【Kantai Collection -Kancolle-】 Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture

【Kantai Collection -Kancolle-】 Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture

Kantai Collection (Kancolle) is a browser game that launched in 2013 featuring “Kanmusu” (ship girls), personifications of vessels from the former Imperial Japanese Navy. It has continued to captivate many admirals (players). One of the locations that served as a model for the “Chinjufu” (Naval Base) setting of the game is the Kure Chinjufu, centered in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture.

This article provides detailed explanations of pilgrimage spots in Hiroshima Prefecture that any Kancolle fan should visit at least once, from access methods to points of interest. We invite you on a journey where you can touch upon the history of real warships and gain a deeper understanding of the stories of the Kanmusu.

Why Hiroshima Prefecture is a Kancolle Holy Land

Historical Importance of Kure Chinjufu

Kure City flourished as one of the four major naval bases of the Imperial Japanese Navy from the Meiji period through the Showa period. As an important strategic base alongside Yokosuka, Sasebo, and Maizuru, many warships were constructed and dispatched from this location.

The Kure Naval Arsenal is particularly known for constructing the world’s largest battleship, “Yamato,” and many of the Kanmusu beloved by admirals have deep connections to this place. Most of the Kanmusu loved by admirals, including Yamato and Musashi, as well as Akagi, Kaga, Shoukaku, and Zuikaku, were born in Kure or operated with Kure as their base.

Collaboration between Kancolle and Kure City

Kure City has actively pursued official collaboration with Kancolle. In 2016, the “Kure Chinjufu 130th Anniversary Opening and Japan Heritage Recognition Memorial Kancolle Kure Chinjufu Tour” was held. During this event, character panels were installed at various locations throughout the city, attracting many admirals to Kure.

Subsequent collaborative events have been held regularly, and Kure City has established itself as a “holy land” for Kancolle fans. Local shopping streets and tourism facilities welcome Kancolle fans, and even first-time visitors can enjoy their pilgrimage with peace of mind.

Must-See Spots in Central Kure

Yamato Museum (Kure City Maritime History Science Museum)

Basic Information

• Address: 5-20 Takaracho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Opening Hours: 9:00-18:00 (Last admission at 17:30)
• Closed: Tuesdays (or the following day if a holiday), December 29 – January 3
• Admission: 500 yen for adults, 300 yen for high school students, 200 yen for elementary and middle school students
• Access: About 5 minutes walk from JR Kure Station

Highlights

The Yamato Museum is the most important spot for Kancolle pilgrimage. The museum displays a 1/10 scale model of the battleship Yamato (26.3 meters in total length), and many admirals are moved by its overwhelming presence.

On the first floor, the Yamato Plaza allows visitors to observe the meticulously recreated bridge and main guns of the Yamato up close. For admirals who operate Yamato in Kancolle, they will be able to appreciate just how immense the actual ship silhouette was compared to what they see in-game.

The third floor’s “Technology of Shipbuilding” exhibition room displays abundant materials demonstrating the high technological capabilities of the Kure Naval Arsenal. Learning about the technology with which the Kanmusu were constructed deepens one’s understanding of the game.

The museum shop occasionally sells Kancolle collaboration merchandise, attracting many fans seeking limited-edition items. The shop also offers an extensive selection of Yamato-related books and models, making souvenir shopping enjoyable.

Tetsu no Kujira Museum (Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Historical Materials Museum)

Basic Information

• Address: 5-32 Takaracho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last admission at 16:30)
• Closed: Tuesdays (or the following day if a holiday), December 29 – January 3
• Admission: Free
• Access: About 5 minutes walk from JR Kure Station, next to the Yamato Museum

Highlights

Tetsu no Kujira Museum is a unique facility that displays the actual submarine “Akishio” on land. Since many submarine Kanmusu appear in Kancolle, it’s a valuable opportunity to see the interior of an actual submarine.

The ship’s interior is cramped, allowing visitors to experience the harsh environment in which crew members performed their duties. Viewing the museum while imagining the activities of submarine Kanmusu such as I-168, I-19, and I-58 that appear in Kancolle creates a particularly poignant experience.

The museum also features abundant displays about minesweepers, and visitors can learn about post-war Maritime Self-Defense Force activities. Despite free admission, the content is substantial, making it highly recommended to visit this museum together with the Yamato Museum.

Former Kure Chinjufu Headquarters Building (Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Regional Commander’s Office)

Basic Information

• Address: 8-1 Saiwaicho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Viewing: Exterior only (entry to grounds is prohibited)
• Access: About 15 minutes walk from JR Kure Station, or by bus to “Soinbu-mae” bus stop

Highlights

The former Kure Chinjufu Headquarters building is currently used by the Maritime Self-Defense Force as the Kure Regional Commander’s Office, and interior viewing is not permitted. However, it is worth visiting just to see the exterior. The red brick building was constructed in 1889 and embodies the image of the “Chinjufu” that appears on Kancolle game screens.

