JMSDF Kure Museum (Tetsu no Kujira Kan)

Kaijō Jieitai Kure Shiryōkan (Tetsu no Kujirakan)

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The JMSDF Kure Museum in Kure City, where you can see a real submarine up close.

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National Treasure
Cultural Assets

Tourist destination images of JMSDF Kure Museum (Tetsu no Kujira Kan)(1)

Tourist destination images of JMSDF Kure Museum (Tetsu no Kujira Kan)(2)

HighlightsExplore the interior of the real submarine Akishio.
Learn about the mechanisms and history of mine sweeping.
Discover exhibits showcasing JMSDF activities and equipment.
View videos and models related to submarines.
Learn about the history of the JMSDF.

Basic Information

Address: 5-32 Takara-machi, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan Search for tourist attractions in Hiroshima

Access: Train: Approximately a 5-minute walk from Kure Station on the JR Kure Line via the pedestrian deck (passing through the inside of Yumetwon Kure and connecting to the JMSDF Kure Museum). Ferry: Approximately a 1-minute walk from Kure Central Pier. Car: From Okayama/Fukuyama: Sanyo Expressway Takaya Junction → Higashihiroshima Kure Expressway → Aga Interchange → National Route 185. From Yamaguchi/Hiroshima: Sanyo Expressway Hiroshima-Higashi Interchange → Hiroshima Expressway Line 1 → Hiroshima Expressway Line 2 → Hiroshima Kure Road. From Matsue/Miyoshi: Matsue Expressway Miyoshi-Higashi Junction → Onomichi Expressway Miruyasaka Interchange → Hiroshima Prefectural Route 61 Miyoshi Shobara Line → National Route 375 → Takaya Interchange → Higashihiroshima Kure Expressway → Aga Interchange → National Route 185. From Matsue Expressway Miyoshi-Higashi Junction → Chugoku Expressway Hiroshima-Kita Junction → Hiroshima Expressway Hiroshima Junction → Sanyo Expressway Hiroshima-Higashi Interchange → Hiroshima Expressway Line 1 → Hiroshima Expressway Line 2 → Hiroshima Kure Road. Show route

Op.Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Last entry 5:30 PM)

Cld.Days: Tuesday

Fee: Free

INFO: Photography inside the building is permitted for personal enjoyment. However, please be mindful of copyrights and portrait rights of exhibits and avoid disturbing other visitors. Tripods and flash photography are not allowed.

HP: https://www.jmsdf-kure-museum.go.jp/

Overview

The "Tetsu no Kujira Kan" (Iron Whale Museum) opened on April 5, 2007, to share the activities of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) with the public. A major feature is its unique display of an actual submarine outdoors. The submarine on display is the "Akishio" (SS-579), a Yūshio-class submarine that served in the JMSDF. After its decommissioning in March 2004, the Akishio underwent refurbishment, including internal equipment replacement and cleaning, for display purposes. As part of the exhibit, visitors can explore a section of the submarine's interior. While only the deck containing the command center is open to the public, the hull and fittings are protected for security reasons, and attendants monitor the area, allowing for a rare close-up view of a valuable submarine's interior. Beyond the Akishio, the museum features various exhibits, including those explaining the mechanisms and history of mine sweeping, and showcasing JMSDF activities and equipment. Models, videos, and historical documents provide in-depth insights into JMSDF operations. The museum also highlights the historical connection between Kure City and the JMSDF, offering a glimpse into the region's history and culture. The "Tetsu no Kujira Kan" is a fascinating facility that allows visitors to learn about JMSDF activities and history, as well as the history and culture of Kure City. Be sure to visit when you're in Kure!