Underground facilities in the former Kure Naval Base, Military underground tunnels in Kure, Japan
The underground facilities beneath Kure city comprise multiple levels connected by corridors and chambers that served naval operations and personnel shelter. The network includes rooms of varying sizes designed for different military purposes.
The Japanese Imperial Navy constructed these underground structures in April 1945 as part of their defense strategy against Allied forces. They were built during the final months of World War II when Japan's military situation was deteriorating.
The site holds recognition from the Japan Society of Civil Engineers as civil engineering heritage and demonstrates wartime construction methods. Visitors can observe how underground spaces were built to protect people and military assets during that era.
Advance arrangements through local tourism offices are necessary to explore these facilities with a guide. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for cool underground conditions with limited natural light.
The tunnel network includes specialized chambers that functioned as command centers and equipment storage during Pacific War operations. These underground positions held strategic importance for coordinating naval operations in the region.
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