Itokazu Abuchiragama
Step into a WWII field hospital cave, a poignant Okinawan relic where survivor descendants share harrowing tales of resilience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Itokazu Abuchiragama
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a WWII field hospital cave, a poignant Okinawan relic where survivor descendants share harrowing tales of resilience.
"Most unique and precious experience I had in Okinawa. "
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are mandatory for the guided tour. Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
💰 Yen Only Accepted
Bring Japanese Yen for entry and rentals. Credit cards are not accepted. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
WWII Field Hospital Cave
Inside the Itokazu Abuchiragama
Step back in time to a former Japanese Imperial Army field hospital. Experience the harrowing atmosphere of this WWII relic.
Survivor Descendant Stories
Itokazu Abuchiragama guided tour
Hear firsthand accounts from guides who are descendants of survivors. Their stories bring history to life with incredible depth.
The Dark & Humid Interior
Inside the Itokazu Abuchiragama
Feel the oppressive darkness, humidity, and heat that soldiers endured. A truly immersive historical experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations Are Key
Yen, Flashlights & Gloves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are mandatory for the guided tour. Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
💰 Yen Only Accepted
Bring Japanese Yen for entry and rentals. Credit cards are not accepted. :moneybag:
🔦 Rent a Flashlight
It's dark inside! Rent a flashlight or bring your own for better visibility. :flashlight:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable sneakers are a must for navigating the uneven cave floor. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Reservations are mandatory for the guided tour. Book in advance to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
💰 Yen Only Accepted
Bring Japanese Yen for entry and rentals. Credit cards are not accepted. :moneybag:
🔦 Rent a Flashlight
It's dark inside! Rent a flashlight or bring your own for better visibility. :flashlight:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable sneakers are a must for navigating the uneven cave floor. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Translator App Ready
Tours are in Japanese. Download an offline translator app for better understanding. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Itokazu Abuchiragama for its profound historical significance and the deeply moving personal stories shared by descendant guides. The immersive experience of the WWII field hospital cave is often described as unforgettable. However, the lack of English tours and the strict no-photography policy are noted drawbacks for some.
"Looked like a great place near Costco to have some fun. We went and only took yen,which was not a problem. My husband can speak Japanese which is great, but we did not have a reservation. Which appeal you need before. The tour will be about an hour and not in English. So that was a no for me. We just walk up to the castle next door. Which no one was at and had a lot of fun. So got there it’s free!"
Hannah Hubler
"The cave was used by the Japanese Imperial Army as a field hospital. It is necessary to make a reservation in order to visit the cave as it is on demand guided tour only. There are only Japanese language tour guides and no photo inside the cave is allowed. As there is no artificial light inside the cave, so bring a flash light or rent one from the ticket counter."
Clement Chan
"This was a neat place to stop and visit. We had a guide take us in the tunnel. It was neat to learn about what happened. They take yen only and if you don't bring gloves or a flashlight 🔦 you can rent one. Wear sneakers too."
Keri Carls
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Itokazu Abuchiragama is located in Okinawa. It's often visited in conjunction with nearby attractions like Costco. Public transport options might be limited, so consider a rental car or taxi for convenient access.
Yes, it's conveniently located near Costco, making it a good stop for those shopping or exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Advance reservations are required for the guided tour as it operates on demand. Walk-ins without a reservation may not be accommodated. :ticket:
Admission fees are typically paid in Japanese Yen. It's best to confirm the exact price when making your reservation, as it can vary. :yen:
Only Japanese Yen is accepted for admission and any rentals. Make sure to have cash on hand. :moneybag:
While not explicitly stated, the historical nature of the site might be more engaging for older children and adults. It's a solemn historical site.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the cave. This is to preserve the atmosphere and respect the historical significance of the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tour typically lasts about an hour, providing an in-depth look at the cave's history and significance.
No, the tours are conducted exclusively in Japanese. Visitors who don't speak Japanese are advised to use a translator app.
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes like sneakers are highly recommended due to the uneven terrain inside the cave. :athletic_shoe:
While you can rent a flashlight, bringing your own is a good idea. The cave is very dark, and a flashlight is essential for navigating. :flashlight:
This cave served as a crucial field hospital for the Japanese Imperial Army during WWII, sheltering civilians, students, and wounded soldiers. It's a poignant reminder of the war's impact on Okinawa.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Itokazu Abuchiragama. Visitors usually eat before or after their visit, perhaps near the nearby Costco.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is strictly forbidden inside the cave. This rule is in place to maintain the solemn atmosphere and historical integrity of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the overall tone of the visit; it's a place of remembrance and reflection. If your family enjoys historical sites and can appreciate the gravity of the past, Itokazu Abuchiragama can be a valuable addition to your Okinawa itinerary. It's a chance to learn about the human side of war and the importance of peace.
🏛️ History Buffs & WWII Enthusiasts
The immersive experience of being within the cave, feeling the oppressive environment, and understanding its strategic importance during the Battle of Okinawa, is something that textbooks cannot fully convey. It's a chance to connect with history on a deeply personal level and to honor the memory of those who lived and died within these walls. Prepare for a tour in Japanese and consider bringing a translator app to maximize your understanding of the detailed historical narratives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into WWII History
Many of the guides are descendants of survivors, adding an incredibly personal and moving dimension to the tour. Their ability to share firsthand accounts and family histories makes the experience deeply impactful. While the tours are conducted in Japanese, the passion and emotion of the guides often transcend language barriers. For those interested in WWII history and the Pacific theater, this site offers a unique and unforgettable perspective, emphasizing the human cost of conflict and the enduring desire for peace.
It's crucial to remember that this is a place of solemn remembrance. Visitors are asked to be respectful of the history and the stories shared. The no-photography rule inside the cave underscores the importance of experiencing the site with your senses and mind, rather than through a lens. This approach allows for a more profound connection to the past and a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities
When it comes to payment, be prepared to use Japanese Yen as only cash is accepted. This applies to both admission fees and any optional rentals, such as flashlights or gloves. Speaking of rentals, bringing your own flashlight is highly recommended, as the cave is very dark, and a personal light source can greatly enhance your experience. Similarly, gloves can add to comfort. For footwear, sturdy sneakers are a must, as the cave floor can be uneven and damp.
Since the tours are conducted in Japanese, having a translator app downloaded and ready on your phone is a wise precaution. While cell signal may be unreliable inside the cave, an offline translator can bridge the language gap. This preparation will allow you to fully appreciate the historical narratives and personal stories shared by the guides, making your visit to this significant Okinawan landmark as informative and impactful as possible.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit