Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, located in Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, is a park dedicated to the memory of the victims and damage caused by the atomic bomb dropped at the end of World War II, and to pray for everlasting peace. It was built between the Motoyasu River and Honkawa River, which were the center of the area at the time of the bombing, and was developed based on the reconstruction plan of 1949.

The park is dotted with facilities and monuments that convey the reality of the atomic bombing, such as the Atomic Bomb Dome (formerly the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, later registered as a World Heritage Site), the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the Cenotaph (Hiroshima Peace Memorial, a memorial to the victims of the atomic bomb), the Flame of Peace (an eternal flame), and the Statue of a Child. The quiet green space and memorial facilities come together as a place of remembrance and peace education, attracting many visitors from both Japan and abroad.

Highlights

• Atomic Bomb Dome (near the Atomic Bomb Victims Memorial): The remains of the building at the time of the bombing have been preserved as they were, symbolizing the devastation of war and the atomic bomb. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (Peace Memorial Museum): Exhibits include the circumstances of the bombing, the actual damage, testimonies and personal belongings of the victims. The exhibits are important as educational materials for both Japan and overseas. Please be prepared when visiting due to the nature of the exhibits.
• Atomic Bomb Victims Memorial (Peace Memorial): An arch-shaped memorial monument commemorating the war victims. Inscribed in the center is the phrase "Rest in peace, for we will not repeat the mistake."
• Flame of Peace (near the Children's Peace Monument): A fire that was lit in 1964 and is said to continue burning until nuclear weapons are abolished.
• Children's Peace Monument and Paper Cranes (Children's Statue): A place where folded paper cranes are offered from both within Japan and overseas, inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki. Many folded paper cranes and wishes are collected here.
• Peace Bell and Memorial Monuments: A spot where visitors can ring the bell and pray quietly. There are also memorials donated by various countries scattered around the area.
• Trees and ponds along the Motoyasu River: There are walking paths and benches where you can spend some quiet time.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest tram stop (streetcar)：The Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) "Genbaku Dome-mae" tram stop is right in front of the park. It's convenient and easy to find.
• When using JRFrom JR Hiroshima Station, transfer to the Hiroden (streetcar) and get off at Genbaku Dome-mae (approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic). It is also about a 30-40 minute walk.
• bus: Hiroshima buses and tourist buses also pass through nearby bus stops, but the most convenient way is by streetcar.
• From Hiroshima Airport: Take the limousine bus from Hiroshima Airport to Hiroshima Bus Center (approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour), then take the streetcar, walk, or take the bus.
• Cars and parkingThere are paid parking lots in the area, but the number of spaces is limited and it is recommended to use public transportation as it can get crowded especially during peak tourist seasons and on ceremony days.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• A quick tour of the park's main spots (Atomic Bomb Dome area, the memorial monument, and the children's statue): 30 minutes to 1 hour
• If you want to take your time to visit the Peace Memorial Museum: 1.5 to 2 hours (more than 2 hours if you want to thoroughly look at the exhibits)
• Sightseeing the entire park and surrounding area (museum + walking around the area + meal): 2 to 4 hours
• If you also visit nearby tourist spots (Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, Miyajima): Half a day to a full day

Nearby spots

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial MuseumLocated inside the park, it's a must-see.
• Hiroshima Castle: A restored castle tower located in the city center. It is a few tram stops away from the park, or you can walk there.
• Shukkeien Garden: A Japanese garden from the Edo period. Enjoy a quiet stroll through the garden.
• Hondori, Kamiyacho, Hatchobori (downtown): There is plenty of shopping and restaurants. You can enjoy Hiroshima cuisine such as okonomiyaki.
• Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine): A World Heritage Site. Take the Hiroshima Station or Hiroden train to Miyajimaguchi Station, then take a ferry for about 10 minutes. Popular for day trips.
• Museums and art galleries around Peace Memorial Park: Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum is also within walking distance (although it is a little far).

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Manners at a memorial site: The park is a place of remembrance and peace education. Please be quiet and refrain from making loud noises, running around, or sitting down to eat or drink. Damaging or writing graffiti on exhibits or memorial monuments is strictly prohibited.
• Considerations for photography: Photography is permitted in most outdoor areas, but there may be restrictions on photography of personal belongings of atomic bomb victims or exhibits that could identify individuals. Please follow the photography rules inside the museum.
• congestionThe area will be particularly crowded on August 6th, the anniversary of the atomic bombing, and traffic restrictions and ceremonies will be held in the surrounding area. Summer (tourist season) and consecutive holidays are also likely to be crowded, so please allow plenty of time for travel.
• Weather and Season: Summer is very hot and humid, so you need to take measures to prevent heatstroke (water, hats, parasols, etc.). In winter, the wind can be cold, so dress warmly. Since you'll be outdoors a lot, it's a good idea to bring rain gear too.
• Barrier-freeThe park is relatively flat and wheelchair accessible, but during special exhibitions and events at the museum, it can get crowded and take a long time to move around. Please contact the facility in advance if you need special assistance.
• Advance confirmation: The museum's opening hours, closing days, special exhibitions, and temporary closures may change depending on the season. We recommend checking the official website for the latest information before visiting.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is an important place to learn about the reality of the atomic bombing and to think about peace. When you visit, please be respectful and take time to pray quietly.