TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum (Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture) is a facility dedicated to conveying the damage and history of the atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, the records of the victims, the horror of nuclear weapons, and the importance of peace. Through photographs and personal effects from the aftermath of the bombing, video testimonies from the victims, a model of the hypocenter, and reconstructed exhibits, visitors can learn about the situation at the time and the true nature of the damage. It has a strong educational and commemorative aspect, and its greatest feature is that it conveys a message of peace to the many visitors from Japan and abroad.
Highlights
- Personal belongings exhibit: You can get a real sense of the damage caused by the bombing through personal belongings such as clothing, everyday items, and melted metal fragments from the time of the bombing.
- Photographs and video materials: Footage of the city immediately after the bombing and testimonies from atomic bomb survivors are on display, making a strong visual impact.
- Models and Reconstruction Exhibits: The scope and mechanism of the damage are clearly explained using models of the area around the hypocenter and reconstructions showing the effects of the atomic bomb.
- Peace Education Corner: Contains explanations, teaching materials, worksheets, etc. for children, making it suitable for school visits.
- Special exhibitions and planned exhibitions: Themed exhibitions are held regularly, covering topics such as the recovery of the lives of citizens after the bombing and the history of support for atomic bomb survivors.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Tram: Take the Nagasaki Electric Tram from Nagasaki Station to the Heiwa Koen stop (or a nearby stop), then walk for a few minutes. The tram is convenient for sightseeing and runs frequently.
- Bus: Take a local bus from anywhere in the city to Peace Park, then walk from the nearest bus stop.
- Car/Taxi: Approximately 10-20 minutes by car from Nagasaki Station (depending on traffic conditions). Parking is available on-site or in the surrounding area, but may be full during peak hours.
- From the airport: Take a limousine bus or express bus from Nagasaki Airport into the city, then transfer to a tram or bus to access the area.
- *We recommend checking the latest timetables, bus stop names, and parking information on the official website or transportation company's website in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard tour: 1 to 1.5 hours (if viewing the entire permanent exhibition)
- For a thorough study: 1.5 to 2 hours or more (if you want to watch the videos and testimonies and also visit the surrounding Peace Park and ground zero, it will take about half a day)
- School groups and guided tours may require longer tour times depending on schedule.
Nearby spots
- Nagasaki Peace Park: Adjacent to the museum, there is a peace statue and a memorial monument, and you can think about peace while strolling around.
- Ground Zero (Monument): There is a monument marking the epicenter of the atomic bomb, allowing you to experience the extent of the damage.
- Urakami Cathedral (Urakami Church): You can visit the remains of the church, which shows the damage caused by the bombing, as well as the reconstructed church.
- Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Victims Memorial and Peace Fountain: A popular spot visited as a place of remembrance.
- (Somewhat far away) Glover Garden, Dejima, Chinatown (Shinchi Chinatown), night view of Mount Inasa: This is a standard sightseeing course in Nagasaki after visiting the Atomic Bomb Museum.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- It gets crowded on Memorial Day (August 9th every year), during the summer tourist season, and during school field trip season. If you want to take a leisurely tour, weekday mornings are relatively quiet.
- The museum is a place of remembrance and learning. Please refrain from loud conversations or noisy behavior and view the exhibits quietly.
- There may be areas within the museum where photography is restricted. Please follow the notices and instructions of staff regarding whether photography is permitted.
- The exhibits contain strong language in order to convey the horrors of the atomic bombing. We recommend that you explain the contents of the exhibits to small children and those with mental health issues before viewing.
- Accessibility: Facilities for wheelchair users and nursing rooms may be available, but please check in advance for details.
- Climate: Nagasaki is hot and humid in the summer and relatively warm in the winter, although there are some windy days. If you plan to visit the Peace Park and the hypocenter outside, please dress appropriately.
*Please be sure to check the official website or on-site information for the latest opening hours, closing days, admission fees, special exhibition information, group tours, etc.
