The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a large public park in the heart of Hiroshima dedicated to the remembrance of the victims of the atomic bomb on August 6, 1945. The park is located in the hypocenter area of the bomb, which was almost completely leveled in the blast. Today, the elegantly designed park is a tranquil space dotted with memorial monuments, quiet gardens and symbols of peace.
While the park is accessible via bridges spanning the canals that border it on three sides, it is best approached from the south. From here, stroll through the gardens toward the elevated Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The park and museum were designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange and opened in 1954 to inspire contemplation and peace in the aftermath of the blast.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to gain insight into the devastating impact the bomb had on people’s lives and the city. The museum displays documentation of the blast, as well as its aftereffects. Discover the museum’s appeal for international peace and mission to abolish nuclear armaments.
As you leave the museum, you’ll see the Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims on the edge of a still pool of water. The cenotaph holds a growing registry of names. Stand directly in front of the cenotaph to see the Peace Flame and the A-Bomb Dome framed by the concrete arch. Within the park, you’ll also find the Children’s Peace Monument, the Gates of Peace, the Cenotaph for Korean Victims and the Memorial Tower to the Mobilized Students, among others.
Cross a bridge to reach the A-Bomb Dome, the only building left standing within the bomb’s hypocenter. The ruins of this stately structure offer a symbol of Hiroshima’s strength and endurance, and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is located in downtown Hiroshima. The nearest tram stations are Genbaku Domu Mae and Haiwa Kinen Koen. The park is open daily for free, but the museum charges a small fee for admission. Visit this park for a quiet day of reflection, learning and remembrance.
