Guide
Shiiroi Ichigo Entai-go Historical Park is a significant site located in Usa City, Oita Prefecture, preserving the remains of "entai-go" (aircraft hangars) built to protect military aircraft from air raids. Construction began around August 1944, and the facility features impressive dimensions: 21.6 meters wide, 14.6 meters deep, and 5.4 meters high. These structures serve as a tangible record of the military engineering of that era. In 1995, the site was officially designated as a historical site of Usa City.
These hangars were constructed to shield aircraft from aerial attacks during World War II. A fascinating feature of this site is the variation in construction techniques between the front and rear sections. The front part utilizes a method where concrete is poured into a mold, while the rear section employs a technique involving pouring concrete into earth-filled structures. To provide camouflage from aerial observation, the top of the hangars was covered with thick layers of earth and vegetation. Historical American aerial photographs provide further evidence of how these protective technologies functioned in practice.
The park features several important exhibits and monuments. Most notably, the interior of the hangar houses an original engine from a Zero Fighter (A6M Zero) that was recovered from the off-shore waters of Kunisaki, allowing visitors to examine the aircraft's engine up close. Additionally, the park contains a stone monument inscribed with the names of 154 kamikaze pilots who departed from Usa, as well as a memorial stone featuring calligraphy by Todaiji Betsu. These elements serve as vital records of the wartime period. A Dogwood tree, a gift from the United States, also stands in the park as a symbol of friendship and a prayer for peace.
The park is open 24 hours a day, allowing for visits at any time. Every year on August 15th, the "Flame of Peace" ceremony is held in front of the memorial stone. This is a significant time for remembering the fallen and raising awareness for peace. Throughout the seasons, the park offers a quiet, contemplative environment for observing these historical ruins.
Visitors can learn about the technological and historical background of the era by observing the actual structure of the hangars and the Zero Fighter engine. Walking through the park to visit various monuments provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the importance of peace. The site offers a direct, tactile way to experience history while surrounded by nature.
Usa City is home to 11 other remaining hangars. It is said that these hangars were positioned with different entrance directions to maximize ballistic protection. A visit to Shiroi Ichigo Entai-go is a perfect starting point for a journey through the local military history of the region.
As the park contains unpaved paths and uneven surfaces, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. While there is no entrance fee to the park, please carry cash if you plan to use nearby facilities. English-language signage is limited, so reviewing the history in advance is helpful. The site includes a parking area with space for approximately 7 standard vehicles.