noun
Perry Expedition (1853); arrival of the Black Ships
Refers specifically to the 1853 arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry's fleet, which forced Japan to open its ports. Used in historical contexts.
黒船来航は日本の開国に大きな影響を与えた。
The arrival of the Black Ships had a major impact on Japan's opening to the world.
Compound of 黒船 (black ships, referring to the steam-powered warships) and 来航 (arrival by ship). The term is historically tied to the Perry Expedition.