Perry Road in Shimoda, the town that opened the country to the outside world, brings back memories of history
Shimoda is a tourist town located in the south of the Izu Peninsula.
In summer, Shimoda is very popular for its crystal clear waters, and is very crowded with bathers.
There are also various activities to enjoy.
In this article, we would like to introduce some of the recommended spots around Shimoda Station.
Mt. Negata Ropeway
About a minute's walk from the station, there is a ropeway that takes you to Mt.
The name "Mt. Nezagata" comes from the fact that it looks like a woman lying on her back.
It is also called Shimoda Fuji.
After a 3-minute ropeway ride, you will arrive at the summit station.
Mt. Nezagata is also designated as Izu National Park.
Beautiful stories are in bloom in the flowerbeds, and a walking trail is well maintained.
There is a temple for marriage called Aizendo.
The ema (votive picture tablet) is a heart-shaped votive tablet for marriage.
It is good to go there as a couple to make a wish for love, childbirth, marriage, etc.
If you want to enjoy the spectacular view from Nezagatazan (Mt. Nezagata), the Nezagatazan Observation Deck is recommended.
The view of the vast ocean from the town of Shimoda is wonderful.
At the ropeway station, souvenirs and other items are available.
There are also souvenirs and other items available only here, so be sure to check it out.
Nezagata Shimoda Ropeway: http://www.ropeway.co.jp/index.html
Perry Road
Leaving Mt. Nezigata behind, the next stop is Perry Road.
The willow trees along the creek, the stone-paved road, and the gas lamps create a retro and nostalgic atmosphere.
This road is said to be the actual route that Perry took when he came to Japan on his black ships to conclude the Treaty of Shimoda.
The buildings with sea cucumber walls and Izu stones are also eye-catching.
It is a road to be enjoyed with the surrounding scenery while thinking about history.
There are also fashionable cafes and general stores along the Perry Road, where you can enjoy shopping and eating.
Perry Road is the road to Ryosenji Temple, where the Treaty of Friendship between Japan and the United States was concluded.
Ryosenji Temple is also known as Jasmine Temple.
When the flowers are in full bloom in May, the temple is very crowded with people as the Fragrant Flower Festival is held.
If you want to experience more of the history of Ryosen-ji Temple, you can also visit the temple. If you want to feel more of the history of Shimoda, the Shimoda Kaikoku Museum is a good place to visit.
Shimoda Kaikoku Museum is recommended. The history of the opening of Shimoda to the outside world is introduced here with easy-to-understand materials.
The museum has become even more well-known since it was awarded two stars in the Michelin tourist guide.
For souvenirs, Saikaya is located along Perry Road.
This store is a confectioner selling handmade candies, a rarity nowadays.
Saikaya has a long history, dating back to the Meiji period.
At the time of its founding, the store was a sugar retailer.
Today, the fifth generation of the family, Yuji Hagiwara, his wife Yuko, their son and daughter, make all the candies and sweets by hand.
From traditional candies to cute sweets that will bring a smile to your face.
A retro store that you may want to stop by for a quick walk around town.
Saikaya introduction page: http://shimoda100.com/sweet/saikaya/
Kurofuneyaki, a creative Japanese-style confectionery that says "I've come to Shimoda City! Kurofuneyaki, a creative Japanese confectionery, is popular in Shimoda City.
Kinme Festival and Hydrangea Festival
There are many dried fish shops and souvenir shops around the station.
Shimoda is famous for its kinmedai (sea bream).
In June, the Kinmedai Festival is held at the roadside station Kaigoku Shimoda Minato.
In addition to boiled sea bream, you can enjoy a variety of other dishes such as burgers and croquettes.
Kinmedai (sea bream) is full of fat from spring to summer. It is really tasty, so you should try it.
The hydrangea festival is also held around the same time, so be sure to visit there as well.
Spring and summer are the best seasons to enjoy kinmedai (sea bream), as they are full of fat and especially delicious.
The KINME MATSURI is held to coincide with this season.
For details on the Kinme Festival and Hydrangea Festival, click here.
Izu Shimoda Tourist Association official website: https://www.shimoda-city.info/event/kinme.html
Post by Nana
小川沿いの柳並木、石畳の道、ガス灯、レトロでノスタルジックな雰囲気バツグンのスポットです。
この道は、黒船で来航したペリーが下田条約締結の為に実際に通ったといわれているみちです。
なまこ壁や伊豆石などの建物群も目を引きます。
歴史に思いを馳せながらこの道を周りの景色と共に楽しみたいですね。
またこのペリーロードには、おしゃれなカフェや雑貨屋さんなどがあり、お買い物も食べ歩きも楽しめちゃいます。
ペリーロードとは、日米和親条約を結んだ了仙寺までの道のりのことをいいます。
了仙寺は、別名ジャスミン寺ともいわれ、
5月の満開の頃は香りの花祭りが開催され大変賑わいます。
また、歴史をもっともっと感じたい！という方は、
下田開国博物館がオススメです。開国の歴史がわかりやすく資料とともに紹介されています。
ミシュラン観光ガイド２つ星に認定されたことで更に知名度があがりました。
お土産品は、ペリーロード沿いにある、さいかやさん。
こちらのお店、今では珍しい手作りの飴を売るお菓子屋さんです。
雑賀屋の歴史は古く、創業は明治期にさかのぼります。
創業当時は砂糖小売業を営んでいたというこのお店。
現在は五代目の萩原優治さん、奥様のゆうこさんと息子さんと娘さんの家族４人で飴やお菓子をすべて手作りしています。
伝統的な飴から、笑顔が溢れる可愛いお菓子が並ぶ。
街歩きにちょっと寄りたいレトロなお店。
さいかやさん紹介ページ：http://shimoda100.com/sweet/saikaya/
黒船焼という下田市にきましたー！って感じの創作和菓子が人気のようです。
