Listen closely. Countless soldiers once stood where we are now at No.2 Pier.
No.2 Pier bears silent witness to Hiroshima’s military history. This pier saw countless soldiers dispatched to war. Many never returned, except as ashes.
Built in 1889, Ujina Port served Japan’s Imperial Army. It was vital during the Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War. Rokkan Pier, built in 1902, played a pivotal role until 1945. This whole area bustled with military activity. The Army Marine Headquarters was located at Ujina Port during World War II.
Ujina Port’s importance grew with the First Sino-Japanese War. A rail line connected the main station to the harbor. This allowed easy military transport. Emperor Meiji even moved his headquarters to Hiroshima Castle. He stayed there from September 1894 to April 1895.
After World War II, No.2 Pier became a dock for the Japan Coast Guard. Later, a new sea berth was constructed. It was for large luxury cruise ships. No.2 Pier became part of a seawall.
Ujina Port is now known as Hiroshima Port. The name changed, but the pier’s legacy remains. No.2 Pier stands as the last of its kind. It is an important historical and architectural piece.
Remember No.2 Pier. Remember the soldiers who departed. Remember Hiroshima’s journey from military hub to a city of peace.