The Izu-Shimoda Story

The Port Where Japan's Dawn Began: A Dramatic and Modern Musical Tale of Shimoda's Opening to the World!

"Step right up, and witness the opening of the gates of history!"
The dramatic history of Izu Shimoda-the very birthplace of modern Japan-comes to life in a brand-new style of musical entertainment, blending traditional Japanese storytelling ("Kodan") with a powerful, modern sound.
The song chronicles the turbulent events of the late Edo period. It begins with the sudden arrival of Commodore Perrys black ships shaking the peaceful port of Shimoda (Verse 1). At the heart of the song is the emotional encounter between Yoshida Shoin, a passionate young samurai who risked his life to sneak aboard the foreign ship at Benten Island, and Commodore Perry, who, though bound by diplomacy to refuse him, was deeply moved by the young man's courage to change his country's future (Verse 2 & 3). The tale continues with Townsend Harris raising the Stars and Stripes at Gyokusen-ji Temple, supported by the bittersweet story of Okichi, a local woman who helped navigate the clash of cultures (Verse 4).
With dramatic spoken-word narrations and a sweeping melody, this song feels like a cinematic journey through time. Complete with the festive energy of the Black Ship Festival (Kurofune Matsuri) and the traditional sharp clack of the "Hyoshigi" clappers at the finale, this historical epic connects the heritage of Shimoda to the world!