okinawa battlefield tours

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• 8-Hour Okinawa Tour: The Final Great Battle of World War II

8-Hour Okinawa Tour: The Final Great Battle Of World War II

Tour Category

Private Tour

Nature, Trekking, History

Activity Level

Description

Embark on an 8-hour tour exploring critical sites of the Battle of Okinawa! Visit Hacksaw Ridge, Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters, and memorials like Lieutenant General Buckner's Monument and the Himeyuri Student Nurse Monument. Then, explore the Okinawa Prefecture Peace Memorial Museum and Peace Memorial Park, gaining profound insights into this historic conflict. After that, Wear slip-resistant shoes for a short hike on Hacksaw Ridge. The tour wraps up as it provides a concise and impactful exploration of the Battle of Okinawa.

Hike to Hacksaw Ridge and gain insights into the Battle of Okinawa

Explore remnants crucial to the Battle of Okinawa

Pay respects at the monument honouring General Buckner's sacrifice during the Okinawa campaign

Visit the Tomori Stone Lions, symbols of Okinawa's resilience and survivors of the Battle of Okinawa

Itinerary Expand All Collapse All

• Meet your tour guide and depart from the port/airport/hotel. 
• Embark on a short hike to Maeda Kochi (Hacksaw Ridge). Please be informed that you should wear sports or walking shoes with a slip-resistant outsole. Especially some parts of Hacksaw Ridge are Ryukyu limestone, which is slippery.
• Enter the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters.
• Have lunch at a local cuisine restaurant.
• Visit the Memorial Monument of Lieutenant General Buckner, the commanding general of the U. S. 10th Army during the campaign on Okinawa, who was killed on this spot on June 18, 1945, at the Battle of Okinawa.
• Head to Tomori Stone Lions on the top of a hill, one of the Battle's best-known survivors.
• Visit the Himeyuri Student Nurse Monument, dedicated to female high school students who worked in field hospitals and perished their lives.  Enter Okinawa Prefecture Peace Memorial Museum
• Walk around Okinawa Prefecture Peace Memorial Park to observe the Cornerstone of Peace and Flame of Peace.

What's Included

• Guiding services
• English maps

What's Excluded

• 600 yen per adult: Admission Fee for The Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters
• 450 yen per adult: Admission Fee for Himeyuri peace memorial museum
• Personal shopping
• Transportation
• Clean, spacious, comfortable Toyota Alfard with A/C (3 to 4 travellers):26,000 yen for 8 hours with a driver
• Clean, spacious, comfortable TOYOTA Crown with A/C (1 to 2 travellers): 23,000 yen for 8 hours with a driver
• Clean, spacious, comfortable TOYOTA Hi-Ace with A/C (5 to 8 travellers): 32,000 yen for 8 hours with a driver This is an additional service and the cost of the vehicle is not included in the tour price and needs to be paid in cash on the spot  

What to bring

• Sport or walking shoes with a slip-resistant outsole

Know before you go

• Please be informed that you wear sports or walking shoes with a slip-resistant outsole. Especially some parts of Hacksaw Ridge are Ryukyu limestone, which is slippery.

Cancellation Policy

No refund in case of any cancellation.

Price Details

Please select a date to proceed!

Okinawa Battle Sites Tour

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• Indiana Jones Trail, Okinawa
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• Okinawa Night Hike, Photographing Wildlife
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The Battle of Okinawa took place on the island of Okinawa between US forces and the Imperial Japanese Army beginning April 1st 1945 lasting until June 22nd 1945. The Battle of Okinawa was the bloodiest battle for the fight in the Pacific War where upwards to 12,000 Americans and over 100,000 Japanese lost their lives. Another 100,000+ citizens lost their lives on the Island by either being killed in combat or death by suicide. The US invasion of Okinawa was part of Operation Iceberg. The goal of this operation was to seize and control the Ryukyu Islands before pushing upward toward Mainland Japan.

On April 1st, the American troops set foot on the beaches of Okinawa, surprisingly with little to no resistance. The majority of the Japanese Imperial Army were waiting in southern Okinawa at an area known as the Shuri Defense Line .

April 26th was when the American troops arrived at The Maeda Escarpment otherwise known as Hacksaw Ridge . Hacksaw Ridge is a 400 ft. cliff that the Japanese used as a stronghold to hold off the American troops. The Japanese Army utilized the terrain here to construct underground tunnels and bunkers. Because of this and the terrain, the American Troops were forced to scale the cliff to attack the enemy. The battle at Hacksaw Ridge lasted eleven days before the US Troops eventfully took over. There were several more battles after Hacksaw Ridge, but on June 22nd 1945 General Ushijima and his Chief of Staff General Cho performed a ritual suicide which ultimately led to the end of the Battle of Okinawa. 

Table of Contents

The tour company on Camp Foster offers an Okinawa Battle Sites Tour a few times a month. I understand, not everyone traveling to Okinawa has access to the bases, but I am sure there are similar Battle Site Tours offered by companies outside the military bases. In reality, we could have visited all the sites offered by the tour by ourselves, but I figured we would learn a lot more by taking the tour and hearing it from someone that actually knows their Okinawan history. 

The Okinawa Battle Sites Tour was an all day event and visited four sites around southern Okinawa. The four locations included in this particular tour included a visit to Hacksaw Ridge , The Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters , the Battle of Okinawa Historical Society Museum at Camp Kinser, and the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum and Park . 

Hacksaw Ridge

I’ll be honest, I’ve never heard of Hacksaw Ridge until my favorite director and actor Mel Gibson made a movie about it. Even then, I thought it was a great movie but never paid attention to the location or where it took place. In fact, I had no clue it was in Okinawa until I saw it on the tour pamphlet. Come to find out it’s only 15.5 kilometers (9.6 miles) from where I currently live. Because I knew the name based on the movie, I was very much looking forward to coming here on the tour and see the actual site. 

The movie focused primarily on the war hero  Desmond Doss . Doss was a combat medic and Seventh Day Adventist Christian who refused to carry a firearm in to battle. Doss was awarded several medals including the Medal of Honor for his bravery. Doss saved between 50-100 wounded soldiers, putting his life at risk on numerous occasions. He was wounded four times to include being shot by a sniper bullet in the arm and getting shrapnel lodged in his body after stepping on a grenade. To this day he is the only Conscientious Objector. I had to look that one up but it is someone who refuses to perform military service. He left Okinawa on May 21, 1945. In 2003, he made an appearance in Okinawa, our tour guide actually met him. Today on Hacksaw Ridge the rock still remains that he used to lower wounded soldiers to safety. We know this because he actually pointed it out when he was here. Desmond Doss died March 23, 2006.

Today, Hacksaw Ridge is a nice expansive park with playgrounds, walking trails, castle ruins, and a royal mausoleum. The Urasoe Joseki Castle Ruins are the remnants of a castle here from the 13th century. The castle was burned down in 1609 by the Satsuma Domain. The ruins were then used by the Japanese as protection during the war. Another well known site within the park is the Urasoe Youdore constructed in 1261. According to online sources, there are three royal mausoleums in the Ryukyu Kingdom and this was one of them. This mausoleum is the final resting place for three rulers and one king of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The mausoleum was heavily damaged during the war but has gone through restoration processes to restore it.

Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters

At the time, this was not included in the tour I was on because COVID-19 restricted large groups, so I visited this historical site on my own. 

The Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters is open to visitors. There is no need to make a reservations for visiting. During opening hours, visitors can come here, visit the museum, and walk around the underground tunnel complex.

In 1944, thousands of men put in very hard work to dig out the Navy Underground Headquarters. The tunnel is about 20 meters deep and there are about 450 meters of tunnels with a few entrances/exits. During the war, the tunnels were large enough to house around 4,000 soldiers. 

Rear Admiral Ota Minoru was the Commanding Officer of the Japanese forces in Okinawa and used the Underground Headquarters to send a telegraph to the Navy Vice Admiral in Tokyo basically saying that the people of Okinawa fought their hearts out. US forces stormed the island and Rear Admiral Ota knew that they would be defeated. Rear Admiral Ota and six other officers committed suicide in the Underground Headquarters on June 13, 1945. 

