Kokopo War Museum

Perched on a hillside overlooking the turquoise waters of Simpson Harbour, the Kokopo War Museum is a gritty, absorbing trove of Pacific War history. The sprawling open-air collection of rusting aircraft wrecks, artillery pieces, and personal memorabilia—much of it left to decay in the jungle for decades—offers an unvarnished glimpse into the brutal WWII campaigns that raged across New Britain. For history buffs and travellers fascinated by the war in the Pacific, this is an essential stop that feels more like a discovery than a curated exhibition.

Highlights & What to See

• B-25 Mitchell Bomber Wreckage – The mangled remains of a USAAF Mitchell, its fuselage riddled with bullet holes, lie half-buried in the grass—a haunting relic of the air war.
• Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go Tank – A rusted, battle-scarred light tank that saw action on the island, now sitting silent among the palms.
• Personal Artefacts & Photographs – Inside the small museum building, faded photos, letters, and uniforms bring the human stories of soldiers and locals to life.
• Simpson Harbour Views – From the museum grounds you can gaze across the harbour to the volcanoes that loom over Rabaul, the same view that Allied and Japanese forces once fought to control.
• Outdoor Aircraft Display – Dozens of aircraft engines, propellers, and partial airframes—including a Japanese Zero—are scattered around the site, each with a story.

Suggested Time to Spend

Set aside 1.5 to 2 hours to properly explore the outdoor exhibits and the indoor gallery. The site is largely unshaded, so visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the tropical heat. Combine it with a half-day trip from Rabaul (a 20-minute drive) to make the most of your time in the region.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Rabaul – The nearby town, devastated by the 1994 volcanic eruption, offers eerie sights like the half-buried Rabaul Hotel and the active Tavurvur volcano.
• Tavurvur Volcano – A short boat ride or 4WD track brings you to the foot of this still-smoking cone; guided treks to the crater rim are available.
• Japanese Barge Tunnels – A network of tunnels carved into the cliffs around Rabaul harbour, used by the Japanese to shelter landing craft during the war.
• Duke of York Islands – A stunning chain of coral islands a 30-minute boat ride from Kokopo, perfect for snorkelling, beachcombing, and a taste of island life.
• Bitapaka War Cemetery – A serene Commonwealth war cemetery 10 km south of Kokopo, beautifully maintained and deeply moving.

Please check official sources for current details.