Piti Guns: Silent Sentinels of Guam's WWII Past
Explore Guam's WWII history at the Piti Guns, where silent coastal defense guns stand amidst a tranquil mahogany forest.
Nestled in the hills above Piti village, the Piti Guns offer a glimpse into Guam's pivotal role in World War II. These three Vickers-type Model 3 140mm coastal defense guns were installed by the Japanese in 1944 as part of their efforts to fortify the island against American forces. The Chamorro people were forced to work in building up these defenses. The guns were intended to protect Apra Harbor and Asan Beach from approaching ships and landing craft. Each gun weighed over 12,000 pounds and had a range of approximately 10 miles. Strategically placed in a former rice paddy village, the guns were never fully operational when U.S. troops landed on July 21, 1944, and were never fired. Today, they remain in their original emplacements, offering a tangible connection to the past. Visitors can explore the site via a short but steep trail, immersing themselves in the dense coastal jungle reminiscent of the conditions faced by soldiers during the war. The surrounding mahogany forest, planted in 1928 as part of an agricultural experiment station, adds to the site's unique atmosphere. The Piti Guns serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and struggles endured during the war, and the resilience of the island and its people.
Local tips
- Bring insect repellent, as the jungle trail can have mosquitoes.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep and potentially slippery trail.
- Combine your visit with other sites in the War in the Pacific National Historical Park.
A brief summary to Piti Guns
- FM6V+MQ2, Piti, GU
Getting There
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Walking
The Piti Guns trailhead is located behind the Assumption of Our Lady Church in Piti. From the church social hall, the trail ascends steeply through a jungle. The walk to the guns takes approximately 5-10 minutes. The trail is short but can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
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Public Transport
The Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) bus Route 2 services Piti. From the bus stop at Piti Church, walk along Route 1 for a short distance to Father Mel Street. Turn onto Father Mel Street and proceed to the Assumption of Our Lady Church. The trailhead is located behind the church. A single bus fare is around $1.00.
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Driving
From Marine Corps Drive (Route 1), turn onto J.M. Tuncap Street, across from Santos Park. At the end of J.M. Tuncap Street, turn right onto Assumption Street, then take the next left onto Father Mel Street. Parking is available under the large Saman tree on the left side of the church. Parking is free.
