Okinawa: Navy Underground HQ Entry Ticket & Easy Access

Summary

Explore Okinawa’s wartime underground HQ with easy entry

You’ll walk through Okinawa’s historic Navy Underground Headquarters with a local guide handling your entry ticket and timing so you avoid crowds. Explore memorial rooms, see original wartime graffiti, and pause where history feels close enough to touch — moments you’ll remember long after leaving those tunnels behind.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we stepped down into the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters in Okinawa. The air changed right away — a bit cooler, kind of heavy, and there was this faint smell of old stone and something metallic. Our guide, Mr. Sato, waited at the entrance with a small smile and a stack of tickets (he handled everything, so no awkward cash scramble). He told us to watch our heads on the stairs — I did, but still managed to bump my shoulder on the wall. Guess that’s part of the experience.

Inside, it’s quiet except for the soft echo of footsteps and the occasional low voice from another group. There are photo panels and old maps along the walls; Mr. Sato pointed out names scratched into the concrete by soldiers who’d been stationed here. I tried to imagine what it felt like back then — cramped tunnels, barely any light, everyone waiting for news. It’s not a place you rush through. We paused in the memorial room for a while; someone had left fresh flowers near one of the plaques. That got to me more than I expected.

The resource room upstairs is brighter and has these old uniforms behind glass, plus some letters written home (in beautiful handwriting I couldn’t read). There were a few families with kids in strollers — it’s surprisingly accessible for such an old site. Mr. Sato answered questions patiently, even when I asked about something he’d just explained (sorry!). Afterward, we stepped back outside into humid Okinawa air and sunlight that felt almost too bright after those tunnels. I still think about that silence underground sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Former Navy HQ Memorial

• Explore resource room, basement, memorial, photo panel

Top questions

Is the Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the site is wheelchair accessible.

Are tickets available online or only in cash?

You can reserve online for smooth entry; onsite tickets are usually cash only.

Does this tour include an admission ticket?

Yes, your admission ticket is included with your reservation.

Can infants or small children visit?

Yes, infants and small children can use prams or strollers inside.

Are service animals allowed at the Navy HQ?

Yes, service animals are permitted at this site.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the headquarters.

How does group entry work if I book in advance?

Your guide will adjust timing so groups don’t enter together for a smoother visit.

What’s included

Your visit includes pre-booked admission to Okinawa’s Former Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters with local guidance at entry for smooth access — no need for cash on arrival. All ages and mobility levels are welcome; strollers and service animals are allowed throughout your time underground.