Overview
Gyokusen-ji is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple in Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture. Its mountain name is Zuiryuzan and its principal image is Shakyamuni Buddha. It is renowned as the site of the first American consulate in Japan.
Highlights
- ●The temple that hosted the first American consulate in Japan
- ●Grounds designated a National Historic Site
- ●The Soto Zen temple Zuiryuzan Gyokusen-ji
- ●The Townsend Harris Museum
History
Gyokusen-ji is a Soto Zen temple said to have been founded in 1573. Known as the temple that served as the first American consulate in Japan, its grounds were designated a National Historic Site of Japan in 1951.
Access
The temple is located in Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture, a port town in the southern part of the Izu Peninsula. Please confirm detailed routes with maps or official information.
Best season
As a temple to savor for its history and quiet, the mild seasons of spring and autumn are especially pleasant for a visit on foot.
Map
34.6759, 138.9624 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Pay a visit at the main hall
- 2Explore the grounds designated a Historic Site
- 3Learn the history at the Townsend Harris Museum
- 4Continue on to the port town of Shimoda
Did you know?
💡 The grounds house the Townsend Harris Museum, named after the first American consul, Townsend Harris.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!