Townsend Harris and Zenpuku-ji Temple in Tokyo

Zenpuku-ji was founded in 824 and is the second oldest temple in Tokyo after Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Zenpuku-ji is in Minato Ward. In Suginami Ward, there is a pond named Zenpukuji-ike. That pond used to be in the precinct of Zenpuku-ji.Thus, Zenpuku-ji had a vast precinct.
 I have a reason why I introduce Zenpuku-ji here. It had been used as the American Legation from July in 1859 until May in 1863 after the Treaty of Amity and Commerce was signed on July 29,1858 at Ryozen-ji Temple in Shimoda.

Consulate General Townsend Harris was appointed as the first Minister; Consulate in Shimoda was closed. At the same time another consulate was opened at Hongaku-ji Temple in Kanagawa on the Independence Day of the United States of America.

Another monument to celebrate the centennial of the Japan-US Amity and Trade Treaty. 

Written and posted by Mitsutoshi Masunari on the 235th anniversary of the Independence of the USA.
Congratulations on their Independence.