The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a memorial park in the center of Hiroshima, Japan, dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in the world to suffer a nuclear attack, and to the memories of the bomb's direct and indirect victims. It features the Peace Memorial Museum, the A-Bomb Dome, and other monuments.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is located in downtown Hiroshima, in the Naka Ward. The park is situated near the epicenter of the atomic bomb explosion that occurred on August 6, 1945.
Key attractions include the A-Bomb Dome (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Peace Memorial Museum, the Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims, the Children's Peace Monument, and the Flame of Peace. Together these sites commemorate the victims and promote a message of peace and the elimination of nuclear weapons.
The park is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom or in autumn for cooler weather and beautiful foliage. August 6th, the anniversary of the bombing, hosts special ceremonies and events in remembrance.
There is no entrance fee to enter Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park itself. However, there may be a small fee to enter certain facilities within the park, such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
Yes, guided tours are available, including tours led by volunteers who may have personal connections to the events of 1945. These tours provide in-depth insights into the history and significance of the park and its monuments. It's advisable to book in advance.
Facilities available for tourists include restrooms, benches, and drinking fountains. The Peace Memorial Museum offers multi-language audio guides, a gift shop, and a resource center with books and materials related to peace.
The park is accessible by public transportation. The closest tram stops are Genbaku-Domu Mae (Atomic Bomb Dome) and Heiwa-Kinen-Koen (Peace Memorial Park). It's also a short walk from Hiroshima Station—approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles).
Visitors should allocate at least half a day to fully experience the park and its monuments. Those who wish to explore the Peace Memorial Museum and read detailed exhibits should plan for a longer visit.
As a site of historical significance and remembrance, visitors are expected to show respect at all times. This includes speaking softly, refraining from inappropriate behavior, and following any posted guidelines or instructions from park staff.