Point of interest: Practice Your Japanese in Shizuoka

As Japan's most iconic landmark, Mount Fuji draws a great deal of attraction to the Shizuoka Prefecture. Towering 3,776 meters high, Mount Fuji has been worshiped as a sacred mountain in Japan for centuries. While Mount Fuji is an active volcano, it has not erupted since 1707. Many climbers visit the mountain during the official climbing season in July and August.

The Izu Peninsula is home to hot springs and beautiful natural scenery. The many hot springs located on the peninsula support many popular resorts. Many popular hot springs resorts are located in Atami, Shuzenji, Ito, and Shimoda. With beautiful coastlines, plenty of beaches, and a mild climate, the Izu Peninsula receives many tourists each year. It is also a popular weekend getaway among many Japanese.

Shimoda is a beautiful coastal city located on the south side of the Izu Peninsula. While it serves as a popular resort destination for tourists looking to do partake in marine sports, going to beaches, and visiting hot springs, the city of Shimoda has a rich historical importance in Japan. In 1854, Shimoda became the first Japanese city to open international trade. The end of Japanese isolation came about following the treaty negotiated by Commodore Perry.

Commodore Perry, also known as Matthew Calbraith Perry, was an American naval officer who served between 1809 and 1858. He commanded many United States Navy ships during several wars. He is most remembered today for negotiating the treaty at the Convention of Kanagawa that opened up Japan for trading with the Western World in 1854. This was also the beginning of the diplomatic relationship between the United States and Japan.

If you're planning to visit the beautiful Shizuoka Prefecture, why not try to converse with the locals in their native tongue? Through Kanshudo, you will be able to learn Japanese vocabulary and grammar as well as the kanji (characters) used for writing. Through proven learning strategies, you will also be able to rise quickly in your abilities. Don't show up to the Shizuoka Prefecture unprepared! Take the tour to start your Japanese kanji experience.