What is Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park?
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a special park located in Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, dedicated to commemorating the victims of the atomic bomb and praying for world peace.
On August 6, 1945, during World War II, an atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima.
This park is situated near the hypocenter of the blast and was developed as a symbol of peace after the war.
Within the vast grounds, there are numerous cenotaphs and monuments, including the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, attracting many visitors from around the world.
It is a place where you can learn about history and feel the importance of peace.
Highlights of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
1. Atomic Bomb Dome
The Atomic Bomb Dome, located right next to the park, is one of the buildings affected by the atomic bombing in 1945.
Despite being severely damaged by the blast and heat rays, its framework remains, continuing to convey the tragedy of that time.
In 1996, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a symbol to prevent the fading of war memories.
It is illuminated at night, offering a serene beauty different from its daytime appearance.
2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is a facility exhibiting the realities of the atomic bomb damage, the lives of the survivors, and the history of that time.
- Survivors' belongings
- Photographs and video materials
- The state of Hiroshima after the bomb
These exhibits leave a deep impact on visitors, strongly appealing for the importance of peace.
With explanations available in English and other languages, international visitors can easily learn about the history.
3. Flame of Peace
Located at the center of the park, the Flame of Peace is a fire lit with the wish to "keep burning until the day nuclear weapons are abolished."
It is positioned along the axis from the Peace Memorial Museum to the Atomic Bomb Dome, serving as a central presence in the entire Peace Memorial Park.
4. Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims
The Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims was erected to console the spirits of those who perished in the atomic bombing and to pray for peace.
The stone monument is inscribed with "Rest in Peace, for we shall not repeat the error," embodying a pledge for peace.
It is designed so that the Atomic Bomb Dome is visible from the center of the cenotaph, delivering a strong message to visitors.
5. Children's Peace Monument
The Children's Peace Monument was built to honor the children who died from the bombing and to express hopes for peace.
The model for the statue is Sadako Sasaki, a girl who died of leukemia ten years after the bombing.
The thousand paper cranes she continued to fold in her hospital bed have become a "symbol of peace," and cranes from around the world are now offered here.
How to Spend Time at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
1. Leisurely stroll through the park
With many monuments scattered throughout the park, taking your time to stroll around is recommended.
The cenotaphs and monuments have explanations in English, allowing you to feel the history and wishes for peace as you explore.
2. Offer a message of peace
The park has a space for offering paper cranes, where visitors can fold a thousand cranes with wishes for peace.
Additionally, you can express respect for the victims and thoughts of peace by offering a moment of silence.
3. Visit nearby tourist spots
Located in the city center, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is within walking distance of the following attractions.
- Hiroshima Castle: A symbol of Hiroshima with a beautifully restored keep.
- Okonomimura: A spot to enjoy Hiroshima’s famous "okonomiyaki."
Access to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Access by Train
- From JR Hiroshima Station, take the Hiroshima Electric Railway (city tram) "Line 2" or "Line 6."
- Get off at the "Atomic Bomb Dome-mae" stop, and it’s about a 3-minute walk to the park.
Access by Bus
- Get off at the Hiroshima Bus "Peace Memorial Park-mae" bus stop, and it’s a short walk away.
Access on Foot
Since it is within walking distance from the city center, strolling while heading to the park is also recommended.
Useful Information for Travelers
Operating Hours and Admission Fees
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
- Admission Fee: 200 yen for adults / 100 yen for high school students / free for elementary and junior high school students
Best Season to Visit
Spring (March to April) or autumn (October to November) is ideal for visiting, when cherry blossoms or autumn leaves beautify the park.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring the park comfortably.
- Camera: Capture the beautiful monuments and seasonal landscapes, like cherry blossoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How long does it take to visit?
A. Including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, it takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
Q. Is there information available in English?
A. Yes, the museum and information centers provide English brochures and audio guides.
Q. Is there an admission fee?
A. The Peace Memorial Park itself is free, but there is a fee for the Peace Memorial Museum.
Conclusion
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a special place that ensures the past tragedies are not forgotten and communicates the importance of peace to the future.
By visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum, you can learn about history while praying for world peace.
If you visit Hiroshima, be sure to stop by this park and feel the preciousness of peace.
It will be an unforgettable travel experience.