Today, visitors can explore the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters. The entrance to the tunnels begins with walking down 105 stairs. There are several pathways to walk around, there are arrows guiding visitors on the recommended route. On the tour, you can visit the Staff Officer’s Room. The walls of the room are covered in holes from a grenade that was used by the officers when they decided to end their lives. Visitors can also see other rooms throughout the tunnels to include the Petty officer’s room, medical room, generator rooms, and the Commanding Officer’s room. 

Battle of Okinawa Historical Society Museum

The next stop on the Okinawa Battle Sites Tour was to the Battle of Okinawa Historical Society Museum located on Camp Kinser. The museum is on a military base so not everyone can access it. But if anyone does have access, you would have to make an appointment to view the museum or join one of the tours.

The museum is operated by volunteers and all of the items on display (photos, artifacts, memorabilia) are donated by collectors, locals, and veterans. Many of the artifacts have been found during construction projects or items washed up ashore and donated to the museum. The museum is divided showing sections of the Marine Corps, Army, and Navy, there is even a section dedicated to Japan. For being a small museum, I felt it had a lot of interesting artifacts and detailed articles. The museum had old newspapers and magazine articles covering the war, soldier uniforms, and a vast collection of weapons. 

Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum

The Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum was the last stop of the tour. The Peace Memorial Museum is located at the southern tip of the island and is the main memorial for all the victims of the Battle of Okinawa . 

Unfortunately, for this tour we only had about an hour here which is not nearly enough time to cover the entire park and museum. We had just enough time to walk the perimeter and visit some of the observatory decks. But there is a lot to this park and I would say 6 hours is needed here to fully explore the park and museum. 

One of the more recognizable monuments here at the park is the Cornerstone of Peace . Like the Vietnam Memorial in D.C., this memorial is made up of large stones with names of the fallen etched in them. There are over 240,000 names etched in the stones to include all nationalities. 

After visiting the Cornerstone of Peace, we walked this beautiful sidewalk with memorials that were donated from each Japanese Prefecture. We didn’t have time to view each memorial, but everyone we walked by was absolutely beautiful. The grounds at the Peace Park are kept in immaculate condition. 

Although we didn’t have much time to explore the park, I am glad we managed to stop here and see a few memorials within the park. We definitely plan on coming back at some point on our own. Next time we visit the Peace Memorial Park we will check out the museum and take our time viewing the memorials.

Update – On February 19, 2022, I visited the museum during a rainy weekend. The museum was impressive and full of information related to the war. The museum didn’t take sides or point fingers. Instead, it provided first hand accounts from the war and showed how everyone on the island was affected by it. The museum had amazing displays and very sad stories and graphic images. 

There was a room with personal testimonies from civilians that were on Okinawa during the war. There were several prints to read in both English and Japanese. I spent about a half hour reading these testimonies and they were gut wrenching. Many of the stories were told by children and young adults as they tell their stories of the horrors they witnessed. I could have spent hours going through the hundreds of stories. 

Below is a photo I took from an observation deck near the Cornerstone of Peace area. The whole coastline at the Peace Park is just gorgeous!

Location Information

Hacksaw Ridge in Urasoe Daikoen Park

Address: 2 Chome-53 Nakama, Urasoe, Okinawa 901-2103

Admission : Free

Hours of Operation: Every Day from 0900 to 2100. 

Address: 236 Tomigusuku, Okinawa 901-0241

Admission : ¥450 per person

Hours of Operation: Daily from 0830 to 1700

Address: 444 Mabuni, Itoman, Okinawa 901-0333

Admission : ¥300 for Adults, ¥150 for Children

Hours of Operation: Park is open 24 hours. Museum is open daily from 0900 to 1700.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide: War Tour of Okinawa

For the Japanese, Okinawa is the perfect opportunity to escape the rat race and indulge in some relaxation in a tropical haven. The appeal extends to foreigners worldwide who come for the serene nature, the abundant sea life, the sweltering beaches and turquoise oceans. However, there’s much more that lies beneath the surface. Okinawa has a rich and staggering history across many centuries. Not only was the island home to an ancient kingdom memorialised in the form of ruins and a scattering of tombs, but a more recent horrifying past. The island played host to the  bloodiest and most ferocious battles of the Pacific War. Okinawa stood as the last remaining obstacle before the Allies could advance to the mainland of Japan. As such, the war on Okinawa was fierce and unrelenting.

Scattered throughout the island are harsh reminders of the war. In modern times they’re the extensive number of American military bases, where the past is represented by monuments and artefacts that remain practically untouched since the end of the war. For some, the opportunity to explore sites that once played a significant role in some of the most devastating moments in human history is an awe-inspiring experience. A unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of warriors, and touch the same blood-soaked stones as they did.

This article may contain affiliate links which I may be compensated for at no extra cost to you dear readers!

Table of Contents

Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters

The many hundreds of meters of interconnected corridors and rooms that served the Japanese Navy played a vital role in the nation’s war effort. The headquarters was constructed to over-watch the strategically important airport and provided a secure location for the Navy’s high-ranking officials to command from. The tunnels were once home to thousands of soldiers, though many would never leave. Up to 4,000 lives were lost here, many of which were by their own hands as the Japanese neared defeat.

One of the most fascinating rooms in the whole complex of tunnels is the main command room. The walls have significant damage in the form of small holes and scuffs. Their significance only becomes clear from the small sign hanging on the wall. This is where on the 13th of June 1945, commander Minoru Oota sent a telegram to his superiors declaring the war on Okinawa had been unsuccessful, though the island’s citizens should be commended for their bravery. Shortly after, commander Oota committed suicide by detonating a grenade in his hands, which riddled the surrounding walls with shrapnel. That brought the war on Okinawa to a swift end.

1,000 Man Cave

Visitors to the little island of Ie Shima on the northwest of Okinawa will find little more than a small community of farmers, though the small contingent of US Marines should be an unwelcome reminder of the island’s past. This tiny island was unfortunately home to some of the most fierce battles of the Pacific War. Many of the island’s residents had nowhere to escape the carnage. Their only option was to take shelter in an enormous cave on the southern end of the island.

The enormous cavern known as 1,000 Man Cave became home for the locals on the island for an entire three months as the fighting continued around them. The cave’s residents had to deal with the harshest of conditions. Coral rock walls and the consistent movement of the tides deeper into the cave made for a difficult experience.

Hacksaw Ridge

Though the entire island of Okinawa is essentially a battleground, some sites hold more significance than others. The Japanese headquarters was stationed just south of Maeda Ridge, otherwise known by the American military as Hacksaw Ridge. The Americans had no choice but to scale the near-vertical limestone cliff to reach the headquarters and ultimately win the battle. Thus, it was the site of one of the bloodiest and most ferocious battles of the entire Pacific War.

Many tales originate from this battleground, one of which became the focus of a recent Hollywood adaptation. That’s the story of Desmond Doss, an American soldier and a non-combatant by his religious beliefs. He faced one of the bloodiest battles in history without a weapon in his hand. Despite the clear disadvantage, that didn’t prevent him from saving between 50-100 men from both sides by carrying them to safety.

Today it’s hard to believe the devastation that took place here. The cliff-edge now has a thick cover of foliage that has grown unhindered since the end of the war. Amazingly, the devastation of the war is not the only historical relevance the area has. Just to the left of the ridge stand the reconstructed ruins of Urasoe Castle. The site functioned as the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom that once ruled the island. Along with a number of tomb complexes, Hacksaw Ridge is positively oozing with historical relevance.

Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Park

The Peace Memorial Park is a site with a collection of memorials to the ravages of the war in Okinawa. A stark reminder as to why such a disaster should never occur again. The park’s main attraction is the Peace Memorial Museum, housing several exhibits detailing the build-up to the war, the war itself and its aftermath.

Closer towards the cliff’s edge is the “ Cornerstone of Peace “; a collection of gravestones engraved with the names of each victim of the war in Okinawa. They include the names of both military and civilians, with nationalities extending to Koreans, Taiwanese and even Britons. Nearby is also a collection of enormous monuments from each of the 46 prefectures across Japan. Some commanding an enormously large area and excessive grandeur. The perimeter of the park also has a number of cave entrances which the military would use to launch attacks and survey the coast.

Todoroki Cave

Okinawa has an extraordinary number of cave systems, many having served as headquarters and avenues of attacks by the Japanese military against the invading Americans. The island’s inhabitants would also use them to shelter from the destruction. These days, a few caves have become part of regular tours, turning into another basic user-friendly experience. However, some remain untouched and hidden from the public, providing a completely organic experience.

