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Tarawa War Cemetery
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monument
The Tarawa War Cemetery is located on Betio Island, the site of one of the most ferocious battles in the Pacific Theater during World War II. In November 1943, US Marines engaged in a brutal amphibious assault against heavily fortified Japanese positions; the ensuing conflict resulted in heavy casualties and provided crucial lessons for future island-hopping operations. The memorial site serves as a solemn tribute to the thousands of lives lost on both sides of the conflict. In addition to the plaques honoring American servicemen, the site uniquely incorporates a Japanese memorial, symbolizing a shared commitment to peace and post-war reconciliation. Because many soldiers remained unaccounted for in the chaotic aftermath of the battle, the cemetery stands as a crucial site of remembrance for the unidentified fallen. Today, it hosts regular international ceremonies where representatives from former warring nations gather to pay their respects, surrounded by the still-visible remnants of bunkers and coastal defense guns scattered across Betio.
- Location: Kiribati
- Top sights: marewen teriki · Beniera Uniting Church · Kaotitaeka Church
- Nearby: Bairiki Business District (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 212 | 157 | 220 | 171 | 103 | 136 | 119 | 107 | 92 | 95 | 95 | 208 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Tarawa War Cemetery is a memorial site on South Tarawa that can be visited at any time. Visitors can view the graves and monuments of fallen soldiers from both sides.
Typical hours
The cemetery is open 24/7 with no closing times. However, it is recommended to come during daylight hours to view the memorial peacefully.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the cemetery, but respectfully ask permission if other mourners are present. The headstones and manicured lawn are impressive subjects.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 30 minutes to one hour to walk around and read the inscriptions. For deeper reflection, allow more time.
Combine with
Combine the cemetery with other Battle of Tarawa sites, such as the bunkers along the coast. Also nearby Betio War Memorial is worth visiting.
Getting there
The cemetery is located along the main road of South Tarawa, near the government district. It is easily reached by taxi or minibus, also walkable from nearby villages.
Insider tip
Bring sunscreen and a hat as the cemetery has little shade. Take time to read the names on the memorial plaques that bring history to life.
Geography
Facts
- Number of graves: approximately 1,000
- Established: 1944
- Maintained by: Commonwealth War Graves Commission
- Location: Betio, near Red Beach
- Fallen from: Battle of Tarawa (Nov 1943)
- Open to public: yes
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Tarawa War Cemetery (7)
SDA Betio Church
Seventh-day Adventist church in Betio, a place of prayer.
Domestic Ferry Pier
Pier for domestic ferries in Tarawa, connecting the atolls.
LDS CHURCH
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a house of worship in Tarawa.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Tarawa War Cemetery?
A memorial site in Betio for those who died in the Battle of Tarawa, especially for US soldiers and Japanese defenders.
Are all fallen US soldiers buried here?
Many were repatriated to the USA after the war. Today, the site serves primarily as a memorial for the missing and the fallen.
Are there also Japanese monuments there?
Yes, nearby there are shrines and monuments erected by Japan to honor their dead.
When do memorial services take place?
Major ceremonies are held annually around November 20th, the anniversary of the start of the battle.
Is the site easy for visitors to find?
Yes, it is centrally located in Betio. Any local taxi driver knows the way there.
Tarawa War Cemetery: where is it located?
Tarawa War Cemetery is located in Kiribati.
Tarawa War Cemetery: what is there to see?
Highlights include marewen teriki, Beniera Uniting Church, Kaotitaeka Church.
Tarawa War Cemetery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Tarawa War Cemetery: why is it worth visiting?
The Tarawa War Cemetery is located on Betio Island, the site of one of the most ferocious battles in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
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More places
Betio Japanese Command Post
A massive concrete bunker from World War II that served as the headquarters for Japanese defenders during the Battle of Tarawa.
Coast Watchers Memorial
A memorial honoring the New Zealand and British coast watchers who were executed by Japanese forces in Betio in 1942.
Betio Coast Defense Guns
These heavy Japanese coastal defense guns date back to World War II.
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Japanese Command Bunker
This massive concrete bunker served as the Japanese command center in 1943.
Australian War Memorial
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Betio Port
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