Etajima Island: Former Naval Academy and Beautiful Island Nature

On a quiet island floating in Hiroshima Bay stands a cluster of red-brick buildings that still convey the dignity of the Meiji era. Etajima, Hiroshima is a historic island known for the former Imperial Japanese Naval Academy, which trained the navy's officers. Modern history told by solemn architecture, together with the calm nature and daily life of the Seto Inland Sea, gives this island a deep appeal that rewards both historical walks and island scenery.

Highlights

Since the former Imperial Japanese Naval Academy moved here from Tsukiji, Tokyo in 1888, Etajima has been regarded as a "sacred ground of the navy" for training officers. Rigorous education was carried out, and many officers studied here. Today it houses the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force 1st Service School and Officer Candidate School, carrying on that history and tradition.

The chief attraction is the red-brick former student hall built in the Meiji period. Assembled brick by brick from bricks brought from Britain, it is a masterwork attesting to the high building technique of the time. Together with the solemn granite Great Lecture Hall and the Educational Reference Hall, which displays naval historical materials, the interiors can be toured with a staff-guided visit. It is a valuable chance to encounter modern Japanese history.

Seasonal Enjoyment

The island can be enjoyed year-round, but winter, when oysters are in season, and the mild spring and autumn are recommended. Clear waters, calm inlets, and warm-climate olive cultivation give the island a different face in each season. Coastal strolls, cycling, and summer swimming are also popular.

Access and Practical Information

Reach the island by ferry or high-speed boat from Hiroshima Port (Ujina) or Kure Port. Travel time is roughly 20 to 40 minutes, varying by route. Touring the former Naval Academy (1st Service School) is free of charge, but it is a guided visit with set start times that differ between weekdays and weekends and holidays. Visits may be canceled on days with events, so always inquire with the 1st Service School about the date and time in advance. The tour takes about one hour and thirty minutes.

Practical Travel Notes

Since you must complete reception at the main gate 10 to 30 minutes before the start time, plan with ample margin around the ferry schedule. Comfortable walking shoes are reassuring. Distances on the island can be considerable, so a rental bicycle or car helps you get around efficiently. For lunch, island eateries serving the local specialty oysters (grilled oysters, fried oysters, oyster hot pot, and more) are recommended. A half-day to full-day itinerary combining the historical tour with island cuisine is easy to arrange here.

A Word of Advice

Because the tour is time-specific and guided, the surest approach is to contact the 1st Service School first to confirm whether it is being held that day and at what time. Working backward through ferry, tour, and lunch times lets you comfortably enjoy both the red brick and the island pace of the Seto Inland Sea.

📚 Sources

The information in this article is organized from tourism details published by the city of Etajima and the Etajima tourism association, along with public guidance on the general tours of the former Naval Academy (now the JMSDF First Service School). Reception hours and tour content can be checked through the operator's official information. Fees, hours, and access may change, so please always confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About half a day including a facility tour and island stroll, or a full day once ferry travel is added.
• What to bring: Prepare cash for the ferry fare and meals, and comfortable shoes since the tour involves plenty of walking.
• Getting around: The island is mainly reached by ferry, so check the timetable in advance when planning.
• Suggested route: After arriving by ferry, center your visit on the former Naval Academy tour, then head out to the island's scenic and local-specialty spots.
• A note on touring: As this includes an active facility, follow the published tour guidance and etiquette.

Practical Information for Your Visit

This is the official information on public tours of the JMSDF 1st Service School (the former Imperial Japanese Naval Academy). You cannot walk around the grounds freely on your own; tours start at set times and are accompanied by a guide.

• Tour times (weekdays, 3 per day): 11:15-12:45 / 13:30-15:00 / 15:15-16:45
• Tour times (weekends and public holidays, 4 per day): 9:30-11:00 / 11:15-12:45 / 13:30-15:00 / 15:15-16:45
• Registration: Register at the main gate from 30 minutes before the tour starts (fill in the registration form). Groups of 49 people or fewer do not need to contact the school in advance; groups of 50 or more must do so
• When tours are cancelled: Tours may be cancelled for disaster relief deployments, school events, training and the like, and when stormy weather such as an approaching typhoon is expected. Always check the official website and official social media for the latest tour schedule before you visit
• Notes for visitors: Follow the guide's instructions / as a rule you cannot leave partway through the tour / photography is prohibited inside the Educational Reference Hall (Kyoiku Sankokan) / pets are not allowed on tours, with the exception of service dogs
• Inquiries: 1st Service School Public Relations Section, 0823-42-1211 (extension 2016). Phone hours: weekdays 8:30-12:00 / 13:00-16:45

Note: Tour fees and parking are not stated on the official tour information page.

(Sources: JMSDF 1st Service School official website, "Base Tours")