Photography from in front of the main gate is possible, but since it is a military facility, photography etiquette must be carefully observed. Avoid using telephoto lenses or spending extended periods there, and always follow instructions from security personnel.

A general public viewing day is occasionally held annually, during which entry to the grounds is permitted. The public viewing schedule can be confirmed on the Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Regional Commander’s Office official website, so please consider participating if timing permits.

Kure City Naval Cemetery

Basic Information

• Address: Naganoki-cho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Open Hours: Always open
• Admission: Free
• Access: From JR Kure Station by bus to “Nagasako,” about 10 minutes walk

Highlights

Kure City Naval Cemetery is the burial ground of former Imperial Japanese Navy military personnel and civilian employees. Many who served on vessels that appear in Kancolle rest here, and it’s possible to see admirals quietly paying their respects.

From the cemetery, visitors can view Kure Harbor in its entirety, overlooking the sea from which the Kanmusu once departed. Rather than being a tourist attraction, this is a place for commemoration, so visitors should approach it with a solemn spirit and observe proper etiquette.

In spring, cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, creating a quiet environment where one can reflect on the history of the Kanmusu and actual vessels.

Holy Land Spots Around Kure

Arei Kara Sukoijima (Submarine Wharf)

Basic Information

• Address: Showago-cho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Open Hours: Always open
• Admission: Free
• Access: From JR Kure Station by bus to “Sensuiutai-mae,” immediate vicinity

Highlights

Arei Kara Sukoijima is a rare spot in Japan where you can see active-duty submarines up close. Maritime Self-Defense Force submarines are moored here, and their massive scale and impressive presence are overwhelming.

Developed as a park, visitors can sit on benches and view submarines. For admirals who favor submarine Kanmusu, this is a must-see spot where photography is freely permitted (however, detailed photography using telephoto lenses should be avoided).

Nearby is the boarding point for “Kure Ship Cruises,” where visitors can participate in cruises for viewing Kure’s vessels from the sea. With a duration of approximately 35 minutes, this offers a precious experience of viewing escort ships and submarines from the water.

Ondo Strait and Ondo Bridge

Basic Information

• Address: Kegoya, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Access: About 30 minutes by bus from JR Kure Station to “Ondo Watashi-guchi”

Highlights

Ondo Strait separates Honshu from Kurashiki Island and is known for its swift currents. The beautiful red Ondo Bridge is an iconic symbol of Kure and has been said to serve as a model for Kancolle’s event sea areas.

From the observation deck, visitors enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and can gaze upon the waters where vessels once sailed. The sunset scenery is particularly beautiful and popular for photography.

Nearby stands a stone monument commemorating the “Legend of the Sun-Beckoning,” which tells the tale of Emperor Kiyomori opening this strait in a single day, allowing for historical exploration.

Etajima – Former Imperial Japanese Navy Academy (Maritime Self-Defense Force 1st Technical School)

Basic Information

• Address: Etajima, Etajima-cho, Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture
• Viewing: Guided tours by reservation only
• Tour Times: Three times on weekdays, four times on weekends/holidays (approximately 1.5 hours each)
• Participation Fee: Free
• Access: About 20 minutes by ship from Kure Harbor, about 10 minutes walk from Etajima Port

Highlights

The former Imperial Japanese Navy Academy on Etajima is the educational institution where the commanding officers and crew members of the Kanmusu appearing in Kancolle were trained. Currently used as the Maritime Self-Defense Force 1st Technical School, visitors can participate in guided tours with advance reservations.

The beautiful red brick school buildings, dating from the Meiji period, are architecturally and historically valuable and impressive to visitors. The Educational Reference Museum displays valuable materials related to the former Imperial Japanese Navy, making it a treasure trove for Kancolle fans.

The section displaying the farewell letters and personal effects of special attack unit members is particularly moving, prompting visitors to reflect on the horrors of war and the value of peace. A valid ID is required for viewing, and advance reservation is essential, so check the official website for details before visiting.

Kanmusu Related to Kancolle and Hiroshima Prefecture

Battleships “Yamato” and “Musashi”

Yamato and Musashi, representative battleship Kanmusu of Kancolle, were both constructed at the Kure Naval Arsenal. Yamato was completed on December 16, 1941, and Musashi was constructed at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Nagasaki Shipyard, but both have deep connections with Kure.

At the Yamato Museum, visitors can learn about how the Japanese constructed massive factories to maintain secrecy during construction and the efforts of technicians who built the world’s largest battleship. The “Hotel” as Yamato is sometimes called in-game represents the pinnacle of contemporary technology.

