Japanese Tunnel | Davao City

Information

Landmark: Japanese Tunnel
City: Davao City
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

Japanese Tunnel, Davao City, Philippines, Asia

The Japanese Tunnel is a historic site and leisure complex located along the Diversion Road in Matina, Davao City. It preserves a segment of the underground tunnel network created during World War II.

Visual Characteristics

The site features an underground tunnel system carved manually into the volcanic soil. The tunnels are dimly lit, with narrow passageways, wooden support beams, and various chambers. Life-size dioramas and statues of Japanese soldiers and prisoners are positioned within the tunnel to depict wartime conditions. The exterior above-ground area is developed into a resort with a restaurant, a swimming pool, and concrete pathways surrounded by tropical plants.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Hillcrest Subdivision, Diversion Rd, Matina, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur.

Access: Located directly along the Davao City Diversion Road.

Transport:

Private Vehicle/Taxi: Approximately 15–20 minutes from the city center.

Public Transport: Take a jeepney to Matina and hire a tricycle, or take a taxi directly to the gate.

Entry: Admission requires an entrance fee to access the tunnel and the resort facilities.

Historical & Cultural Origin

The tunnel was part of a larger network excavated by the Japanese Imperial Forces and forced laborers between 1942 and 1945. It served as a hideout, storage facility for armaments, and a strategic passageway during the Japanese occupation of Davao. It was rediscovered during the construction of the road and later developed into a private resort to preserve the remaining accessible sections.

Key Highlights & Activities

Tunnel Exploration: A guided walk through a 300-meter section of the historical tunnel.

Wartime Dioramas: Reconstructions of offices, living quarters, and storage areas used by Japanese officers.

Artifacts: Displays of preserved wartime items such as helmets, water canteens, and weapons.

Statues: Life-size figures of soldiers and "comfort women" provide a visual narrative of the occupation history.

Resort Amenities: Includes a restaurant serving Filipino cuisine and a swimming pool for day-use guests.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility includes a full-service restaurant, hotel rooms for overnight stays, a swimming pool, and public restrooms. The tunnel itself is reinforced for safety but remains narrow in some areas. 5G cellular coverage is excellent at the surface.

Best Time to Visit

Operating Hours: Daily from 08:00 to 20:00.

Weekdays: Ideal for a quieter exploration of the tunnels.

Daytime: Best for photography and visiting the resort facilities.

Facts & Legends

It is believed that the tunnel network once spanned several kilometers, potentially connecting different parts of the city and even reaching as far as the Davao Gulf. Local rumors often associate these tunnels with "Yamashita’s Gold," though no significant treasure has ever been officially documented at this site.