On what date in 1945 did Japan formally sign its surrender document?

Japan formally signed its surrender document on September 2, 1945.

The ceremony took place on the deck of the American battleship USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu signed for the emperor and government, while General Yoshijirō Umezu signed for Imperial General Headquarters. Allied representatives then added their signatures.

General Douglas MacArthur, the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, accepted the surrender on behalf of the Allied powers. The ceremony began shortly after 9 a.m. and lasted about 23 minutes. At 9:25 a.m., the proceedings were complete, marking the formal conclusion of World War II’s main hostilities with Japan.

The date is often called V-J Day, meaning Victory over Japan Day. It is distinct from August 15, when Hirohito announced Japan’s decision to accept the Allied terms. Some countries commemorate the announcement, while others emphasize the signing ceremony. The document also established the framework for the Allied occupation and Japan’s disarmament.