Christine Hitt
For the first time, the Honouliuli National Historic Site on Oahu is opening to the public for free guided tours, beginning July 18.
Honouliuli was the largest incarceration site in Hawaii during World War II, holding prisoners of war and hundreds of civilians, most of them of Japanese ancestry, after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Hidden in a remote Oahu gulch and nicknamed "Hell Valley" for its intense heat, the site remained largely forgotten until its rediscovery in 2002 and is now preserved as Honouliuli National Historic site to educate visitors about wartime incarceration and civil liberties.
"Tours are part of a series of special events and activities from June through September, developed with community partners to commemorate the site's history and expand public access," the national park service said in a news release.
The commemorative event includes documentary screenings, panel discussions, pop-up exhibits and a finale event on Sept. 27 at the Hawaii Theatre. Updates and information will be posted on the park's website and social media.
The three-hour guided tour begins at Hawaii Plantation Village, where a shuttle bus will pick up the group and take them to the camp. Once there, the guide will lead guests on a completely outdoor walking tour, where there is no shade or facilities, and visitors must be able to walk up and down a half-mile unpaved trail. The guide will show guests the historic structures and explain the history of the site.
Reservations are required, and available now on a first-come, first-served basis. All tours are held on Saturdays and have 22 seats available. Closed-toe footwear is required.