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Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox: A Window to WWII Guam

Explore Guam's WWII history at the Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox, a coastal defense fortification offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's past.

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The Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox is a historic WWII-era Japanese fortification on Guam, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's strategic past. This concrete structure stands as a reminder of the battles fought here and the resilience of the Guamanian people.

A brief summary to Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox

  • FQH2+CHG, Hagåtña, GU

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the path to the pillbox can be uneven.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities on-site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox is located a short walk from central Hagåtña. From the Guam Museum, walk north along Marine Corps Drive (Route 1). Turn left onto Paseo de Susana. The pillbox is located on a small hill on the west side of the peninsula, a short distance from the high-tide line. The walk from the museum is approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no entrance fees.

  • Public Transport

    From Agana Heights, take the bus towards Hagåtña along Route 4. Inform the driver you wish to visit the pillbox. Alight at the bus stop near the intersection of Route 8. Walk approximately 0.5 miles down Route 8 until you see the sign for the Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox. Follow the path leading to the pillbox. Bus fare is approximately $2-$4. There are no entrance fees.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from most major hotels and shopping centers in Guam. Ask the taxi driver to take you to the Paseo de Susana in Hagåtña. From there, it is a short walk to the Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox. Taxi fares vary, with a standard flag rate of $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter. A 5km ride in Hagatna costs about $0.

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Discover more about Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox

The Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox, located in Hagåtña, Guam, is a tangible reminder of the island's role in World War II. Constructed by Japanese forces during their occupation (1941-1944), this six-sided reinforced concrete structure served as a coastal defense fortification. Positioned a short distance from the high-tide line on the western side of Paseo de Susana, the pillbox offered a strategic vantage point. Its design includes two interior chambers, each equipped with a gun port, and an additional wall provided cover for the entrance. The structure's robust construction, featuring walls between 1.5 and 3 feet thick and a coral rock-cemented roof, highlights its defensive purpose. Today, the Agaña-Hagatna Pillbox is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it stands as a historical landmark. Visitors can explore the site, reflect on Guam's wartime experiences, and appreciate the panoramic views of Hagåtña and the coastline. The site is accessible year-round and offers a peaceful retreat, inviting contemplation on the past amidst the tranquility of nature.

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