Shimoda, Port settlement in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Description
Shimoda is a port settlement at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. The community sits between mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean, where a warm current flows along the coast.
History
When Commodore Perry's ships arrived in the bay in 1854, the harbor opened for the first time to foreign vessels. Shortly after, the first American consulate in Japan was established here.
Culture
Every May the Black Ships Festival brings model warships into the bay while theater performances recall the opening of the harbor to foreign trade. Celebrations draw visitors from across the country who watch traditional dances and sample regional dishes.
Practical
Most points of interest can be reached on foot or by local bus from Shimoda Station. The best time to visit runs from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and beaches are accessible.
Did you know?
The lighthouse on Mikomotoshima has stood on a small offshore island since 1870 and remains the oldest operational lighthouse in the country. It holds the title of national historic monument.
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IZoo
7.3 km
Shimoda Aquarium
1.5 km
Ikonahime no Mikoto Shrine
3.1 km
Ryōsen-ji
893 m
Mikomotoshima Lighthouse
11.6 kmIrō Shrine
12.7 km
Irōzaki Lighthouse
12.5 km
Gyokusen-ji
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5.8 km
Chōraku-ji
959 m
Uehara Museum of Modern Art
5.7 km
Giant Camphor Tree at Sugihokowake no Mikoto Shrine
9.2 km
Saikō-ji
13.5 km
Shinmachi no O Sotetsu
9.4 km
Shimoda Kaikoku Museum
873 mSenda Ancient Ruins
3 km
Shimokamo Tropical Botanical Gardens
8.2 km
MoBS Kurofune Museum
869 m
Sugihokowake no Mikoto Shrine
9.1 km
Kawazu Bagatelle Park
8.8 km松陰像
1.4 km松陰像(まるで素浪人の様な石造)
1.5 kmShimoda Sea Aquarium
1.5 kmIzu-no-sentan Tour Center
759 mIchijyo-takenokomura
6.3 kmShu-kaku Taiken No-en Futatsu-bori
13.1 kmKawazu Carnation Gardens
9.1 km和み優
8.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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