International Cemetery, Naha

Located within walking distance of Tomari port, the International Cemetery is a peaceful place near the hustle and bustle of the port, it is a place dedicated as the resting place of foreigners. As you walk among the crosses and the weather-worn memorials, you will notice a monument erected in honor of Commodore Perry. Perry was the Ambassador to the United States, sent to Japan in 1853 to form friendship relations between the two nations. He landed at Tomari Port before landing on mainland Japan, and later used it several times for official duties. Perry made great efforts to bring Americans and Okinawans together, and the small monument at the International Cemetery reminds of this fact.