Nagasaki Peace Park (Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Nagasaki Peace Park (Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture) is a park for remembrance and peace established in the Urakami area, which was devastated by the Nagasaki atomic bombing on August 9, 1945. It was developed as a place for postwar reconstruction and for offering flowers and memorials, and in 1955 (Showa 30s) the park was renovated with the Peace Statue (created by Kitamura Seibo) at its center. The park is home to a memorial stone, a peace bell, sculptures and monuments wishing for peace donated from around the world, the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, and a monument marking the hypocenter of the atomic bomb, and sends out a strong message of congratulations to the victims and for the abolition of nuclear weapons and permanent peace.

Highlights

• Peace Memorial Statue (Statue of Peace): This approximately 10m tall statue was designed by Seibo Kitamura. Its right hand points to the sky, symbolizing the threat of the atomic bomb, while its left hand symbolizes peace on earth. It is the symbol of Nagasaki Peace Park.
• Peace Bell and Peace FountainA bell set up as a place of prayer and reflection, a fountain to commemorate the victims and survivors of the atomic bombing, and a place where visitors can actually ring the bell (with due consideration for etiquette).
• Monument to the hypocenter of the atomic bomb (Hydrogen Center): A monument marking the hypocenter. Located within walking distance of the park, it allows you to see the epicenter of the bombing.
• Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum: There are plenty of exhibits that convey the reality of the atomic bombing. You can learn about the history from photographs, personal effects, and records of the bombing (separate viewing recommended).
• Peace statues and memorials from around the world: International peace messages are collected here, and you can see artistic expressions from various countries.
• Peace Memorial Ceremony (August 9th every year)A memorial ceremony is held on the anniversary of the atomic bombing, with many attendees laying flowers and offering a moment of silence (open to the public).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Streetcar (Nagasaki Electric Tramway)From JR Nagasaki Station, take the tram (city tram) to the "Atomic Bomb Museum" or "Peace Park" stop, then walk for a short distance. It's about a 10-15 minute ride from JR Nagasaki Station.
• JR line and walking: It takes about 30-40 minutes on foot (about 2-3km) from JR Nagasaki Station.
• From Nagasaki Airport: Take the airport limousine bus to Nagasaki Station (approximately 40-50 minutes), then take the tram from Nagasaki Station.
• Cars and parking: Paid parking is available in the surrounding area. It is recommended to use public transportation as it can get crowded during peak tourist seasons and ceremonies.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Park only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (just looking around the statues and monuments)
• Park + Atomic Bomb Museum: 1.5 to 3 hours (approximately 2 hours if you want to take your time looking around the museum)
• Sightseeing including nearby Urakami Cathedral, Dejima, Glover Garden, etc.: Half a day to a full day

Nearby spots

• Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum: Located next to the park, you can learn about the records of the atomic bombing in a systematic way.
• Monument to the epicenter of the atomic bomb: A monument located a few minutes' walk from the park.
• Urakami Cathedral (Urakami Church): A Catholic church that was severely damaged in the atomic bombing. You can visit the reconstructed building and surrounding historical sites.
• Dejima, Glover Garden, and Chinatown (Shinchi Chinatown): The main tourist spot around Nagasaki Port. Accessible by bus or tram from the park.
• Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture:A facility where you can learn about Nagasaki's history and culture.

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

• Manners at a memorial site: The park is a place of remembrance and memorial service. Please refrain from making loud noises, running around, or drinking alcohol in designated areas, and be considerate of visitors who are laying flowers or praying silently. Photography is permitted, but please be mindful not to interfere with memorial services.
• congestion: The Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 9th every year is crowded with many attendees and members of the press. The number of tourists also increases during Golden Week and summer vacation. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting on a weekday morning.
• Weather and SeasonIn summer, the sun will be strong, and it will be hot and humid, so be sure to bring a hat and a drink. In winter, the sea breeze can be chilly, so be sure to take measures to protect yourself from the cold. Since you will be outdoors, it is a good idea to bring rain gear.
• Barrier-free: The main pathways are paved and wheelchair accessible, but there are some slopes and steps, so it is best to check in advance.
• Garbage and smoking：The park is well-kept. Please take your trash home or dispose of it in the designated area. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas.

Nagasaki Peace Park is an important place to face the history of the atomic bombing and think about peace. When you visit, please remember the historical background and the feelings of remembrance, and please view the park quietly.