Recommended for Battleship Enthusiasts! Four Special Spots in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture

Kure City in Hiroshima Prefecture faces the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and is a popular tourist destination. Many people may wish to visit this area at least once. Since the Meiji era, it has been a base for the navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. There have been many TV dramas and movies set in Kure, making it famous, such as "The Eternal Zero" and "Clouds Above the Slope." Perhaps some of you have wanted to visit Kure City after watching these dramas.

Kure has a long history of shipbuilding, making it an irresistible city for those interested in shipbuilding-related topics. You can also learn about the history of the navy here. If you are in Hiroshima Prefecture, Kure City is definitely worth a visit. Here, I would like to introduce four special spots in Kure City.

1. Thrilling Battleship Yamato! "Kure Maritime History Museum (Yamato Museum)"

The Kure Maritime History Museum (Yamato Museum) is a must-visit place for battleship enthusiasts. If you love battleships, be sure to stop by. Kure has long been active in the shipbuilding industry and was once a base for the navy, as well as being a current base for the Maritime Self-Defense Force.

One of the must-see attractions here is the giant model of the battleship Yamato. The actual battleship Yamato was about ten times the size of the model displayed here. Although it’s a scaled-down version, it is still quite realistic. There are also displays of submarines and other items that will excite you as you explore. Opportunities to see such realistic models are rare

There are also many exhibits about fighter planes that you should definitely check out. You will truly feel that these were used in past wars.

2. Feel the Retro Charm of the Military Port at "Alley Karasukojima"

Alley Karasukojima is one of the spots in Japan where you can see submarines up close. The park at the pier is also where Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarines dock. Here, you can also find an old navy crane.

Across from Alley Karasukojima used to be a naval factory. Some of the buildings remain today, showcasing retro brick architecture. This area was utilized as a military port from the Meiji era to the early Showa period, making it a valuable spot that retains the atmosphere of a bygone military harbor.

Even for those who aren't particularly interested in warships, the view from here is beautiful and recommended. This spot also allows you to learn about Japanese history, so if you have the chance, be sure to stop by.

3. A Historic Gateway to the Sea and Filming Location of the Movie "Umizaru": "Kure Central Pier Terminal"

Kure Central Pier Terminal is located next to the Yamato Museum, making it a great spot to visit alongside it. Kure is truly a military port town, where warships have been produced since the Meiji era. It still serves as one of the bases for the U.S. military and Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Currently, this area is utilized as a ferry terminal. Taking a ferry to Etajima or Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture is also a good option. You may know of the movie "Umizaru," and this location was one of its filming sites, making it a must-visit for fans.

The surrounding area features several historical spots related to the old navy. Many valuable exhibits remain, so be sure to explore. Some are actual artifacts, adding to the impressive atmosphere. Recently, many guests from overseas have also been visiting. As peace is being re-evaluated, this spot is gaining attention as a tourist destination.

4. Find Your Favorite Brush at "Fudenosato Kobo"

Let’s move a little away from Kure City to Aki District, Kumano Town.

Fudenosato Kobo is a recommended spot for those interested in calligraphy. You may have heard of Kumano brushes before. This place is essentially a museum dedicated to Kumano brushes. Approximately 80% of domestically produced calligraphy brushes come from Kumano Town, so it's not an exaggeration to say that most brushes available in Japan are made here.

At Fudenosato Kobo, you can learn about the history of brushes and how they are made, which is quite fascinating. They also sell actual brushes, so why not purchase one? This is a great spot for those engaged in calligraphy. For women, it would also be a good idea to procure your preferred brushes for makeup here.

◎ Let’s Walk Around Kure City, the Setting for "In This Corner of the World"

Kure is a place filled with attractions, including battleships and many other points of interest. For those wanting to learn about pre-war history or who are fans of warships, this is a must-visit spot. Kure still has exhibits that have been around since before the war.

These valuable exhibits are something you should definitely see at least once. The Yamato Museum's battleship Yamato is also highly recommended. With so many sights to see, it can be overwhelming, so I recommend doing some research in advance to make the most of your visit.