Naval Base
Kure, a historic naval port city in Hiroshima Prefecture, offers a rich maritime heritage. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Kure Museum, also known as the "Iron Whale Museum," features the decommissioned submarine Akishio, allowing visitors to explore its interior and learn about submarine operations and minesweeping activities. Although the main Yamato Museum is closed for renovations until spring 2026, a satellite exhibition at Viewport Kure showcases a full-scale model of the Zero Observation Plane and a 1:100 scale model of the battleship Yamato. The Irifuneyama Memorial Museum, housed in the former residence of the Kure Naval Station Commander-in-Chief, displays Meiji-era architecture and naval artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy close-up views of JMSDF submarines at Alley Karasukojima and take a Kure Bay Ship Tour to see active naval vessels and shipyards