Todoroki Cave was originally used by sheltering civilians, though as the war came to an end and the defeat of Okinawa neared, the military also began taking shelter. Food and supplies ran short as the excess of people began dying of starvation. Once discovered, the Americans began throwing in grenades and petrol bombs to flush the inhabitants out. The most horrific tale is that of a crying baby being strangled to death from fear it would alert their position.

Coming with a torch is vital to see in the total darkness. Only then will you be able to see the incredible formations and the huge number of stalactites hanging from above. The most fascinating aspect of the cave is the number of shrines which would have been used by the cave’s former inhabitants. It provides a shocking reminder of the role it once played.

The cave is well-hidden and completely isolated. Concrete stairs and metal railings lead into a collapsed cavern to a point where the path vanishes. The entrance to the cave is a pitch-black hole about 1/3 the size of a regular door. Visitors must slide in feet first before crawling on hands and knees to enter the cavern. Due to the complete lack of people and safety measures, you should go with a guide, though not necessary.

Observation Post

On the outskirts of Nakagusuku Village, a location once regarded by the ancient Ryukyu Government as a place of worship stands the remains of a Japanese observation post. The point is known as 161.8, referring to its position above sea level. The stone observation post has an open view overlooking central Okinawa and outwards towards the ocean, playing a vital role during the war on Okinawa. It gives another unique outlook on how the war was fought, and the extent of the Japanese military’s defences. The observation post comes equipped with defence trenches and even connects to yet another cave system underneath.

Himeyuri Peace Museum

This museum is a dedication to 240 female students and teachers from the Okinawa Normal School and Okinawa First Girls’ High School that were inducted into the Okinawa Army Field Hospital during the war. The students aged between 17-18 worked in appalling conditions around the clock. Their base was within a cave network which is located just in front of the museum. They were tasked with endlessly caring for the injured and burying of the dead, all while withstanding constant bombardment and gunfire.

On June 18, 1945, the students were dismissed from their position, though their problems were far from over. They had nowhere to escape as the Americans continued their assault on the island. Many were killed in the ensuing battles, while others trapped within the cave were killed by poison gas attacks. Other students decided to end their own lives before having to face the Americans. Of the 240 students and teachers conscripted into the war on Okinawa, 227 died.

Ernie Pyle Monument

On April 16th, 1945, roughly 6,000 men and women lost their lives that took place on Ie Island. Some of those that fought were simply volunteers from the island wishing to defend their homes. One of the victims of the battle was the front-line correspondent, Ernie Pyle. His brutally honest depictions of life on the battlefield and the hardships of the American troops brought him to national recognition. A few minutes away from the island’s main port at his original burial site stands the Ernie Pyle Memorial. Annually the Okinawa American Legion and the stationed Marines hold a memorial service.

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Battle of Okinawa [Battlefield Tour] Tour of 5 Okinawa Battlefield National Parks and Battlefields, including Gama Irrigation. From one person. A young guide will guide you! About 15 minutes from the Himeyuri Peace Museum. のプランページは現在予約できません。

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War Memorials

Near the end of World War Two , Okinawa Honto became the site of one of the war's bloodiest battles, when the US forces invaded and occupied the island. An estimated 200,000 people, including more than 100,000 civilians and 12,500 Americans were killed in the battle, which lasted from April to June 1945.

The devastating effects of the war had a profound impact on the Okinawans, and there are a number of monuments and museums relating to the period throughout Okinawa Honto. The worst fighting of the battle took place in the south, and that is where some of the larger monuments have been constructed.

The main memorial to the Battle of Okinawa is the Peace Memorial Park , which is located near the southern tip of the island. Its main attraction is the Peace Memorial Museum, which gives a sobering overview of the lead up to the battle, the battle itself and the reconstruction.

Other monuments in the park include the "Cornerstone of Peace", a collection of large stone plates with the names of all fallen soldiers and civilians, including Koreans, Taiwanese, Americans and Britons. There is also an area with memorials donated by each of Japan's 46 other prefectures .

A few kilometers west of the Peace Park stands the Himeyuri Monument (Himeyuri no To) with an adjacent museum. It commemorates the fate of female high school students, who worked in army field hospitals in caves under horrendous conditions. Most of them did not survive the war.

Another thought-provoking, war-related site is the Former Navy Underground Headquarters , which consists of several hundred meters of underground corridors and rooms that served as the Japanese navy's headquarters during the war. Many sailors committed suicide in these tunnels, after their situation had grown hopeless towards the end of the battle. Visitors can see in one area a room whose walls have been riddled with shrapnel from a grenade.

Getting there and around

Peace memorial park.

Take bus number 89 from Naha Bus Terminal to Itoman Bus Terminal (�����o�X�^�[�~�i��, 60 minutes, 590 yen, every 10-15 minutes), transfer to bus number 82 and get off at Heiwakinendō-iriguchi (���a�F�O������, 20 minutes, 480 yen, 1 bus/hour). By car , it takes about 50 minutes from central Naha.

Himeyuri Monument

Take bus number 89 from Naha Bus Terminal to Itoman Terminal (�����o�X�^�[�~�i��, 60 minutes, 590 yen, departures every 10-15 minutes), transfer to bus number 82 and get off at Himeyuri-no-tō-mae (�Ђ߂��̓��O, 20 minutes, 330 yen, 1 bus/hour). By car , it takes about 45 minutes from central Naha.

Former Navy Underground Headquarters

From the Naha Bus Terminal/Asahibashi, take bus number 55 or 98 to Tomigusuku Minami (�Ƃ݂�������, 15 minutes, 260 yen, 3-5 buses/hour) from where the Former Navy Underground Headquarters are a ten minute walk up the hill. By car , they can be reached in about 10-15 minutes from central Naha or Naha Airport.

How to get to and around Okinawa Honto

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Peace memorial museum, typical visit duration, himeyuri monument and himeyuri peace museum.

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WAR HISTORIAN BATTLEFIELD EXPEDITIONS

For a new breed of war heritage traveler.

Pacific War & Indochina Wars battlefield expeditions for a new breed of war heritage traveler!

WAR HISTORIAN BATTLEFIELD EXPEDITIONS (WHBE) leads specialist expert-led expeditions to 20th century battlefields in the Pacific and Asia. WHBE specializes in:

• Pacific War (WW2 Pacific & Asia)
• First Indochina War (French War)
• Second Indochina War (Vietnam War)

We travel to some of the most historically significant, yet remote, and less traveled battlefields of the 20th century.

From lush tropical islands in the South Pacific to sweltering triple canopy jungle in Southeast Asia, WHBE takes you off the beaten path to some of the most remote and less traveled battlefields of the 20th century. We take you to the invasion beaches, put you in the foxholes, examine the relics of war, and hump through jungle in order to experience military history from a unique "boots-on-the-ground" experiential perspective that just cannot be obtained any other way than by being there and walking the original battlegrounds. Visiting these places is more than just sightseeing. When you experience firsthand the rugged hills, the dense fetid jungle and tropical climate of these battlefields, history comes alive. On our expeditions you will also experience the culture, customs, sights and sounds of the beautiful and vibrant countries we visit. Battlefield expeditions for a new breed of war heritage traveler and those who truly want to experience military history and walk the ground where battles were won, lost, and history made. It’s one thing to read the books, but quite another to actually walk in the footsteps of history!

WHBE regularly operates expeditions to Solomon Islands ( Guadalcanal , New Georgia , as well as other WW2 heritage-rich locales in the Solomons), Okinawa , Vietnam , and other destinations in the Pacific and Asia.

The founder of WHBE is the grandson of a US Army combat infantry veteran of the Pacific War. He first visited the battlefields of the Pacific War in 2010 when he traveled to Okinawa for the 65th anniversary of the battle to follow in the footsteps of his then recently deceased grandfather.

Travel with us to remote battlefields where history was made!

