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Saitozaki
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Saitozaki is a small village, and is located a mile or so from what was the back gate of Camp Hakata. It was then a fishing village and catered to the needs of the average airman, sailor and soldier, as well as providing living quarters for GI families waiting for houses on base.
Although it still relies on fishing, Saitozaki has grown into a small town, thanks in part to the Marine World that now stands where Camp Hakata once existed. The picture above was taken of Saitozaki from the Hakata Bay shore of the base.
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The old ferry boat (at right), which carried passengers between Fukuoka and Saitozaki, and on to Shikanoshima, has been replaced by a modern version. However, I'm sure this one holds many fond memories for all of us who traveled aboard her. By-the-way, the name of the boat, as indicated on its bow, is #5 Shikanoshima Maru. |
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The GI's first view of Saitozaki, however, was the Shamrock Club, the most noticeable building as one comes into town from base. It was a GI bar, and several were located in Saitozaki, such as the Last Chance (pictured below) Beachcomer, Green Dragon, Stand, Starlight, and others. |
B-girls provided GI's with female companionship in these establishments, and one could acquire more personal services for a very reasonable price. In fact, the GI name for the village was Shack-ozaki.
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Since there was no bed-check on base, many GIs, including myself rented
rooms, apartments, or houses off-base, mostly in Saitozaki, but also in Gannosu.
At one time, I rented one of the largest houses in town for about $15 a month,
and later had the newest house in town for $25 a month. Several of my buddies
and my best friend had homes in the village. |