What to know
Shimoda Park (Shimoda Kōen) is a charming, wooded park perched on a hill near the center of Shimoda. Once the site of defensive fortifications, only ruins remain today. The park features the Monument to the Opening of US-Japan Diplomatic Relations, erected in 1957, and is famous for over a thousand hydrangeas (ajisai) that bloom throughout June. From the park's far side, you can preview the rugged coastline at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula.
Several entrances lead into Shimoda Park, including one at the eastern end of Perry Road and another near the Shimoda Aquarium. The main trail takes about 30–45 minutes to walk, winding through hydrangeas and past historic monuments. Side trails branch off to lookout points offering views over the city and along the coast.
The park is a 20-minute walk from Izukyu-Shimoda Station. Alternatively, take a bus from the station bound for the Shimoda Aquarium (Kaichū Suizokukan) and get off at Ryosenji Temple (200 yen one way, hourly), then walk 5–10 minutes to the park entrance. Or stay on the bus to the aquarium (about 7 minutes, 230 yen), from which the closest park entrance is just a few steps away.
How to get to and around Shimoda How to get to and around the Izu Peninsula
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Always open
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- Free
- English name
- Original name
- Shimoda Park
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.