Contact: [email protected]

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Tour of the Okinawa Battle WW2 and... - Japanguide Junko

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• Japanguide Junko

Amazing guide!!! Highly recommended!!! We spent 2 days with Junko while visiting Okinawa in October... read more

Junko is the most amazing guide in Okinawa. I am a travel agent based in Sydney Australia and have... read more

Tour of the Okinawa Battle WW2 and history

Junko was a perfect host. Very pleasant, informative and a wonderful host. I learnt so much more abouth the American invasion of Okinawa and the effects both prior to it and the aftermath as well as how it has shaped Okinawa's history since. There were many heart fely moments as the Japanese perspective was discussed and learnt. A great way to have a more complete understanding. We also had an amazing meal in a true traditional Japanese resurant (one of the only surviving buildings that remain from the Battle for Okinawa. It was amazing and Junko's food recomendations were spot on. I can only give Junko a 5 star rating however she deserves a ten. Thank you Junko and i hope to return and experience more of your wonderful country. Regards, Vince

Hello Vince, It was pleasure meeting you and thank you for your time to leave a review for me. I must say... Battle of Okinawa isn't the subject I am good at explaining, I kept thinking there was a better way to tell you mote... However, we welcome people who are willing to learn about this tragedy so we won't make same mistake. When you come to visit Japan next time, I would like to introduce how we enjoy Onsen/hot spa and other Japanese cuisine. Till then, let's keep in touch. Junko

our family of 6 (including a 15 month old infant) had a wonderful time in Okinawa because of Junko’s customized itinerary for us and her great recommendations. My family went to Okinawa without much planning or research because I don’t really enjoy planning plus I found that I could only get limited information on Okinawa. I specified that my family likes nature, cooking and trying local foods. Plus we also needed to include some play time for the kids. She designed an itinerary for us and was very accommodating in modifying it based on my feedback. Junko brought us to places that only locals will know about. We went to a quiet fun beach to beachcomb (there were maybe 4 other families/couples there during the 2 hours we were there). Another day we hiked to a waterfall and swam in the waters there and hiked down the stream. We were the only family there during the 2.5 hours were spent there. These places were in pretty remote locations and we definitely would not have known about them if not for Junko. Another day we went to a really kid friendly play area with a giant 3 story play structure, a splash park and an indoor playground for kids under 3 years old. Perfect for my family. We went for some cooking experiences too and also took a boat out to see to look at corals. We tried lots of local foods thruout the day. The restaurants and cafes she brought us too were all quaint local spots with delicious food. Junko was really good at telling us about the local culture and history too. She also was helpful with the kids - always looking out for their needs too. On the final day when she dropped us off at Naha, she was very kind and stayed on till pretty late and told us about the places we could visit the next day. Overall, we had a really wonderful time and it wouldn’t have been possible without her.

Dear Ahcci13, Thank you so much for writing the lenthly review!! I was so moved because I am well-aware that spending time in front of computer for the mother of 3 small children isn't easy task, to say least... Hearing a responce like this one motivates me, keeps me continuing to spend much time before the guests arrive. I also had a great time with your wonderful family, thank you for taking me as a part of your family vacation. Thinking back how much your eldery boy liked Okinawa's soul food, Pork Tamago Onigiri, I am going to make it for my family tonight! Junko

I had the benefit of having Junko san as a guide for 2 days in May. On the first day we covered Chiyoda ku, the Imperial Palace an Taito.Junko showed me places which I never knew existed and gave me a unique insight into traditional Japan.On the srcondvday, we covered Kamamakura and Enoshima. We visited a number of beautiful shrines, temples and traditional craft stores. To sum up, I found Junko san very friendly, knowledgable and both terrific as a guide and as a person. Highly recommended! PS: The photo was from the trip to Kamakura.

Dear John S, Hello! I am sorry... for a delayed response. I remember those hot 2 days while you were in Tokyo... compare to today however, it was rather comfortable spring days. You had told me the things we Japanese take it for granted, reassured me the greatness of our capital city Tokyo, and I thank you for that. I will be happy to guide you other places in Japan for your next trip! Junko

My wife and I had a short stay in Okinawa. On one day, we had taken a bus tour but there were other places we wanted to see that was not covered in that tour. We wanted to see Shuri castle, go to the Gyokusendo Cave, and go strawberry picking. My wife has respiratory problems and rheumatoid arthritis. Junko determined that the cave we wanted to see may be too much for my wife to be able to tolerate. She suggested a shorter and possibly more interesting cave to see. We feel that the length of Cave Okinawa was perfect for us. The cave we wanted to see was 4 times longer and I am not sure we would have enjoyed it as much. Since we took the shorter cave, Junko was able to fit in more activities. We went on a boat ride, saw beautiful orchids, and got to experience Dr. fishes which suck the dead skin off of your feet. I was always curious about the fish and we were happy to experience that. At the cave and the castle, she explained significance of what we were seeing. It made it much more interesting compared to if we were to have gone on our own and just walked through the areas. She made sure we were able to get to see the dance performance at the castle. She helped to maximize our day and made it a memorable one. She picked us up and dropped us off at our hotel. My wife had to take breaks because of her physical limitations and Junko was very patient. We felt very comfortable with her. It felt like she was a friend that was showing us around rather than someone we had just met. Initially we were unsure it would be worth it to spend the extra money for a tour guide. I can now say that it was 100% worth it.

Dear Gary A, I am sorry for such a long delay responding to you on this site. How have you been? It is always a challenge choosing right locations for the people from another beautiful island, that is Hawaii. And so relieved to see your wife was able to stay in the tour till the end. As much as we like our guests to become repeat customers, it could be one and only the visit to Okinawa and my mission is to make sure the guests had wonderful time. Though it will be nice to see you again somehow in somewhere! Junko

Junko tailored a wonderful itinerary to my interests and I enjoyed it tremendously. The history, background, translations and explanations she provided greatly enriched my experiences in Okinawa. My favorite spot was beautiful waterfalls in the north you hike to through a stream and swim at the falls. The itinerary she arranged also included amazing culinary adventures (tofu fermented in Awamori liquor, Shikuwasha citrus juice, Mozuku seaweed tempura and more)! She was extremely responsive during the planning and very pleasant company throughout. Highly recommended

Dear Navigator435364, Thank you so much for taking your time and writing me a great review. I am very sorry that it took me a while to respond you. I assume you enjoyed the rest of your stay in Japan, too. And I am most curious to know how Awamori server works for the olive oil...! When you come back to this beautiful island, I suggest you would come back in a little warmer weather and stay one of remote islands just to relax a day or two. I will be happy to plan that for you. Junko

Originally, we had intended to do a self drive 6 days Okinawa tour , planning to spend 3 days covering Northern Okinawa mainland and 3 days covering Southern Okinawa mainland. However, as we researched on our own , with the good reviews we saw on Junko, we decided to reach out to her to consider using her vs our own self drive. Junko was a breeze to deal from the start, a straight shooter, no non sense , very honest and caring guide. On her advise, we decide to take an overnight trip to AKA island, which has now become the highlight of our 6 days trip. She is very accomodating and patience, and go out of her ways to look after our group of 8. We especially appreciate having her around when it comes to places to eat , and shopping; as none of us speak or understand Japanese. With the availability of "all kind of app", i believed moving around Okinawa on one's own is manageable logistically, however having Junko for all the "inside scoop" which only local would know and Japanese language made the whole vacation exceptionally AWESOME! Having use Junko, we were able to compare our level of enjoyment in previous Japan trip without a guide and with Junko as a guide. Would certainly use Junko again for other parts of Japan, in the future.

Dear TOCANMISS, Thank you very much for your time and leaving the review. You surely didn't suffer from jet lag in spite of long journey back home! Choosing places to eat are always challenging, I know the importance of it and if that fails, your memory of destination wouldn't be as good... I must say, I really had such a wonderful time with your group, and I was very envious because all 8 of you, relatives and friends, were always laughing a lot!! In Japan we have so much to offer and I would love to introduce you other part of my beautiful, unique country. Now I know your preferences, I can plan the itinerary elsewhere within Japan, too. Till then, enjoy traveling! Junko

Skip to Main Content of WWII

Victory in the pacific: japan & okinawa.

The National WWII Museum’s newest tour brings you to Japan, where World War II ultimately ended. Beginning in Tokyo, guests will investigate the Japanese perspective on the end of the war at the Yushukan War Memorial Museum and also explore the Japanese civilian experience at the National Showa Memorial Museum.

