YCAPS is happy to announce a new initiative, Perry 175. Perry 175 is a campaign dedicated to remembering, celebrating, and reflecting on the 175th anniversary of Commodore Matthew Perry’s expedition to Japan.
The Perry Expedition was a turning point in global history, marking the moment when Japan ended more than two centuries of seclusion and began its rapid transformation into a
modern state. Commodore Matthew Perry’s mission opened Japan to international trade
and diplomacy. It also enabled the creation of the 1854 Treaty of Kanagawa, which laid the foundation for the enduring U.S.–Japan relationship that went on to develop into an Alliance that has persisted for more than 70 years.
2028 marks the 175th anniversary of Commodore Matthew Perry’s landing in Japan. Commemorating this anniversary creates space to reflect on the consequences of this encounter. Through lectures, cultural programs, exhibitions, and commemorative events from now through to the end of 2028, Perry 175 will provide opportunities to engage with the past while fostering dialogue on how historical experiences of diplomacy, exchange, and maritime engagement can continue to inform cooperation and mutual understanding today.
We invite partners and participants to join us in this multi-year journey of commemoration and
conversation. Together, we will ensure that Perry 175 serves as both a historical remembrance and a platform for building stronger ties for the future.
Find out more and keep updated on events at www.perry175.org