Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial

The memorial holds the somber distinction of being the first community in the United States from which Japanese Americans were forcibly removed under Executive Order 9066 during World War II. It commemorates the 276 individuals exiled from Bainbridge Island on March 30, 1942, and serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of democratic values, embodying the motto "Nidoto Nai Yoni" – "Let It Not Happen Again."

Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to experience the memorial fully. This allows time to walk the Memorial Wall, reflect at the Exclusion Departure Deck, and engage with the interpretive exhibits and oral histories available on-site.

Yes, the memorial is designed to be wheelchair accessible. It features pathways and wooden boardwalks that meander through the site, ensuring that all visitors can experience the Memorial Wall, the Exclusion Departure Deck, and other key features.

While the memorial itself is a contemplative site with pathways, it is located within Pritchard Park, which offers some walking opportunities. For cyclists, the route from the Winslow Ferry Terminal to the memorial, approximately 3.8 miles, can be hilly. The broader Bainbridge Island offers numerous trails and routes for both hiking and cycling if you wish to extend your outdoor activity.

Parking is available directly at the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, located within Pritchard Park at 4192 Eagle Harbor Drive NE. It's advisable to arrive earlier on busy days, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.

Yes, the memorial is suitable for families. While it addresses a serious historical topic, the outdoor setting, pathways, and interpretive elements can be engaging for older children. For younger children, parents may wish to provide context beforehand. It's a place for quiet reflection, so encouraging respectful behavior is key.

Generally, dogs on leashes are permitted in outdoor public spaces like Pritchard Park where the memorial is located. However, visitors should always be mindful of other guests and ensure their pets are well-behaved and that any waste is properly disposed of.

Key features include the 276-foot Memorial Wall, crafted from old-growth red cedar and granite, bearing the names of those exiled. Along the wall, five terracotta friezes depict the community's story. The Exclusion Departure Deck, a 45-foot cantilevered wooden structure, extends over the beach at the historic ferry dock location, offering a poignant sense of the forced departure.

Bainbridge Island offers several other historical and cultural attractions. You might consider visiting the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial Exhibit at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, or exploring the charming town of Winslow with its shops and eateries. The island also has beautiful parks and natural areas for outdoor enjoyment.

The primary public transport option to Bainbridge Island is the Washington State Ferry from Seattle to Winslow. From the Winslow Ferry Terminal, the memorial is approximately 3.8 miles away. While it's a bit far to walk for most, local bus services or ride-sharing options are available on the island to reach the memorial from the terminal.

"Nidoto Nai Yoni" (二度とないように) is a Japanese phrase meaning "Let It Not Happen Again." This powerful motto encapsulates the memorial's mission to ensure that the injustices of the Japanese American exclusion and incarceration during World War II are never repeated. It serves as a universal message against prejudice and the violation of civil liberties.