Visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: History, Monuments & Tips

In the heart of Hiroshima City lies a place of deep reflection and quiet strength—the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (広島平和記念公園). Located near the epicenter of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, this park stands today as a solemn tribute to the victims, a call for global peace, and a symbol of Japan’s resilience.

Every monument, statue, and tree within the park carries a story—of devastation, recovery, and the unyielding desire for a world without nuclear weapons. A visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is not only a historical experience but also a spiritual one.
 

📍 Where is Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park?

Location: Nakajima-cho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Nearest Station: Hiroshima Station → 15 minutes by tram (get off at Genbaku Dome-mae Station)

The park is located near the Motoyasu River, where the once-vibrant Nakajima district was completely destroyed in 1945.

📖 Historical Background

Before World War II, the Nakajima district was a bustling commercial and residential area. On August 6, 1945, at 8:15 a.m., the United States dropped an atomic bomb over Hiroshima. The bomb detonated nearly 600 meters above ground, killing tens of thousands instantly and destroying everything within a 2 km radius.

The aftermath inspired global movements for peace. In 1954, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was established on the ruins of the former city center, and it continues to serve as a living memorial and educational site.

🗺️ Main Attractions and Monuments

1. Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)

A haunting yet powerful symbol, the ruins of the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall remain standing near ground zero. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the Dome represents the destruction caused by nuclear weapons—and the resolve to prevent their future use.

Tip: Visit during sunset for a striking silhouette against the skyline.

2. Children’s Peace Monument

Inspired by Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who died from leukemia caused by radiation exposure, this monument features a statue of a girl holding a paper crane. Visitors from around the world donate thousands of origami cranes as symbols of peace and hope.

Don’t forget to bring your own paper crane to contribute!

3. Peace Flame

Lit in 1964, the Peace Flame will continue to burn until the world is free of nuclear weapons. It sits at the center of the park, aligned with the Cenotaph and the Atomic Bomb Dome.

4. Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims (Memorial Monument for Hiroshima, City of Peace)

An arched concrete structure that contains a stone chest with the names of all known victims of the atomic bomb. The inscription reads:

“Let all the souls here rest in peace; for we shall not repeat the evil.”

It serves as the emotional and symbolic center of the park.

5. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

This is the most comprehensive and emotionally powerful part of the park. The museum exhibits include:

Eyewitness accounts

Photographs of Hiroshima before and after the bombing

Artifacts such as scorched clothing, watches stopped at 8:15

Stories of survivors (hibakusha)

Detailed history of the lead-up to the bombing

Set aside 1–2 hours to fully experience this sobering museum. Audio guides are available in multiple languages.

6. Peace Bell

A large bell that visitors are encouraged to ring. Its resonance symbolizes hope and echoes across the park. Many believe it has a calming, meditative effect.

7. Memorial Mound

This grassy dome contains the ashes of approximately 70,000 unidentified victims of the bomb. A solemn site that reflects the vast scale of loss.

🕒 Best Time to Visit

🌸 August 6th: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony

Every year on August 6, Hiroshima hosts a Peace Memorial Ceremony with:

Prayers and speeches

Release of doves

A moment of silence at 8:15 a.m.

Floating paper lanterns down the river at night

Thousands attend to remember the victims and renew their commitment to peace.

Advance booking for accommodations is essential if you plan to attend.

📸 Photography Tips

Atomic Bomb Dome at dusk or during blue hour

Reflection of monuments in the Motoyasu River

Paper cranes at the Children’s Peace Monument

Peace Flame aligned with the Dome and Cenotaph

Tip: Be respectful—avoid loud behavior, and don’t take photos of people visibly grieving or praying.

🧭 Nearby Attractions

🏰 Hiroshima Castle

A reconstructed samurai-era castle surrounded by a tranquil moat. Beautiful during cherry blossom season.

🛥️ Hiroshima Orizuru Tower

Offers panoramic views of the Peace Park and Genbaku Dome. You can also fold your own orizuru (paper crane) and drop it into the symbolic tower wall.

⛩️ Shukkeien Garden

A beautifully landscaped traditional garden with ponds, tea houses, and seasonal flowers.

🏛️ Hiroshima Museum of Art

Features works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Japanese artists. A great cultural addition to your itinerary.

🍱 Where to Eat Near the Park

Okonomimura – Multi-floor food haven specializing in Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki

Ekohiiki – Cozy izakaya known for oysters and seafood

Nagata-ya – One of the most popular okonomiyaki spots near the park

Cafe Ponte – Western-style riverside café, good for coffee and light meals

🛍️ Souvenirs and Gifts

Origami crane kits

Peace-themed postcards

Books and educational materials

Handmade goods from local artisans near the museum shop

🏨 Where to Stay Near Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima – Elegant, central, with views of the park

Mitsui Garden Hotel Hiroshima – Stylish and close to public transport

Hiroshima Washington Hotel – Affordable and comfortable

Guesthouses or Hostels – Many cater to international travelers with multilingual support

🙏 Travel Tips and Etiquette

Speak quietly; this is a site of remembrance.

Avoid phone calls and loud laughter.

Respect signage regarding photography.

Give space to those who may be mourning or praying.

Learn a few Japanese phrases like "heiwa" (peace) or "arigatou" (thank you) for respectful interaction.

💡 Did You Know?

The first tree to bloom after the bombing was a hibaku jumoku (survivor tree)—some of which still grow in the park today.

Paper cranes from around the world are collected and preserved in the Peace Museum.

Hiroshima was declared a City of Peace by the Japanese government in 1949.

📝 Final Thoughts

Visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is not just a tourist experience—it’s a human one. It brings into sharp focus the cost of war, the resilience of people, and the urgent need for peace in our world.

The park invites you to reflect, learn, and hope. From the quiet ringing of the Peace Bell to the solemn ruins of the Dome, every corner tells a story that’s universally relevant.

Whether you spend an hour or a day, your time in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park will likely stay with you for a lifetime.