JMSDF Kure Museum (Tetsu no Kujira)

Overview

The JMSDF Kure Museum (nicknamed Tetsu no Kujira — Iron Whale) is a free naval museum in Kure featuring a full-size decommissioned Oyashio-class submarine that visitors can walk through.

Highlights

• Walk-Through Submarine: Explore the cramped interior of an actual submarine — the torpedo room, control room, and crew quarters.
• Mine Sweeping Exhibits: Detailed displays on Japan's post-war mine-clearing operations and maritime self-defense.
• Free Admission: Entirely free, making it an exceptional value for military history enthusiasts.

History

Opened in 2007 across from the Yamato Museum, the JMSDF Museum documents Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force history. The submarine SS-579 Akishio served from 1986 to 2004 before becoming the museum's centerpiece.

Visitor Tips

• Combine with Yamato: Visit both museums in one trip — they face each other across the street.
• Getting There: 30 minutes by JR from Hiroshima Station.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.