Banzai Cliff, Historic cliff in Marpi Point, Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands.
Banzai Cliff is a coastal precipice at Marpi Point in northern Saipan, part of the Northern Mariana Islands. The limestone wall drops roughly 30 meters to the open sea and offers wide views over blue waters and rocky shoreline.
In July 1944, at the end of the Battle of Saipan, many Japanese civilians and soldiers jumped from this precipice into the sea. American troops were unable to reach most people in time or persuade them to surrender.
The site takes its name from a Japanese battle cry and draws visitors from Japan who often leave flowers and prayers. Several memorial plaques in different languages create a space for quiet reflection and remembrance.
A paved road leads to a parking area near the precipice, from which visitors continue on foot. Information panels in several languages explain the historical background and help orient visitors at the site.
In 1985, the precipice was included in a national historic district along with nearby landing beaches and military installations. The Pacific Ocean in front of the coast shows different shades of blue in calm weather, stretching across the reef.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
