Biak Numfor Regency in Papua not only has natural tourist attractions but also historical tourism, especially related to World War II.
One tourism site, Gua Lima Kamar or the Five Chamber Cave is one of the interesting tourist destinations in Papua to visit when in Biak Numfor Regency. The Five Chamber Cave is located in Ruar village, East Biak District, Biak Numfor Regency, Papua. To reach the location, visitors can take a journey of about 15 minutes from the centre of Biak City.
The cave located in the Ruar village was once used as a place of hiding and hospital for Japanese soldiers. The five chambers found within this cave all had various functions, ranging from an emergency treatment location to a washing area.
Since each room had a specific function in its time, this cave served as both a strategic hiding place and a military hospital. In every corner and crevice, the five chambers within hold traces of heroic tales, suffering, and military tactics that have been etched in the history in Papua, as has been quoted in various sources.
During the Japanese occupation in the Pacific region, Biak Island held a strategic position as one of Japan’s defensive strongholds. Its location near the main shipping routes and direct access to the Pacific Ocean made Biak an easy target for the Allies.
To safeguard this position, the Japanese forces built various military infrastructures, including bunkers, airstrips, and protective caves. The Five Chamber Cave, with its natural labyrinthine shape, was converted into a shelter for Japanese soldiers. it has its own uniqueness because each room is designed with a specific function. The first room, located at the entrance, is used as a guard post as well as an ammunition storage.
https://rri.co.id/wisata/1345785/goa-lima-kamar-biak-papua-saksi-bisu-riwayat-perang-dunia-ii
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