Find out When and Where Japanese Navy Ships will Arrive in Panama.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Training Squadron will arrive in Panama this August as part of its international training, which includes a journey of approximately 30,400 miles and stops in five countries.  The ships JS Kashima (TV-3508) and JS Yamagiri (TV-3515) are scheduled to arrive at the Amador Cruise Port, where a welcome ceremony will be held on August 23, starting at 10:00 am.  The visit is part of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force’s 70th Overseas Training Cruise, which began on May 16 and will run until October 24, 2026.  The vessels carry approximately 484 officers and crew members, including 178 new officers who graduated this year from the Naval Officer Candidate School.

The guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90), left, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyers JS Yamayuki (DD-129) and JS Yamagiri (DD-152) conduct formation drills during a passing exercise. 

According to information provided by the Embassy of Japan in Panama, the program aims to help newly commissioned officers develop their navigation skills through at-sea training, broaden their international experience, and strengthen relations with the countries included in the tour.  During the voyage, the ships will visit 11 ports in the United States, Iceland, Canada, Panama, and Mexico . In addition to Amador, the itinerary includes Pearl Harbor, San Diego, New York, Norfolk, Reykjavik, Halifax, Manzanillo, Vancouver, Anchorage, and Dutch Harbor.  As part of the activities during the stopover in Panama, the Training Squadron’s Music Band will offer a free concert on August 25, at 3:00 pm, in the Koala Corridor of Albrook Mall. 

JS Yamagiri In Cruise

The group participating in this year’s tour consists of 18 musicians.  He is also part of the Shouzui-Daiko delegation, a group dedicated to the performance of wa-daiko, the name given to traditional Japanese drums.  The group was created in 1999 and currently has 40 members: 14 crew members from the JS Kashima and 26 officers in training. Its members change every year and participate in activities designed to promote Japanese culture during the squadron’s international voyages.  The name Shouzui refers to a favorable event or an omen of good fortune.