Aircraft Carriers “Akagi” and “Kaga”

Akagi and Kaga, which composed the First Carrier Division, are also vessels with close ties to Kure. In particular, Akagi underwent major modifications at the Kure Naval Arsenal, transforming from its three-level flight deck to the form currently known.

The Yamato Museum also features aircraft carrier-related exhibits, allowing visitors to learn how the aircraft carrier type evolved. The displays are particularly recommended for admirals who primarily use carriers in Kancolle.

Heavy Cruisers “Atago” and “Takao”

Atago and Takao of the Takao-class heavy cruisers were also constructed in Kure. While Atago’s “Panpaka Paan!” phrase is famous in Kancolle, the actual ship was a formidable warship that participated in the First Solomon Sea Campaign and other engagements.

Local museums in Kure provide detailed information on the development of heavy cruisers and battle records.

Destroyers “Yukikaze” and “Shigure”

Yukikaze, known as the “Miracle Destroyer,” and Shigure, which rivaled “Kure’s Yukikaze, Sasebo’s Shigure,” also operated with Kure as their base. In particular, Yukikaze survived numerous fierce battles and remained moored in Kure until being transferred to the Republic of China after the war.

The Tetsu no Kujira Museum and Yamato Museum display destroyer roles and combat records, allowing visitors to reconsider the importance of these smaller but vital vessels.

Model Courses for Holy Land Pilgrimages

Day Trip Course (Central Kure)

9:00 AM Arrival at JR Kure Station
About 30 minutes from Hiroshima Station on the Kure Line, or approximately 45 minutes by express bus from Hiroshima Bus Center.

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM Yamato Museum
Thorough viewing requires over two hours. Using the audio guide is also recommended.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch
Enjoy Kure specialties like “Navy Curry” or “Kure Cold Noodles.” The café in the Yamato Museum and nearby restaurants are convenient.

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Tetsu no Kujira Museum
Despite free admission, it’s full of engaging content. Viewing the submarine interior is a must.

2:45 PM – 3:30 PM Former Kure Chinjufu Headquarters Building
Only exterior viewing is possible, but don’t forget to take commemorative photos.

3:45 PM – 4:30 PM Arei Kara Sukoijima
Take a bus to view active-duty submarines. If time permits, participating in the Kure ship cruise is also recommended.

5:00 PM Shopping and dinner near Kure Station
Purchase Kancolle merchandise and Kure souvenirs, then enjoy dinner before returning to Hiroshima.

Two-Night, Three-Day Course (Kure + Etajima)

Day 1

• Morning: View Yamato Museum and Tetsu no Kujira Museum as in the day trip course
• Afternoon: Extend to Arei Kara Sukoijima and Ondo Strait
• Evening: Stay at a hotel in Kure

Day 2

• Morning: Take a ship from Kure Harbor to Etajima and participate in the former Navy Academy guided tour (advance reservation required)
• Afternoon: Explore the Navy Academy Educational Reference Museum and surrounding areas
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima via Kure Harbor, or visit Kure City Naval Cemetery

This course allows leisurely exploration of the major spots in both Kure and Etajima.

Two-Night, Three-Day Course (Hiroshima Prefecture and Beyond)

With more time available, combining sightseeing in Hiroshima City, Okunoshima Island (Rabbit Island) in Takehara, and Onomichi creates an even more fulfilling journey.

Access Information

From Hiroshima Airport

• Limousine bus to Hiroshima Station (approximately 45 minutes), then JR Kure Line to Kure Station (approximately 30 minutes)
• Or direct limousine bus to Kure Station (approximately 50 minutes, limited service)

By Shinkansen

• Exit at Hiroshima Station and take JR Kure Line Express to Kure Station (approximately 30 minutes)
• Or take the “Kure Line” express bus from Hiroshima Bus Center to Kure Station (approximately 45 minutes)

By Car

• About 40 minutes from Hiroshima City via National Route 31
• About 40 minutes from “Hiroshima-Higashi IC” on the Sanyo Expressway
• Multiple paid parking lots are available around the Yamato Museum

Transportation Within Kure

Transportation within Kure is well-served by local bus services including “Kure City Bus” and “Hiroden Bus.” A one-day pass (approximately 500 yen) makes travel convenient. Most major spots are within walking distance, so pilgrimage by foot is also possible.

Bicycle rentals are available at the tourist information office in front of Kure Station. Electric-assisted bicycles make navigating Kure’s hilly terrain comfortable.

Accommodation Information

Hotels in Kure

• Kure Hankyu Hotel: 5 minutes walk from Kure Station, conveniently located near the Yamato Museum
• Clayton Bay Hotel: Overlooks Kure Harbor with oceanview rooms available
• Comfort Hotel Kure: Affordable and clean with complimentary breakfast
• Business Hotel Seifuu: Local business hotel with excellent value

Advance reservations are recommended for weekends and Kancolle collaboration event periods due to congestion. Alternatively, staying in Hiroshima and making a day trip to Kure is an option.

