Treaty of Shimoda

Quick Facts: Who was Treaty of Shimoda?

Subject:

Treaty of Shimoda

Known for:

First treaty between Russia and Japan, ending 220 years of national seclusion.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Treaty of Shimoda (Japanese: 下田条約, Hepburn: Shimoda Jouyaku), formally the Treaty of Commerce and Navigation between Japan and Russia (日露和親条約, Nichi-Ro Washin Jouyaku), was the first treaty between the Russian Empire and the Empire of Japan (then under the Tokugawa shogunate), signed on February 7, 1855. Signed shortly after the Convention of Kanagawa between Japan and the United States, it effectively meant the end of Japan's 220-year-old policy of national seclusion (sakoku) by opening the ports of Nagasaki, Shimoda and Hakodate to Russian vessels.

Career & Major Achievements

The treaty also established the position of Russian consuls in Japan and defined the borders between Japan and Russia. Since the beginning of the seventeenth century, the Tokugawa shogunate pursued a policy of isolating the country from outside influences.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Foreign trade was maintained only with the Dutch, Koreans, and the Chinese and was conducted exclusively at Nagasaki under a strict government monopoly. This policy had two main objectives.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1855: 1855 Milestone — The Treaty of Shimoda (Japanese: 下田条約, Hepburn: Shimoda Jouyaku), formally the Treaty of Commerce and Navigation between Japan and Russia (日露和親条約, Nichi-Ro Washin Jouyaku), was the first treaty between the Russian Empire and the Empire of Japan (then under the Tokugawa shogunate), signed on February 7, 1855.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Treaty of Shimoda

True or False: “The Treaty of Shimoda was the first treaty to open Japan's ports to foreign powers after its long period of national seclusion.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): The treaty was pivotal because it dismantled the two-century-old *sakoku* policy by establishing formal trade and consular presence.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Treaty of Shimoda