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EXPEDITION TO JAPAN. 



prefecture of Kamo, one of the eight, into which Irlzu is divided, and occupies the southern 

 termination of that principality. The town is situated at the western end of the harbor, on a 

 plain at the opening of a fertile valley. Its name is probably derived from its low position, 

 Simoda, meaning Loio field. Through the valley a small stream, called Inodzu-Gawa, 

 flows, and empties at the town into the harbor. This river is navigable for the flat bottomed 

 boats, which are used by the inhabitants for transporting stone, timber, grain, and other 

 produce. 



The country surrounding the town is extremely picturesque and varied. Undulating hills, 

 covered with trees and verdure, rise from the water's edge and extend back into the lofty moun- 

 tains, rock-ribbed and bare. 



Valleys divide the mountain ranges, with their richly cultivated fields and gardens, stretching 

 up to the very summit of the hill sides. Streams of water, shaded with groves, wind through 

 the level bottoms, and beautify and enrich the land. The snow-capped Fusi is visible in the 

 distance, pointing its cone-like summit high into the clouds, and far above the elevation of the 

 blue mountains which surround it. On entering the harbor, the town, with its groups of low 

 houses, does not present a very imposing appearance, but, with its back ground of hills, wooded 

 with spreading pines and yew trees, and the verdant valleys which open between them, it has 

 an air of sheltered repose, and an appearance of secluded rusticity which are quite attractive. 



Landing Place at Simoda. 



Simoda is said to be the largest town in the principality of Idzu, and was at one time a mi. 

 of considerable importance. It was founded centuries ago, and some two hundred years since, 

 was the port of entry for vessels bound to the capital, but Uraga, further up the bay, having 



