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Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters, Tomigusuku

4.3
#2 of 20 in Things to do in Tomigusuku
Historic Site · Military Facility
Visitors to Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters will find many sad, poignant reminders of the terrible loss of life that took place here in Okinawa, and of the painful legacy of war. The naval base was established in 1944 using pickaxes and hoes, and was 450 m (1,476.3 ft) in length. In the post-war years, the site was left untouched until it was re-opened in 1970, after being renovated. At that time, the remains of around 2,400 people were recovered. Traverse the tunnels observing relics and artifacts, including a telegram from the forces' final commander Rear Admiral Minoru Ota, sent just days before he and 175 of his men committed "seppuku," a form of ritual suicide. Stories like this echo throughout the tight corridors, officer's rooms, code rooms, and staff room. Put Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters into our Tomigusuku trip itinerary maker site to see other points of interest to visit during your vacation in Tomigusuku.
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Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
405 reviews
Google
4.2
TripAdvisor
  • By Mooncake1969
    amazing how these guy dug this set of tunnels with only a axe. during the walk I noticed some tunnels don't have access. I hope one day they open those areas up. Nice little museum with some moving...  more »
  • By Malcolm_See
    Best way to go about this museum is to start at the exhibition area where there were some artifacts and facts on the naval division and the war. Then, you will enter the tunnel down to where used to.....  more »
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Google
  • By Kota
    Went because people told me it would be spooky - colloquially called the "suicide tunnels" by Americans. It's a museum with a gift shop, bathrooms, and wonderful park on top, and exhibits throughout the complex. If you're looking for a scare factor - it's not here.
  • By Peter Losi
    If you are interested in WWII history this is worth the stop. Signs are in both Japanese and English. You get a sense of the battle for Okinawa. Plan on 1-1.5 hours
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