Discover Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A Journey Through History and Peace - Japan Travel Sights

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, dedicated to commemorating the victims of the atomic bombing and promoting a message of peace.

Located in the heart of Hiroshima, this park is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Japan.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the key attractions within the park, how to access it, and essential visitor information.

Let’s explore the profound history and significance of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

What is Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park?

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was established four years after the atomic bombing, under the Hiroshima Peace Memorial City Construction Law.

The park serves as a global symbol advocating for peace and ensuring that such tragedies never happen again. The park is open to the public free of charge.

Within the park, you’ll find the Peace Memorial Museum, numerous monuments, and memorials that reflect on the horrors of war and the importance of peace. The iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, visible across the Motoyasu River, is one of the most recognized sites in the world. On August 6th, the anniversary of the bombing, a peace memorial ceremony is held here, drawing attention from across Japan.

The Peace Memorial Museum

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, located within the park, was established over 50 years ago to convey the tragic reality of the atomic bombing that took place on August 6, 1945.

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM –
• Closing Hours:
• March to July: 6:00 PM
• August: 7:00 PM
• September to November: 6:00 PM
• December to February: 5:00 PM
• Closed: December 30-31
• Admission:
• Adults: 200 yen
• High School Students: 100 yen
• Children (Junior High School and younger): Free

The museum displays various artifacts, including personal belongings of the bombing victims and life-like dioramas depicting the devastation caused by the bomb. Although the exhibits may be intense, they serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace.

The Atomic Bomb Dome

The Atomic Bomb Dome, located within the park, is perhaps the most famous landmark in Hiroshima. This structure, which was known as the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall before the bombing, was one of the few buildings that survived the blast, although it was severely damaged.

Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserved in its ruined state as a symbol of the tragic event and a call for peace. The stark, skeletal remains of the dome remind visitors of the destructive power of nuclear weapons and the resilience of humanity.

Monuments and Memorials in the Park

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park spans over 120,000 square meters and is home to various monuments and memorials.

These include the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims, the Children’s Peace Monument, and the Peace Bell, among others. Each monument carries a powerful message, urging visitors to remember the past and work towards a peaceful future.

The Rest House

After exploring the park, make sure to visit the Rest House, which doubles as a tourist information center and a place to rest.

This building, located near the hypocenter of the bombing, miraculously survived the explosion and is still in use today.

It frequently appears in historical footage of the aftermath and was also featured in the film “In This Corner of the World.”

How to Access Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is conveniently accessible from Hiroshima Station by both bus and tram.

• By Bus:
  Take bus number 24 towards Yoshijima Sales Office or Yoshijima Hospital, and get off at the “Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park” stop. The sightseeing loop bus, “Meipuru-pu,” also stops here. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
• By Tram:
  Take tram line 1 (bound for Hiroshima Port) from Hiroshima Station and get off at “Fukuro-machi.” From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the park. Tram lines 3 and 7 also pass through “Fukuro-machi.”

Parking Information

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Hiroshima, so parking is generally available except on the day of the memorial ceremony.

There is a municipal parking lot in front of the park, and additional parking options are available across the Ota River and Motoyasu River in Kawaramachi and Fukuro-machi.

Conclusion

A visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a profound and moving experience, offering a deep reflection on the past and a reminder of the importance of peace. Plan to spend about three hours exploring the park, taking your time to fully absorb the exhibits and memorials.

Make use of the Rest House and other facilities to enhance your visit and gain a greater understanding of Hiroshima’s history and its message of peace.