This screen shows scenes from the arrival of Commodore Perry. (Photo courtesy of City of Yokosuka)
Construction of this steel manufacturing works was launched in 1865 under the supervision of the French naval engineer, Leonce Verny, for the purpose of supplying steel for shipbuilding. Adjacent to the steel works, a shipbuilding yard was constructed. In 1871, the construction of the first ship dock was completed, and began operation. Subsequently, the Yokosuka Steel Manufacturing works was renamed the Yokosuka Shipbuilding Yard.
The Japanese who received technical guidance from Verny and others went on to build numerous battle ships for the Japanese military after Verny returned to France. The Yokosuka Shipbuilding Yard became the springboard from where Japan developed its shipbuilding technology.
From 1884, Yokosuka became an important port for the Japanese navy, and till the end of World War II. Yokosuka served as the prime naval base. After the end of World War ?, starting from 1950, the naval port facilities were transformed for peace-time use, and Yokosuka took the first step towards rebuilding its port for non-military industrial activities. Over the years, Yokosuka has prospered on account of its commercial and industrial activities.
Yokosuka has historically been dependent on the sea. Today, its numerous natural beaches are a prime vacationing spot for its citizens.
Yokosuka is promoting many sea and ocean related activities. Taking advantage of its rich international and cultural heritage, Yokosuka is poised to become a city which can offer all the amenities and cultural richness of a truly international community, where people can interact and live in a secure and comfortable environment, and a city which is open to the sea and to the world.
A good example of the activities taking place in line with this policy is the construction of Shyonan International Village. In this vast area of 188 hectares, the International Convention Center complete with accommodation, a training center, the General Research Graduate School and University and many other facilities have been established. Since it started operating, many people have taken advantage of these facilities and it has become a very popular area.
In addition, taking full advantage of its strategic location at the entrance of Tokyo Bay, Yokosuka is vigorously upgrading its port so that it can become the product distribution center for the Tokyo Metropolitan area.
Shonan International Village(Photo courtesy of City of Yokosuka)
