Itsukushima (PL 23)
The Japan Coast Guard ship Itsukushima (IMO 9942251 🇯🇵) was commissioned in 2024. She is a patrol vessel which functions as a training ship for cadets from the Japan Coast Guard Academy. She replaces her predecessor, Kojima (PL 21), in this role.
The ship is named after Itsukushima (also known as Miyajima), which is an island in Hiroshima Bay. It is known for being the location of the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its iconic torii (gate).
Itsukushima arrived in Honolulu Harbor for the first time on 21 May 2025 after visiting San Francisco, California and conducting exercises off the California coast in conjunction with the United States Coast Guard. She departed on 26 May.
Itsukushima alongside Pier 2C, Honolulu Harbor. 24 May 2025.
A digital sign on Itsukushima with the message “I love Hawaii” along with the Japan Coast Guard mascot Umimaru (a harp seal in uniform). It was part of scrolling text that read: “Maharo!! [sic] Thank you for the beautiful memories. I love Hawaii” 26 May 2025.
Itsukushima moving off Pier 2C. 26 May 2025.
Itsukushima crew, including six USCG cadets, saying goodbye. 26 May 2025.
Small local contingent at Pier 2 seeing Itsukushima off. 26 May 2025.
Itsukushima turning in the basin, assisted by Foss Maritime tug Pi‘ilani. 26 May 2025.
Itsukushima heading out to sea with Pi‘ilani off her port quarter. Hawaii Pilots Association pilot boat Ahua Point is off her starboard quarter. 26 May 2025.
