Japanese Caves: A WWII Historical Landmark
Explore the historical Japanese Caves in Hagåtña, Guam, and step back in time to the World War II era.
The Japanese Caves, located in Hagåtña, Guam, are a significant historical site from World War II. During the Japanese occupation of Guam, these caves were constructed using forced labor by the Chamorro people. The caves served as shelters and storage areas for the Japanese military. These man-made caves offer visitors a chance to explore the underground tunnels and chambers that were crucial to the Japanese forces during the war. Exploring the dimly lit passages creates an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere, providing an immersive experience for those interested in wartime history. Visitors can witness remnants of bunkers and storage areas, visualizing the strategic importance of the caves. While some believe the caves were used as bomb shelters, others suggest they were primarily for storage. One of the cave entrances is located behind the Latte Stone site at the Senator Angel Leon Guerrero Santos Latte Memorial Park. Today, the caves stand as a testament to the island's turbulent past and the resilience of its people.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip, as the terrain inside the caves can be uneven and slippery.
- Bring a flashlight or use your phone light to illuminate dark areas within the caves.
- Respect the historical significance of the site by refraining from touching or removing any artifacts.
- Consider joining a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the caves' historical context.
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
A brief summary to Japanese Caves
- FQC2+XHG, Hagåtña, GU
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in Hagåtña, the Japanese Caves are accessible by foot. From the Plaza de España, walk towards the Guam Law Library. The caves are located across the street from the library, near the San Ramon cliff line. The entrances are a short walk from the road. Be mindful of uneven terrain.
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Public Transport
From Ypao Beach Park, take bus number 10 towards Hagåtña. The bus ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Once in Hagåtña, ask for directions to the Japanese Caves, a short walk from the bus stop. Bus fare is around $2 per ride.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Hagåtña. A taxi ride from Guam Airport to Hagåtña is approximately 8 minutes and costs $40-$50. From the city center, a short taxi ride to the Japanese Caves will cost around $10-$15, depending on the distance and traffic.