Present-day Hiroshima is noted for both its beautiful scenery and outstanding cuisine. Hiroshima also has a dark past as the site of the first atomic bombing in 1945. We will contemplate the importance of this truly world-changing event as we view the stark remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome. We will visit the Peace Park and Memorial Museum, with its sobering exhibits detailing the horrific human cost of the attack. And we’ll take time to explore the moral complexities still surrounding the bomb, reflecting on the monumental difficulties confronting President Truman and his senior advisors as they grappled with a dynamic military and diplomatic situation to bring the war to a successful close.

The nearby port of Kure is both a major shipyard and the very cradle of the Imperial Japanese Navy. While in Kure, we will visit one of my favorite spots: the Maritime Museum, complete with its awesome 86-foot-long model of the  Yamato , the largest battleship ever built.

Finally, we’ll journey to Okinawa, scene of the largest land battle of the Pacific war. This bitter, two-and-a-half month struggle between the American forces and the Imperial Japanese Army resulted in the total destruction of the southern half of the island, leading to the deaths of nearly half of Okinawa’s 300,000 civilians. We will visit some of the landmarks that have stamped their names forever on military history: Kakazu Ridge, Hacksaw Ridge, and the heights of Shuri Castle. At the end of our touring, we will all better understand how this savage battle earned its grim nickname: “The Typhoon of Steel.”

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With its position in the South Pacific, Guadalcanal was an ideal location for a Japanese airfield that could threaten vital US sea lanes to Australia.

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Italy: 1944

Join The National WWII Museum Educational Travel Program on this Italian journey of “Mud, Mountains, and Mules,” with all of its sacrifices, heartbreak, and triumphs. With exquisite hotels in Rome and Florence and expert battlefield guides throughout, you will experience the best that Italy has to offer.

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This fascinating journey will begin in the lush province of Bataan, where tour participants will walk the first kilometer of the Death March and visit the remains of the prisoner of war camp at Cabanatuan, which was liberated by American Army Rangers and Filipino Scouts on the eve of the Battle of Manila.

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Okinawa battle sites tours offer peeks into island's history

Photo By Spc. Leigh Campbell | Bullet holes from the Battle of Okinawa remain in the Shisa statue at Tomori, Kochinda... ... read more read more

Photo By Spc. Leigh Campbell | Bullet holes from the Battle of Okinawa remain in the Shisa statue at Tomori, Kochinda Town. The shisa is said to be the oldest village shisa of Okinawa. The Ryukyuan decoration is believed to protect Okinawans from evil.   see less | View Image Page

OKINAWA, OKINAWA, JAPAN

Story by lance cpl. daniel todd  , iii marine expeditionary force   march 2017">  .

OKINAWA, Japan -- Living on Okinawa provides a unique opportunity to gain more intimate knowledge of the largest amphibious assault and bloodiest World War II battle in the Pacific. There are historic battle sites all over the island, many of which are featured at local parks such as Peace Memorial Park in Itoman and the Kakazu Park in Ginowan City. An individual wanting to learn more about the Battle of Okinawa can travel to these well-known sites quite easily. They are well marked on roadways and most local maps. But for those looking to visit some of the islands more remote battle sites, it is best done with an experienced tour guide, according to Gunnery Sgt. Richard Deuto, who sometimes leads tours for Marines and units here. Most recently, Deuto, a history enthusiast with an in-depth knowledge of the Battle of Okinawa, led a tour for 20 Marines with the 3rd Marine Division staff as they toured eight sites throughout the southern part of Okinawa Jan. 23. "Thanks to gunny's expertise, we were able to have an excellent tour," said Brig. Gen. Mastin Robeson, the 3rd Marine Division commanding general. "I encourage every Marine to take the opportunity to get out and take a tour of the battle sites, whether it is with (Marine Corps Community Services) or someone who is knowledgeable about the battle." Deuto guided the Marines on the tour, which started at Kakazu Ridge. The steep ridge, which faces Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, was the sight of some of the bloodiest fighting from April 8-24, 1945, he said. The Marines then traveled to Urasoe Escarpment, Sugar Loaf Hill, Conical Hill, the Tomori Statue, the Japanese Cave Nurse's Memorial and Lt. Gen. Simon Bolivar Buckner's death site. During the tour, Deuto explained in great detail the extreme difficulty the American forces faced due to the strategic planning of the Japanese. The troops faced an enemy whose defenses were deeply dug into the limestone cliffs and boasted mutually supporting gun positions and a wealth of artillery of various calibers. A typical fortified ridge, like the ones the Marines visited, had Japanese machine-gun nests on the forward slope and on nearby rises that intersected avenues of approach. Troops advancing during the battle also faced deadly mortar shells from invisible positions on the reverse slopes. Walking up the ridges and through the rough terrain proved difficult for the Marines during their tour, and many spoke out about how tough it must have been for the troops during the battle. Deuto added even more to the picture as he described what the troops likely faced. "Imagine how difficult (to advance) it was, with no paths or stairs leading up the ridges, while sinking into the ground which was like quicksand from the monsoon that hit the island," Deuto said. "Then imagine being under non-stop fire from all positions." Not only did the Marines tour some of the difficult terrain, the American forces faced, they also explored the caves the Japanese lived in to understand the conditions they endured. "There is no way I could have lived in there," said Gunnery Sgt. Darnell Hartwell. "We hardly had any room to move, and there were only about 20 of us. Having to live in there with hundreds of men in complete darkness would drive me insane." After touring the ridges where so many men, both American and Japanese, lost their lives, the Marines headed to the Shisa at Tomori, Kochinda Town, the Nurses Cave Memorial and ended the tour at Buckner's death site. The Shisa at Tomori is said to be the oldest village shisa on Okinawa and dates back to the 17th century. The Ryukyuan decoration resembles a cross between a lion and a dog and is believed to protect people from evil. Bullet holes from the battle still remain in the statue. The nurses' memorial pays tribute to the young Okinawan school girls and teachers who were forced into caves to be nurses for the Japanese soldiers. Many of the nurses committed suicide near the end of the battle because they were terrified of the American forces due to Japanese military propaganda that falsely warned of terrible acts committed by Americans against civilians. At Buckner's death site, Deuto told the story of how the accomplished general met his end. Three mortars rained in on Buckner and his men as they were on top of the hill. Two went right over their heads but the third hit the front of the hill blasting coral and shrapnel into Buckner's chest, ending his life. All the Marines enjoyed the tour and said that everyone living on Okinawa should take the opportunity to explore the battle sites. MCCS Tours Plus offers regular battle sites tours with a knowledgeable tour guide. Tours are available for individuals and groups. More information is available by calling the Tours Plus office at 646-3502.

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The Battle of Okinawa and People's Lives

A Journey to Refine the Senses

The tour is held the Haebaru Town which was fierce battleground during the Battle of Okinawa. You will experience passing through the path to carry meals for soldiers, which was actually used during the war, and the"Okinawa Army Hospital Haebaru Bunker No.20" where many wounded soldiers were carried. At the lunch, through a menu based on episodes from the wartime and reconstruction periods, you will get a glimpse of the elements of health and longevity that are naturally incorporated into the lives of Okinawans who survived the postwar period. While touring these sites, please come in touch with the thoughts of the Okinawan people who wish for the eternal peace in Okinawa where the sacred land of peace. Sharpen your senses stimulated by the sounds, smells, light and shadows in the changing landscape of forests, bunker, and towns.

At the end of World War II, Okinawa became the battlefield involving the local people, and many Okinawans lost their lives. During the war, a student corps consisting of teenagers was formed, and you will visit the path to carry meals for soldiers, the army hospital bunker where the girls actually worked. The tour will relive those days by visiting those places and food people eat during and after the Battle of Okinawa.

●the battle of okinawa and the path to carry meals for soldiers.

The path to carry meals for soldiers in the hospital bunkers is one of the few remaining paths in Okinawa. Today the path is overgrown with trees, but at that time there was only short grass growing on it. The sounds of fighter jets flying overhead, some smells carried by the wind, and the humidity weather, the Himeyuri student corps helped each other and risked their lives as they ran along this path to deliver food to the banker. Let's sharpen all our five senses and walk along this path, imagining what it was like to help each other and connect with people during the war.

●Bunker Passage Experience

During the war, the daily meal was one small rice ball. During the postwar reconstruction period, meals were coarse, but they were traditional home cooking using island vegetables, the secret to a long and healthy life. Through home cooking using Okinawan ingredients at a local diner, you will experience the transition from wartime to postwar and to the present day.

