Ryosen-ji Temple (Harris Treaty) - Image 1
1 / 10

Ryosen-ji Temple Shimoda

3.9
·626 reviews·Shimoda, Japan

Historic temple marking the 1854 US-Japan treaty site, featuring a serene garden and unique Buddha statues.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Ryosen-ji Temple (Harris Treaty) - Image 1

Ryosen-ji Temple Shimoda

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic temple marking the 1854 US-Japan treaty site, featuring a serene garden and unique Buddha statues.

3.9
(626 reviews)

"A historical landmark to mark Japan US trade treaty. This temple had a garden in front and a graveyard on the side."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll to Old Town

The temple path leads to Shimoda's charming old town, perfect for exploring after your visit. :walking:

🌧️ Visit on Rainy Days

The temple has a unique charm even in the rain, with beautiful raindrop reflections. :umbrella:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Treaty of Peace and Amity Site

Treaty of Peace and Amity Site

Temple Grounds

Stand where history was made, marking the signing of the pivotal 1854 US-Japan treaty.

Manifestations of Buddha Statues

Manifestations of Buddha Statues

Temple Grounds

Admire the unique line of Buddha statues, a distinctive feature noted by visitors.

Temple Garden

Temple Garden

Temple Entrance

Enjoy the peaceful garden at the temple's entrance, offering a moment of calm.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Peace

Ryosen-ji Temple is a serene spot, but can get busier during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to experience its tranquility with fewer crowds. Early mornings offer a particularly peaceful atmosphere.

Embrace the History

This temple is a significant historical site, marking the location where the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the U.S. and Japan was signed in 1854. Understanding this context enhances the visit, connecting you to a pivotal moment in Japanese-American relations.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather, beautiful scenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

203/500 - Shimoda Through the Lens 🇯🇵 - 山中 月詞 (Yamanaka Tsukishi) #travel #photography #portraitphotography #japan
@itsbleg
22.8K likes • 251.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll to Old Town

The temple path leads to Shimoda's charming old town, perfect for exploring after your visit. :walking:

🌧️ Visit on Rainy Days

The temple has a unique charm even in the rain, with beautiful raindrop reflections. :umbrella:

"Bowing man", un recopilatorio de las señales de seguridad en Japón por Yoshihiko Shimoda vía @outlandermagazine. A que no puedes verlo solo una vez? #UniversoPG ⬜ "Bowing man," a compilation of safety signs in Japan by Yoshihiko Shimoda via @outlandermagazine. Can you watch it just once? #UniversoPG
@purificaciongarcia
7.5K likes • 39.9K views
Visit Ryosenji Temple with us! Just a 20 minute bus away from Hiromi SPA Hotel, your stay with us will have an abundance of cultural experiences 🎏 Book a stay with us soon! #travel #japan #shimoda #visitjapan #traveltips #travelinspo #onsen #hotspring #hiromispahotel
hiromispahotel
6 likes • 281 views

🏛️ Explore Museum Nearby

The Museum of the Black Ship is right next door, offering more historical context. :museum:

🙏 Respectful Visit

Remember it's a place of worship; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. :pray:

Ryosenji Temple in the rain☔ 雨の了仙寺 #ryosenji #rain #raindrops #temple #izu #shimoda #shizuoka #japan #japantrip #了仙寺 #ジャスミン寺 #下田 #伊豆 #伊豆下田 #静岡 #観光旅行 #雨 #☔ #雨粒 #雨の散歩 #いいね伊豆
photosmilejp
240 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll to Old Town

The temple path leads to Shimoda's charming old town, perfect for exploring after your visit. :walking:

🌧️ Visit on Rainy Days

The temple has a unique charm even in the rain, with beautiful raindrop reflections. :umbrella:

🏛️ Explore Museum Nearby

The Museum of the Black Ship is right next door, offering more historical context. :museum:

🙏 Respectful Visit

Remember it's a place of worship; maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. :pray:

What Travellers Say

3.9
(626 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ryosen-ji Temple is recognized as a significant historical landmark, particularly for its role in the 1854 US-Japan treaty. Visitors appreciate its cultural richness, peaceful garden, and unique Buddha statues, noting its proximity to the Museum of the Black Ship and Shimoda's old town. While some find it simple, its historical importance and serene atmosphere are consistently highlighted.

"A historical landmark to mark Japan US trade treaty. This temple had a garden in front and a graveyard on the side. Quite rich culturally and Japanese history. Right next to the temple is Museum of the Black Ship, and the front walking path from the temple lead to old tourist town of Shimoda which is worth visiting."

TAHIR CHEEMA

"Very cool historical spot and temple!"

Noam Emerson-Fleming

"Lovely little temple in a very quiet area of Shimoda. Certainly not deserving of a 1 star! Check out the line of Manifestations of Buddha statues."

