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Historic site · Rabaul, East New Britain
Japanese Barge Tunnels
Tunnels dug by the Japanese on the slope of Karavia Bay, between Rabaul and Kokopo, to hide landing barges from air attacks; the main tunnel shelters the remains of five barges lined up.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Japanese Barge Tunnels
The barge tunnels are in Karavia Bay, south of Rabaul, on the road to Kokopo. They are part of the network of tunnels the Japanese dug on the Gazelle Peninsula during World War II to protect personnel, hospitals, ammunition and equipment from Allied bombing.
The barges were used to carry soldiers and supplies along the coast and were stored inside the rock, away from the planes. In the main tunnel, the remains of five rusted barges remain lined up, one behind the other.
The entrance is on a vegetation-covered slope a few meters from the road. Visits are usually made with a guide, and the interior is dark.
The stop is often part of day tours between Kokopo and Rabaul, together with Yamamoto’s bunker and the Tavurvur volcano.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes.
Best time
At any time of day, on the route between Kokopo and Rabaul.
How to get there
It’s on the road between Kokopo and Rabaul, in Karavia Bay. Rabaul tours usually stop there.
Tip
Bring a flashlight and closed shoes: the tunnel floor can be wet and uneven. Ask the guide if there is an entrance contribution to pay.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Japanese Barge Tunnels
What are Rabaul’s barge tunnels?
Tunnels dug by the Japanese in World War II to hide landing barges from air attacks. In the main tunnel, the remains of five barges remain lined up.
Where are the barge tunnels located?
In Karavia Bay, south of Rabaul, on the road to Kokopo.
Do you need a guide to visit the barge tunnels?
Visits are usually part of guided tours between Kokopo and Rabaul. The interior is dark, and a flashlight is helpful.