【 Notes on reservation 】

●The entire tour (about 4 km) will be on foot, so please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Please wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from heat stroke and sunburn, and bring drinking water. ●Please note that wheelchairs and strollers are not accessible on the road to the path to carry meals for soldiers. ●The Okinawa Army Hospital Haebaru Bunker No.20 is designated as a cultural asset by Haebaru Town. For the protection of cultural assets, please follow the guide's instructions while in the bunker. ●If you have any food allergies or restriction, please contact with us. ●The price vary depending on the number of participants and other factors. ●Please contact with us if you wish to join the tour with more than 8 people. ●Please note that the itinerary may be changed or cancelled depending on the season, weather, or other factors. ●Please contact us if you would like a different start time for the tour. Please note that the tour content may change depending on the start time. ●Please be aware that temperatures and humidity are expected to be extremely high during the summer season. Please take precautions against sunburn and heat stroke by yourself. If you do not feel well during the tour, please do not hesitate to ask our staff for assistance. ●During the summer, the activity level will be 2 due to the increase in temperature and humidity.

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Shore Excursion Details

Battle of okinawa, naha (okinawa), japan.

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• 4 3/4 hrs Estimate Duration

Visit Okinawa's historic battlefield sites and monuments dedicated to the Battle of Okinawa in this touching and historical tour. Travel towards the southeast corner of Okinawa, passing by several residential and commercial areas. Stop for a visit at the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters, located where Rear Admiral Ota and his men desperately fought to the end on June 13, 1945. Walk down the 101 steps into the narrow tunnels of the headquarters to see the commanding officer's room, staff room, generator rooms and more, giving you unique insight into the experiences the soldiers and officers had inside the headquarters. Your scenic drive takes you pass lush green fields and beautiful countryside en route to the Peace Memorial Park, where you will have the opportunity see the numerous stone memorials that are dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Battle of Okinawa. Not far from here you’ll find the Himeyuri Monument, built in memory of the female high school students and teachers who gave their lives working under deplorable conditions, tending the injured in makeshift hospitals during the war.

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• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

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REC Tour - Okinawa Battle Site Tour

Experience the historical battle of Okinawa with a tour of the former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters, Himeyuri no Tour, and the Okinawa Peace Park Museum.

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• Okinawa Main Island ›

Okinawa Main Island Tours

Book a private okinawa main island tour with a local tour guide.

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Okinawa Main Island Highlights Tours

The memorial World War 2 & Okinawa World

This tour will present you the facts of grand battle of the okinawa the world war 2. photographes, artifacts, and film will testify cruelty of the war. these places are playing an important role sending the message of the world peace and tragedy of the war..

The highlight of Naha

This is 4 hours tour. During 7 hours, you can visit popular sightseeing spots in Naha as you like. For example, shrine, temple,shopping street, pottery street, castle ruin site. In one day, you feel Okinawa enough.

Churaumi aquarium and Sunset beach

We go around northern okinawa, churaumi aquarium and dolphin show, fukugi street, zakimi castle (world heritage), maeda cape if you want to see nice beach. american village in chatan town( many fantastic area like disneyland) next to sun set beach, and then take you to your hotel..

Walking tour around Shuri castle and Makishi public market

We visit shuri castle inside, shurei gate, little forest, and a panorama view, we go together to makishi public market. you can eat dinner there. also, you walk around machiguwa ( little down town) with a guide. you will have a chance to talk to okinawan people who work at the market., okinawa main island day trip tours.

Best of Okinawa

A unique history and culture that related kingdom era with present times. it was registered as a world heritage site in 2000. you can find and enjoy lively okinawa and time-honored okinawa..

World War Ⅱ history course

The battle of okinawa was the only ground battle of world war ii in japan, fought and went on for about three months. this is the course which you need to go about world war ⅱ history..

Explore Highlights of Southern Okinawa main island

Covers the most popular sightseeing spots of the southern area on okinawa's main island. the duration of the tour can be flexible, ranging from 4 to 9 hours, depending on your requests. the standard duration is 7 hours. you will travel by taxi for transportation. you will pay the excluding fees on-site, such as taxi fee, parking, toll-road, admission and meal..

Explore WW2 war Sites of Battle of Okinawa

Visit the ww2 war sites of battle of okinawa, such as the u.s. forces landing place, main battle sites, the japanese forces facilities or ruins, and battle of okinawa-related museum and so on. pick you up and drop you off at designated place. basic tour duration is 8 hours. my guiding rate is 5,000 jpy hourly(1-4 pax), 6,000 jpy hourly (5-8 pax). this including the meet-up fees. we use the taxi for the part of the routes because of poor public transportation in okinawa., okinawa main island art, culture, & historical tours.

Ryukyu Castle Hopping! - Gosamaru vs Amawari

There are hundreds of unique castle ruins, called gusuku, in okinawa, and five of them were registered as the world heritage sites in 2000. this tour visits three of them, namely zakimi castle, nakagusuku castle, and katsuren castle, as an imaginary time travel to the ryukyu kingdom..

Tracing the Front Line! - WWII Battle of Okinawa Tour

The battle of okinawa was one of the bloodiest ground warfare in wwii. when u.s. troops landed on okinawa island on april 1, 1945, there was little counterattack contrary to their expectations. this was because the japanese strategy was to build strong underground positions in the southern part of the island and turn the fight into an endurance contest. from this day, the 3 months of fierce battles embroiling citizens began. in this tour, we will trace the front line of the battle in 2 days..

Deep Dive to Okinawa! - Edutainment Tour

If you want to make your trip more fruitful than just suntanning at the beach, let's learn about the okinawan unique culture, history, and nature. after grasping the basic information about okinawa at a museum, i will take you to authentic historical/cultural assets where you can have a unique and unforgettable experience., okinawa main island nature & outdoor tours.

Feel the Energy of Nature! - Yambaru Eco Trekking Tour

The world natural heritage site, yambaru, occupies only 0.1% of the japanese land, but 1/4 of the entire species in japan inhabit most of them are endemic species that adapted to the unique subtropical environment isolated from the eurasia continent and mainland japan. by trekking in the forest with a nature guide who has an experience as a local science teacher, you can notice the unique features of the forest that you can't realize when walking on your own, okinawa main island shopping tours.

Finding a Favorite Yachimun! - Pottery Village Walking Tour

Yachimun, okinawan traditional pottery, is well-known for its coexistence of colorful design and naive texture. many top chefs in japan use yachimun dishes because they boost the allure of the cuisine without over-decoration and increase customers' appetites. the best way to find your favorite yachimun is to visit as many studios with a guide-interpreter as possible and talk to the artists or shop staff at yachimun no sato, or yachimun pottery village, at yomitan, day trips from okinawa main island.

Okinawa Remote Islands

Okinawa main island tour reviews.

Kristine B.

BEST of OKINAWA

“ Exellent guide ”

Tateo was a knowledgeable, kind, and great guide. Two of us did a full day Best of Okinawa tour with him, visiting Okinawa Castle, Okinawa World, the WWII Naval underground bunker, the Peace Memorial Park, and the market place. All of these were great stops. Tateo kept things going at a quick, but not rushed pace so we were able to see a lot. His English was good and he shared wonderful insights about the history and customs of Okinawa. We would highly recommend him as a guide.

Hi, Kristine B. I'm grateful that we were able to compleate the tour smoothly with the cooperation of both of you. This island is a small, but it's also a place has been greatly influenced by your contry. Please visit again someday and reconfirm that is changing. There are other places that I haven't introduced yet. Thank you for taking the time to write nice review this time. Best Regards Tateo U.

“ Naha tour with Kumiko ”

Noriko wasn't available on the day of our tour so she arranged her friend Kumiko to guide us, and she arranged a great tour of Naha in the limited time we had. Highly recommend a local to guide you through their city rather then a big group in a bus.

Thank you for your message. I am glad to hear you enjoyed the tour in Naha city. Thank you.

5-Hour Tour with a Private Car from Naha Port

“ Everything went well ”

The driver showed up on time, but not as early as the guide. He came to the pickup points and worked well with the guide. There was an incident when a car cut dangerously in front of the bus. However the driver honked his horn long and hard at the other driver. His angry honking at the other driver achieved nothing and was counter productive, therefore inappropriate.

