Ship History
Built in 1938 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as a passenger/cargo carrier for the Yamashita Kisen Line. Launched on May 3, 1939. The Japanese Navy took control of her in September 1941 and converted her to a military transport for use in moving special cargo.

Wartime History
Served transporting war material between the Solomons and the Carolines until she was hit with two torpedoes from the USS Drum in 1943. The repair of this damage can still be seen on the port side of hold number two.

Sinking History
The Yamagiri Maru was sunk by dive bombers from the carriers USS Yorktown and Bunker Hill in Truk Lagoon. American aircraft dropped bombs from 500', hits rocked the ship with a huge explosion sinking. They reported several hits and left a huge hole amidships that certainly finished off Yamagiri Maru.

Shipwreck
The wreck is at 50 - 110'. No. 5 hold contains 18.1" armor piercing shells for Yamato and Mushashi. Each shell weighs 3219 lbs and could be hurled 23 miles.

Also, loading equipment, machinery, air compressors. The aft hold has only 55 gallon drums. The bridge is empty, except for some beer bottles, and a large encrusted bronze ship whistle. The forward holds are empty but ship's name is clearly visible on the bow and there is a large gun.