Verny Park: A French Oasis in Yokosuka

Verny Park, originally opened in 1946 and revamped in 2001, provides visitors with an enchanting scene where soft landscaping meets the imposing forms of warships. The park is named in honor of Léonce Verny, a French naval engineer who played a crucial role in Japan's modernization by leading the construction of naval facilities in the late 1800s, including the Yokosuka Naval Arsenal. The park features over 1,700 roses of approximately 160 species, creating a vibrant display of colors and fragrances, especially during the spring and autumn blooming seasons. Visitors can stroll along the seaside boardwalk, part of the 10km Umikaze no Michi promenade, and enjoy views of Yokosuka Port, the U.S. Naval Base, and JMSDF Yokosuka District ships. Verny Park also houses the Verny Memorial Museum, which showcases information about Verny's engineering contributions and the history of the Yokosuka Iron Foundry. Another highlight is the Yokosuka Modern Heritage Museum Thibaudier Residence, a reconstruction of a French engineer's residence. The park further displays historical artifacts such as the 41-cm gun barrel from the battleship Mutsu and a large steam hammer imported from Holland in 1866.