We really appreciate you taking the time to leave us a review. We value every customer's feedback, and what you say will be relayed in full to the local staff in Okinawa. If there is anything else we can do for you, please let us know!

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War in the Pacific Tour with Iwo Jima Reunion of Honor

The tour has far exceeded our expectations. We have loved getting to know you and to share this wonderful experience with you.

– Gary and Joy Peck

War in the Pacific Tour is a transformative experience!

Travel with our historians to the islands where the battles raged during the War in the Pacific, where “uncommon valor was a common virtue.” Our experts in WWII history will discuss the American and Japanese strategies and how these strategies actually played out on the Pacific islands of Hawaii, Saipan, Tinian, Guam, and Iwo Jima.

Our tour is the most comprehensive War in the Pacific Tour. We visit Battleship Row at Pearl Harbor where the Japanese attacked on December 7, 1941 and the remains of the sunken USS Arizona rests. We explore the invasion beaches of Saipan where hundreds of Japanese jumped to their deaths. We travel to Tinian, which is where the departure airfield for the Enola Gay and the atomic bomb was located. We learn about the battle sites on Guam, key in the story of the Navajo Indian code talkers role, and also the site of the War Dog Memorial. We experience the emotion of climbing Mt. Suribachi on Iwo Jima, where the American flag was raised to symbolize victory on Iwo Jima, an iconic image forever etched in our minds.

Iwo Jima Reunion of Honor Memorial Service

SAHT is proud to partner with the Iwo Jima Association of America (IJAA) to bring Iwo Jima Veterans, family members, historians, educators, and those who need to walk the “Black Sands of Iwo Jima” to the island where the most iconic battle of the Pacific Theater occurred. The IJAA, in coordination with the Japanese Government, the Iwo Jima Association of Japan, and military commands from both countries, will conduct a joint “Reunion of Honor” ceremony on Iwo Jima. 

With its three airfields, Iwo Jima was ideally located as a fighter-escort station. It was also an ideal sanctuary for crippled bombers returning from Japan.

• The U.S. Air Force fought in the longest sustained aerial offensive of the war.
• More Marines were sent to Iwo Jima than to any other battle.
• More medals for heroism were awarded for action on Iwo Jima than any battle in the history of the U.S.

This is only an inkling of the history you will learn as you island-hop through the War in the Pacific.

All guests going to Iwo Jima must attend the full tour. However, guests can sign up for the the tour without the day trip to Iwo Jima. Because entry on Iwo Jima is limited to American passport holders, our international guests will have a free day on Guam during the day visit to Iwo.

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• Reunion of Honor Memorial Service: Attend the day-long Memorial Tour and Observance on Iwo Jima
• Hawaii: Visit Battleship Row in Hawaii where the remains of the sunken USS Arizona rests
• Saipan: Walk the invasion beaches of Saipan, Harakiri Gulch, and Marpi Point, where hundreds of Japanese jumped to their deaths
• Tinian: Visit the launching field for the Enola Gay and atomic bomb
• Guam: See the key battle sites on Guam and the War Dog Memorial
• Mt. Suribachi: Climb Mt. Suribachi, where the American flag was raised on Iwo Jima

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Our tour will begin at the Welcome Reception and Dinner at the Honolulu hotel. You will meet the Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours staff and your fellow travelers.

Ford Island is the centerpiece of the Pearl Harbor National Historic Landmark District and adjacent to Battleship Row. The original airfield, air tower, WWII hangars, a collection of bungalows and officers’ housing remain on the site.

Battleship Row, home to the USS Arizona Memorial, is built over the remains of the sunken battleship USS Arizona, the final resting place for many of the 1,177 crewmen killed on December 7, 1941. The loss of life on this “Day of Infamy” became the focal point for a nation that was previously divided over the issue of involvement in the war.

The group will visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific and the Honolulu Memorial, referred to as the Punchbowl. Located in Puowaina Crater, roughly translated, “Puowaina” means “Hill of Sacrifice.” Here you will hear an overview of the entire Pacific War.

Saipan and Tinian

The capture of Saipan was one of the turning points of the war in the Pacific. Following Japan’s surrender in 1945, Vice Admiral Shigeyoshi Miwa of the Japanese Navy said, “Our war was lost with the loss of Saipan.”

In Saipan, you will visit the Invasion Beaches and battle sites of Operation Forager. Our historians will discuss the combat between the Americans and the Japanese during the 24 days it took to secure the island. Names that testified to the bitter fighting were given, such as Death Valley, Purple Heart Ridge and Harakiri Gulch, where the last major battle of the island occurred.

You will visit Aslito Airfield, as well as Mount Topotchau, and Marpi Point. It was at Marpi Point that hundreds of Japanese civilian families jumped to their deaths. Droves of Japanese soldiers also committed suicide at the many cliffs around Saipan, either jumping to their death, or by grenade.

Tinian is perhaps most famous for being the departure site for atomic bomb. The USS Indianapolis, prior to its departure for the Philippines, delivered this secret cargo to Tinian. Our historians will talk about the USS Indianapolis, the sinking of the ship and survival of the crew in the shark-infested waters. While in Tinian, we will spend some time focusing on the Tinian airport, which in 1945, was perhaps the busiest and largest in the world. At North Field, look for the plaques that mark the location of the bomb loading pits for the “Enola Gay” and “Bocks Car.”

Our study of Guam will begin with the Invasion Beaches, Asan and Agat beaches. These two invasion beaches, separated by the Orote Peninsula, are located six miles apart, on the west central coast of Guam.

Asan Point is a primary visitor area where the overall story of the Pacific War is told by means of museum exhibits. Historic sites, including a number of gun emplacements, caves, foxholes and pillboxes are located within the Asan Beach Unit. Gaan Point, at the center of Agat Beach, is another place of interest, which also contains many WWII sites and structures. The beach and offshore area here are relatively unspoiled and provides a good impression of how they looked in 1944.

One interesting aspect of the recapture of Guam was the role played by the Navajo Indian servicemen, who operated the radios openly conversing in their native tongue, unknown to the Japanese. This successful tactic completely baffled the Japanese, who expected to hear coded English. Another interesting place to visit in Guam is The War Dog Memorial. Located on the Naval Facility, it honors the Dobermans that served with the Marines in 1944 and who were killed in action performing duties such as leading scouting parties, exploring caves and serving as sentries.

After an early breakfast at the hotel, the group will take a charter flight to Iwo Jima. Iwo Jima, with its three airfields, was ideally located as a fighter-escort station; it was also an ideal sanctuary for crippled bombers returning from Japan. The U.S. Air Force fought in the longest sustained aerial offensive of the war, and more Marines were sent to Iwo Jima than to any other battle. More medals for heroism were awarded for action on Iwo Jima than any battle in the history of the U.S. Our historians will discuss the American and Japanese strategies and the bloody battle that ensued for 36 days as we tour Iwo Jima. It is atop Mt. Suribachi that the flag was raised, indicating victory on Iwo Jima. It is this picture that is etched in our minds as we remember Iwo Jima, “Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue.”

Farewell Day

Our last day in Guam will be a free morning to recover and reflect from yesterday’s trip to Iwo Jima. Our tour will conclude that evening at a Farewell Dinner, hosted by the 3rd Marine Corps Division Association Guam.

• 2024 Japanese Extension - April 1 - 6, 2024
• 2025 Tour - March 2025
• 2025 Koror & Peleliu Extension - March 2025
• 2025 Japanese Extension - March 2025

Recommended Reading and Viewing

• Flags of Our Fathers by James Bradley
• Strong Men Armed by Robert Leckie
• With the Old Breed by Eugene Sledge
• A Tomb Called Iwo Jima by Dan King
• Iwo Jima: The Dramatic Account of the Epic Battle that Turned the Tide of World War II by Richard F. Newcomb
• Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970)
• From Here to Eternity (1953)
• The Final Countdown (1980)

Tour Includes

• Group flights: Hawaii – Saipan – Tinian – Guam – Iwo Jima – Hawaii
• Access to Iwo Jima and the Reunion of Honor Memorial Service
• Full-time historian and tour manager
• Educational road book full of maps and historical information
• First-class accommodations in four or five-star hotels, all taxes, porterage (where available), and service charges
• Touring by private first-class air-conditioned motor coach
• A Welcome Reception, daily breakfasts, and several lunches and dinners 
• All entrance fees to museums and attractions

Physical Demands

There is a lot of flying on this tour. If you have issues with blood clots, please speak to your doctor. Iwo Jima is a tropical, volcanic island that is covered with low vegetation and heat-radiating sand. There is no native population on the island, only Japanese military personnel. As a result, creature comforts are few or non-existent. Since it does not offer the most hospitable conditions for visitors, expect to deal with the elements while on the island, whether it is sunny and hot or windy and rainy. There is some transportation provided by the Japanese government, but veterans and their families are given priority. Some guests will have the opportunity to use this transportation, but there may be long wait periods. Walking is always an option and can be strenuous at times, such as when we ascend Mt. Suribachi.