Dining Information

Navy Curry

A must-try when visiting Kure is “Navy Curry,” recreated from former Imperial Japanese Navy recipes. Each restaurant adds its own original arrangements. The café “Yamato” inside the Yamato Museum also serves it and is popular with Kancolle fans.

Kure Cold Noodles

Known as a Kure local specialty, “Kure Cold Noodles” consists of flat Chinese noodles topped with a sweet and sour sauce. Particularly popular in summer, it’s served at Chinese restaurants throughout the city.

Birthplace of Nikujaga

Kure is considered the birthplace of “Nikujaga” (potato and meat stew) – a claim also disputed by Maizuru, Kyoto. Admiral Togo Heihachiro reportedly devised this as an onboard meal, and as cuisine connected to the navy, it’s served at various restaurants in the city.

Oyster Cuisine

Hiroshima Prefecture boasts Japan’s highest oyster production, and Kure and surrounding areas offer fresh oyster dishes. While seasonal (winter), fried oysters and oyster hot pot are exquisite.

Merchandise and Souvenirs Information

Yamato Museum Shop

Kancolle collaboration merchandise is occasionally sold, though not permanently stocked, so verify during your visit. Books about Yamato, models, and stationery are well-stocked and enjoyable even for non-Kancolle fans.

Shopping Streets in Kure

Shopping streets around Kure Station occasionally sell limited-edition merchandise during Kancolle collaboration events. Even normally, stores dealing in naval merchandise and Kure souvenirs are available, making shopping exploration enjoyable.

Recommended Souvenirs

• Kure Navy Curry (retort-packaged): Recreate navy curry at home
• Yamato Merchandise: Keychains, clear files, T-shirts, and more
• Kure Cold Noodles (dried noodles): Enjoy Kure’s flavors at home
• Warship Models: From plastic models to precision models with extensive selection

Notes and Etiquette for Holy Land Pilgrimages

Photography Etiquette

• Photography requires care near current JSDF facilities like the former Kure Chinjufu Headquarters and Arei Kara Sukoijima
• Avoid detailed photography using telephoto lenses; limit yourself to general commemorative photos
• Always follow instructions from security personnel and JSDF staff

Etiquette at Commemorative Sites

• Kure City Naval Cemetery is a place for commemoration, not tourism
• Refrain from loud conversation or disrespectful behavior
• Always take trash with you and maintain quiet respect

Consideration for Local Residents

• Avoid loud voices in residential areas and activities during early morning or late evening
• Do not trespass on private property without permission
• Remember this is the living space of local residents

Crowd Management During Events

• Kancolle collaboration event periods bring significant crowds
• Early reservations at accommodations and dining establishments are essential
• Expect public transportation congestion and allow extra time for travel

How to Obtain Kancolle Event Information

Official Sources

• Kancolle Official Twitter: Latest collaboration information is announced first
• Kure City Tourism Association Official Website: Confirms events held in Kure
• Yamato Museum Official Website: Lists special exhibitions and event information

Fan Communities

Kancolle fan SNS communities and blogs share pilgrimage reports and latest information. Checking before visiting provides efficient pilgrimage routes and information about lesser-known spots.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Hiroshima City

Hiroshima is approximately 30 minutes from Kure by train. The city offers numerous world heritage tourist destinations including the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine). Combining holy land pilgrimage with Hiroshima sightseeing is recommended.

Takehara

Known as “Little Kyoto of Aki,” Takehara is a tourist destination famous for its beautiful historic townscape. Also known as a holy site for the anime “Tamayura,” it’s about 40 minutes by car from Kure.

Shimanami Kaido

The Shimanami Kaido, connecting Seto Inland Sea islands, is famous as a cycling holy site. About one hour by car from Kure, it offers breathtaking scenic drives and cycling opportunities.

Conclusion: What You Gain from Kancolle Holy Land Pilgrimage

A Kancolle holy land pilgrimage centered on Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, holds meaning beyond that of typical game fan tourism. Visitors can physically experience the history of real warships, the efforts of period technicians and crew members, and the horrors of war and the value of peace.

By learning about the actual vessels the Kanmusu represent in-game—where they were built, how they operated, and what fates befell them—one’s understanding and affection for Kancolle deepens considerably.

When standing beneath the 1/10 scale Yamato at the Yamato Museum, walking through the cramped corridors of a submarine at Tetsu no Kujira Museum, or standing before the former Kure Chinjufu Headquarters building, admirals may hear the “voices” of the Kanmusu.

Kure is a city that warmly welcomes Kancolle fans. If you observe etiquette and approach holy sites with respect, it will surely become an unforgettable memory. Why not plan a holy land pilgrimage to Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, during your next vacation?

Admirals, we await you at Kure Chinjufu!