Japanese Pagoda

Japanese Pagoda

NPS / Kelsey Graczyk

Quick Facts

Amenities

2 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Wheelchair Accessible

Dating to the 17th century, the Japanese pagoda is made of nine graduated, square slabs of granite stacked one on top of another. It symbolizes not only friendship, but also a traditional Japanese ideology. From top to bottom there is a symbolic representation of the sky, wind, fire, water and earth. The sculpture was a gift to the city of Washington, DC, by the Mayor Ryozo Hiranuma of Yokohama, Japan in 1957 and dedicated on April 18, 1958.

Inscriptions

Base, west side
Presented to the City of Washington from
Ryozo Hiranuma
Mayor of Yokohama
1957
Base, east side
May this pagoda symbolize the spirit of friendship between the United States of America and Japan manifested in the treaty of peace, amity and commerce signed at Yokohama on March 31, 1854, by the plenipotentiaries of the two countries.
 

Accessibility

Please be aware that the sidewalk positioned along the Tidal Basin does not have railings. Keep a fair distance away from the sidewalk's edge. If visitors would like to get closer to the pagoda, please be aware that the terrain changes from concrete to mud/grass. The viewing area is the same level as the sidewalk.