Photo Gallery

• Chris Anderson
• Don Farrell
• Martin K.A. Morgan
• Mark Waycaster

Tour Price Format: Land + Flights

The SAHT War in the Pacific Tour cost is broken down to the Reunion of Honor ceremony on Iwo Jima, the land-based cost of the tour, and flights. The land-based cost includes hotels, buses, admission, and staff, but excludes commercially available flights between Honolulu, Guam, Saipan, and Tinian. United will calculate each party's flight costs individually based on when they are booking flights, where your flights start/end, and upgraded seats.

2024 Iwo Jima Reunion of Honor Memorial Service

$3,045 per person. All guests going to Iwo Jima must attend the full tour. However, guests can sign up for the tour without the day trip to Iwo Jima. Because entry on Iwo Jima is limited to American passport holders, our international guests will have a free day on Guam during the day visit to Iwo.

2024 War in the Pacific tour

The tour-only, land-based price is $7,745 per person based on double occupancy. If rooming alone, there will be a single occupancy supplement of $1,700. Flight costs will be calculated separately and added to each statement.

(Tour plus Iwo Jima Reunion of Honor equals $10,790 per person in the case of double occupancy.)

2024 Peleliu & Koror Extension

The Peleliu and Koror extension cost is $2,410 per person based on double occupancy. Single supplement of $600 if rooming alone. There is limited room on the extension. Not all requests are guaranteed a seat.

2024 Japanese Extension

The Japanese extension cost is $3,500 per person based on double occupancy. Single supplement of $600 if rooming alone.

2025 Tour and Extensions

Dates and prices for the 2025 War in the Pacific Tour with the Renuinon of Honor, as well as the optional extensions, will be announced. However, we are taking $500 per person deposits for first refusal when we do announce the 2025 dates and prices.

Our Guests’ Reviews

There are 8 reviews for ' War in the Pacific Tour with Iwo Jima Reunion of Honor '. Add your review

Iwo Jima Tour 2023

What a great time and a great group of people. It was 3 years of waiting after COVID canceled the 2020 75th Anniversary Tour.

The wait was worth it, I got to go with my son, Alden, who is 13 years old. He got to have a blast and maybe he doesn’t realize it yet, but he got to meet the WWII veterans that were part of our trip. When he gets older and the last of them are gone, this will be a special moment for me and for him. We are forever grateful for them and for the heroes that never made it home.

It has been about a month since we got back and I am still recovering from all the stuff we saw and got to absorb. From abandoned air raid bunkers left by the Japanese Military, to tanks and LST’s in the water from the numerous D-Day type of invasions on Saipan, Guam and of course Iwo Jima.

Overall, the historians had unimaginable knowledge of not only the battles themselves, but who was in charge, who was relieved of command, and a host of other knowledge that put us in a place that we could imagine what it was like, of course without bullets flying at us.

I can only imagine what the other trips to Normandy and other historical sites might be like, but Iwo Jima in particular had significant meaning for my family and I want to thank all that went and made this trip of a lifetime possible.

Thanks SAHT for a great trip.

War in the Pacific - 2014

My son Ryan and I were on this tour in 2014. This was my first experience with SAHT, both of us were immensely impressed. If fact I have enjoyed 3 additional tours since then. Starting on Oahu we viewed all of the key sights associated with the Japanese raid on Dec 7. Many of these were behind the scenes and not accessible to the average tourist. From there we proceeded to Saipan. Tinian and Guam. All were very interesting and our guide Mr. Ron Drez was able to paint a picture of the fighting and historical significance that took place in every place we stopped. Driving across Tinian on what was in reality a ghost town compared to the frenzy of 1944 allowed you to transport yourself back to that time. The high point of this trip was the time spent on Iwo Jima. Standing on top of Mount Surabaci accompanied by a handful of veterans was a humbling experience. Ryan and I watched as these men raised a flag exactly on the spot where the well known picture was taken. I was honored to be in the company of these heroes, sharing that experience with my son was priceless. Moments that neither of us will ever forget. Like all SAHT tours all accommodations and arrangements were first class and amazingly organized.

2018 War in the Pacific and Iwo Jima Tour

I had been thinking about this Tour for five years and finally made a commitment to plan my calendar around this Extraordinary Opportunity this year. It so vastly exceeded my expectations on every level. Ron Drez and his wife, Judy, were both exceptional Guides and Hosts every step of the way. I thought I knew most everything about Pearl Harbor, but Ron’s connections and knowledge took us to places and stories that were all new, and added immensely to my historical body of knowledge. Amazing trips followed to Guam, Saipan and Tinian – places where my father had been during his service in WWII aboard the US Navy Attack Transport USS Oconto. The opportunity to retrace his journey was priceless.

The Crown Jewel Highlight, however was the Reunion of Honor flight and visit to Iwo Jima. Standing atop Mount Suribachi and walking along the Black Sand Invasion Beaches was a Lifetime Dream come true. The experience of being on Iwo Jima with the few remaining WWII Veterans who were there, along with young Marines serving today who hosted us on the island, made for one of the Best Days of my Life. Worth every penny and every day invested to get there! Thanks to Ron, Judy and Ambrose Tours for organizing and orchestrating an unforgettable Tour experience. I would do it again someday, without thinking twice about the decision.

Iwo Jima Tour: War in the Pacific

My wife and I made the tour in 2016 and the post tour to Peleliu. This trip was incredible with access to normally closed areas on Ford Island and Hickam Field. Seeing the loading pits for the Enola Gay and Bockscar on Tinian and the enormity of North Field really helped to bring the size of the US commitment into perspective. Climbing the black sand beaches of Iwo Jima and then Mt Suribachi was followed by the opportunity to talk with survivors of the battle. On to Peleliu with its coral caves filled with Japanese saki bottles and seeing the relatively undisturbed leftovers of war was amazing. Ron Drez provided a lot of information and insight into the various sites. Highly recommend both the main trip as well as the Peleliu post tour. Only downside was heat and humidity on Peleliu, but that only helped to further elucidate the difficulties of that miserable battle. Thanks to Mark Lettow (earlier review) for bringing the flag for pictures atop Mt. Suribachi.

War in the Pacific Tour

We took the Pacific Tour in 2016 and we still can’t stop thinking about it! It was the best travel experience of our lifetime. Saipan, Tinian, Guam, and Iwo Jima all provide lasting memories of the sites we saw and the things we learned. It was an adventure with moving experiences. We felt safe and comfortable the entire time. Our tour guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and gave us time to explore a little on our own as well. I was able to pay honor to my uncle who was a veteran of several Pacific battles before being killed on Saipan. I will be forever thankful that I was able to do that for our family. Pack smart and make room for a flag in your daypack!

Deeply moving and exceptional

Iwo Jima was deeply moving and exceptional. The historian’s observations and comments truly enhanced the struggles and memories of the is battle, which can never be over emphasized.

Amazing, inspiring and challenging experience

Ultimately PEOPLE made the trip. Our group was enthusiastic, knowledgeable, friendly and positive….Being able to converse and rub shoulders with the old gentlemen vets was one of the highlight. Our brief time on Iwo was historic, mythic, eerie, prayerful and extremely moving. Suribachi looming ominously over the killing fields and cold surf washing up on the iconic black sand beaches, it was an amazing, inspiring and challenging experience.

Such an honor

We enjoyed all of the tour, but in particular Iwo Jima, the island itself, and Tinian. It was such an honor to get to see it and especially to visit with the veterans about what it means to them.

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