Etajima Island: Former Naval Academy and Beautiful Island Nature

Etajima: Naval Sacred Ground and Island Life

Etajima Island floating in Hiroshima Bay is a historic island known for the former Imperial Japanese Naval Academy (now the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force 1st Service School). The magnificent red-brick building complex represents the pinnacle of Meiji-era architectural technology and overwhelms visitors.

Visiting the Former Naval Academy

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force 1st Service School holds public viewing days that do not require advance registration (confirmation required). The red-brick "Great Lecture Hall" designed by Tatsuno Kingo, who also designed Tokyo Imperial University, is particularly magnificent. The Educational Reference Hall displays relics of Field Marshal Togo Heihachiro and others.

Seto Inland Sea Island Scenery

Etajima's coastline features intricate ria topography with the calm Seto Inland Sea spreading out before you. Many tourists enjoy cycling from Oyō Port and Kirigushi Port as bases, and oysters and oyster dishes are island specialties.

Etajima Oysters and Island Cuisine

Hiroshima is one of Japan's leading oyster-producing regions, and Etajima plays a part in that. Island restaurants offer fresh locally-produced oyster dishes including grilled oysters, fried oysters, and oyster hot pot.

Access

Approximately 25–40 minutes by ferry from Hiroshima city (varies by route). Bicycles can be brought aboard, and cycling around the island is popular.