🗺️ Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Museum (Iron Whale Museum)

From 1986 to 2004, the most active active-duty submarine of the Self-Defense Forces, the "Akishio," is now transformed into a museum and is publicly displayed for everyone to see. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Museum, also known as the "Iron Whale Museum," is the only museum in Japan where visitors can explore the interior of a submarine that has actually sailed. Upon entering the museum, the first floor introduces the history of Kure City, which developed from the establishment of the former naval base in 1889 into the "City of the Navy," as well as the history of the Maritime Self-Defense Force. Through the exhibits, visitors can learn about Japan, an island nation surrounded by the sea, and its naval history from the post-war period, including mine sweeping, to the present-day Maritime Self-Defense Force. The second floor focuses on the popular topic of mine sweeping abroad. "Mine sweeping" refers to the removal of underwater mines, which is one of the important missions of the Maritime Self-Defense Force. The site also displays actual mines and recreates parts of the deck of a mine sweeper in full size, explaining various aspects in multiple formats. On the third floor, visitors can see submarine models and areas that recreate the living spaces inside a submarine, along with various displays related to submarines. For those who want to further their knowledge about submarines, visiting the interior of the submarine guarantees a more enriching experience. From the third-floor exhibition room, a connecting passage leads to the interior of the submarine. The interior of the "Akishio," preserved in its original state during service, allows visitors to tour the actual living spaces of the crew and experience unique activities, such as using two periscopes set up on-site to view the scenery of Kure Bay. Additionally, there are handy brochures available in seven languages (English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, French, Spanish, and Portuguese) that cover approximately 90% of the world's population.

The only facility in Japan that allows visitors to tour the interior of a submarine that has actually sailed. Various displays, including timelines, introduce the development of Kure City into a "Naval City," as well as the history of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Through diverse exhibits, it presents the "mining" operations that safeguard global maritime security. Visitors can explore the interior of the submarine "Akitsuki," which has been preserved in its active state. A small brochure is available in seven languages (English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Korean, French, Spanish, and Portuguese).