The Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed in Tokyo Bay in 1945.
The ceremony took place on the deck of USS Missouri, which was anchored in the bay on September 2. Tokyo Bay provided a secure location close to Japan’s capital while allowing the Allied fleet to display its control of the waters surrounding the country.
The location also carried historical symbolism. Missouri was positioned near the area where Commodore Matthew Perry’s American squadron had anchored in 1853. Perry’s expedition helped lead to the Convention of Kanagawa, which opened Japan to American trade after a long period of restricted foreign contact.
Around 250 Allied ships were present in or near the bay during the surrender ceremony. Aircraft also flew overhead. The bay should not be confused with Sagami Bay, where many Allied vessels had gathered before entering Tokyo Bay. Tokyo Bay is the specific location associated with the signing itself.