Jeff Clay

What People Like

Historical significance
Peaceful garden
Unique Buddha statues

What People Dislike

Can be simple

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ryosen-ji Temple is accessible by bus from Hiromi SPA Hotel, taking about 20 minutes.Instagram It's also a pleasant walk from the main tourist areas of Shimoda, leading you through historical streets.

Yes, the temple is a well-known historical landmark in Shimoda. Follow signs for historical sites, and you'll likely find it easily, especially as it's near other attractions.

While specific parking details aren't widely shared, many visitors arrive by bus or on foot. If driving, inquire locally about available parking options near the temple or in the town center.

From Shimoda Station, you can take a local bus or enjoy a walk. The walk is recommended if you have time, as it allows you to soak in the atmosphere of the old town.

The temple grounds have some uneven surfaces and stairs, typical of historical sites. It's advisable to check accessibility details beforehand if you have specific mobility concerns.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Ryosen-ji Temple itself is generally free, as it's a place of worship. However, any associated museums or special exhibits might have separate admission fees.

Temples in Japan typically open early and close around late afternoon. While specific hours for Ryosen-ji Temple aren't always listed, it's safe to assume it's open during daylight hours.

Most visitors report that the temple grounds are free to enter, allowing you to explore the garden and historical markers without charge.Reddit

While the temple grounds are generally accessible during daylight, it's best to visit during standard daytime hours to fully appreciate the site and its surroundings.

Information on specific ceremonies is not widely publicized online. For details on any ongoing events, it's best to check local listings or inquire upon arrival.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see the historical site of the US-Japan treaty signing, a peaceful garden, and a unique line of Buddha statues.Reddit The temple also has a graveyard on the side.

Yes, the temple offers a serene atmosphere and historical elements that are great for photography, especially with its garden and unique statues.TikTokInstagram

It's historically significant as the location where the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the U.S. and Japan was signed in 1854.Instagram

Adjacent to the temple is the Museum of the Black Ship, and the path leads to the old tourist town of Shimoda, which is worth exploring.Reddit

It's described as a lovely, simple, and traditional temple in a quiet area of Shimoda, offering a culturally rich experience.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historical treaty site, the serene temple garden, and the distinctive line of Buddha statues are popular photo opportunities.TikTokInstagram

Photography rules can vary. It's best to observe signage or ask temple staff if you're unsure about photographing inside any structures.

The tranquil setting and historical backdrop can make it a unique location for portraits, as seen in some travel photography.TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience.

Drone usage is generally restricted at religious sites and historical landmarks to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's advisable to avoid flying drones here.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ryosen-ji Temple offers a gentle introduction to Japanese history for families. While the historical treaty aspect might be more engaging for older children, the peaceful garden and the unique Buddha statues can capture younger imaginations.Reddit The adjacent Museum of the Black Ship provides interactive elements that can make history more accessible and fun for kids. Consider it a stop that combines a bit of learning with a calm, reflective experience.

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by Japanese history and international relations, Ryosen-ji Temple is a must-visit. It's not just a temple; it's the ground zero for the US-Japan Treaty of Peace and Amity.Instagram Explore the site, visit the nearby Museum of the Black Ship, and then wander through Shimoda's historic town to fully immerse yourself in this significant period. The temple's designation as a National Historic Site speaks volumes about its importance.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity for quiet reflection at Ryosen-ji Temple.Reddit It’s a place to connect with history at your own pace. The proximity to Shimoda's old town also makes it a great starting point for a day of exploration, allowing you to discover local charm and historical sites independently.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Historical Significance: A Turning Point

Ryosen-ji Temple holds immense historical weight as the site where the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the United States and Japan was signed in 1854.Instagram This pivotal agreement, facilitated by Commodore Matthew Perry's fleet, marked the end of Japan's centuries-long isolationist policy and opened the country to foreign trade and relations. The temple served as a crucial meeting point for negotiations, symbolizing a significant shift in global diplomacy and Japan's modern history.

Visitors can stand on the very grounds where this historic treaty was concluded, offering a tangible connection to a transformative moment. The temple's designation as a National Historic Site underscores its importance. Understanding this context enriches the visit, transforming it from a simple temple tour into an immersive historical experience. It's a place where you can feel the echoes of a nation opening its doors to the world.Reddit

Exploring the Temple Grounds and Surroundings

Beyond its historical significance, Ryosen-ji Temple offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience. The temple grounds feature a serene garden that provides a tranquil escape, perfect for quiet contemplation.Instagram A notable feature is the line of Manifestations of Buddha statues, a unique sight that many visitors find particularly interesting.Reddit The temple also includes a graveyard, adding to its solemn atmosphere.

Adjacent to Ryosen-ji Temple is the Museum of the Black Ship, which delves deeper into the history of Commodore Perry's arrival and the subsequent treaty.Reddit Following the path from the temple leads you to the old tourist town of Shimoda, a charming area with historical buildings and a distinct atmosphere that's well worth exploring.Reddit This combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and local charm makes Ryosen-ji Temple a central point for understanding Shimoda's past and present.

You may also like