine war ships, the so called "black ships" (kurofune), to force his request upon the Japanese. In spring 1854, a treaty was concluded, which opened the ports of Shimoda and Hakodate to American ships.

Model of a Black Ship

Perry Road

Despite having been a humiliating event for Japan at the time, Perry's arrival has become Shimoda's major tourist attraction, and the commodore and his black ships are omnipresent in the city today. Among Shimoda's many Perry related attractions is Ryosenji Temple, a Buddhist temple, where the Shimoda Treaty was signed in 1854, and whose treasure house is now exhibiting many Perry related articles.

Cafes, boutiques and willow trees line Perry Street, a pleasant street that leads along a canal to Ryosenji Temple.

More monuments commemorating Perry and the start of US-Japanese diplomatic relations stand in Shimoda Park. Not at last, the Kurofune Matsuri (Black Ship Festival) is held in the city every year in mid May, commemorating the arrival of Perry with a parade and various other festive events.

Ryosenji Temple

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how to get there

Perry related sights are spread across the city of Shimoda.

How to get to and around the Izu Peninsula

7th of 10 most visited sights in Izu Peninsula.
362nd of 509 most visited sights nationwide.

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