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Shimoda

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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.

Location
Inception
April 1, 1889
Reference
222194
Shares border with
Minamiizu, Kawazu, Matsuzaki
GPS coordinates
34.67953,138.94531
Latest update
December 13, 2025 19:06

AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Shizuoka Prefecture).

« Shimoda - Port settlement in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan » is provided by Around Us (aroundus.com). Images and texts are derived from Wikimedia project under a Creative Commons license. You are allowed to copy, distribute, and modify copies of this page, under the conditions set by the license, as long as this note is clearly visible.

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