Historic Sites

Alley Karasukojima (アレイからすこじま)

Alley Karasukojima is the only park in Japan where you can see submarines up close. The name “Alley Karasukojima” comes from the name of a small island (built up by landfills in the Taisho era) called “Karasukojima,” which used to be located in Kure Bay and had a circumference of 30 to 40 meters. The “Alley” part comes from the English word for a small pathway. During World War II, the battleship Yamato was secretly manufactured near Alley Karasukojima, and you can be a first-hand witness to the history of Kure’s prosperity as a military city.

Moment of Joy

In the water by Alley Karasukojima park, you can actually see the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s submarines and destroyers that are docked. The park is also surrounded by retro brick buildings from Japan’s old navy era (about 70 years ago), which create a pleasant atmosphere for strolling around. Also on display are items related to the navy, such as a torpedo loading crane used when Kure was the primary base for Japan’s navy.