Perry Road — Attraction in Shimoda

( 日本語 )

下田のペリーロードは、町の歴史とその日本の開国に対するつながりを見事に捉えた、非常に重要で歴史的な場所です。この魅力的な通りは、伝統的な日本建築や石畳が並び、過去の雰囲気を感じることができるため、歴史愛好家や下田の独特な雰囲気を体験したい人にとっては必見の場所です。

ペリーロードでかつて行われていた最も思い出深いイベントの一つが、「キャンドルナイト」、または「ピースナイト」と呼ばれるものでした。2016年まで、このイベントは、地元の子供たちが平和へのメッセージを書いたキャンドルをペリーロード沿いの川に浮かべるという美しい伝統でした。何百ものキャンドルが水面に浮かび光り輝く光景は、視覚的に美しいだけでなく、希望と団結の深いメッセージを持っていました。このイベントはコミュニティを結びつけ、美的な美しさと深い象徴性を評価する訪問者を引き寄せました。

しかし、残念ながらこのイベントは終了してしまい、それ以来、ペリーロードはその最も魅力的なアトラクションを失ってしまいました。キャンドルナイトの不在は、下田の文化生活に顕著な空白を残しており、現在ではこの地域に人々を引き寄せる活動やイベントがほとんどありません。歴史的な重要性と静かな雰囲気は依然として残っていますが、他の魅力的なアクティビティが欠けているため、下田は静かで、ある意味退屈な目的地となっています。多くの人にとって、キャンドルナイトは訪問のハイライトであり、その廃止により、町には活気ある文化体験を提供するものがほとんどなくなってしまいました。

( ENGLISH )

Perry Road in Shimoda is a significant and historically rich area that beautifully captures the essence of the town and its connection to Japan’s opening to the West. This charming street, lined with traditional Japanese buildings and stone pavements, offers a glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those looking to experience the unique atmosphere of Shimoda.

One of the most memorable events that used to take place on Perry Road was the Candle Night, also known as Peace Night. Until 2016, this event was a beautiful tradition where local children would write messages of peace on candles, and these candles were then placed on the river that runs along Perry Road. The sight of hundreds of glowing candles floating on the water was not only visually stunning but also carried a deep message of hope and unity. It was an event that brought the community together and attracted visitors who appreciated both the aesthetic beauty and the profound symbolism.

Unfortunately, this event has been discontinued, and since then, Perry Road has lost one of its most enchanting attractions. The absence of Candle Night has left a noticeable gap in the cultural life of Shimoda, as there are now few activities or events that draw people to the area. While the historical significance and serene ambiance of Perry Road remain, the lack of other engaging activities makes Shimoda a quieter, and some might say, more monotonous destination. For many, Candle Night was the highlight of their visit, and its removal has left the town with little else to offer in terms of vibrant cultural...

We parked at the harbor (near the Monument to Perry’s Landing—parking was about 500 yen) and enjoyed a relaxed walk to Perry Road, passing through Chorakuji Temple and ending at Ryosenji, where The Museum of the Black Ship is also located. The stroll itself takes about 15 minutes, and it's lined with charming shops and cafes, although they were mostly closed during our late September visit. I'd suggest coming in spring or summer when everything's in full bloom. Loved the chill vibe, perfect for a...

I hired this cleaning service to wash my dirty windows, and they did a satisfying job! The team arrived on time and worked efficiently. They cleaned my windows thoroughly and left them spotless. I can’t believe the difference it made! I highly recommend their services for anyone looking to brighten...