As the only two places in the world that have experienced the devastating impact of atomic bombs, Hiroshima and Nagasaki stand as poignant reminders of the immense destructive power of nuclear weapons.
These cities, once razed to the ground, are now home to memorials and peace parks that bear witness to the catastrophic events of August 1945. Visiting these memorials provides a sobering glimpse into one of the most tragic chapters in human history while also reinforcing the universal longing for peace and disarmament.
In Hiroshima and Nagasaki, there is a myriad of sites, monuments, and museums dedicated to preserving the memory of those who perished in the bombings and educating visitors about the horrors of nuclear warfare. From the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima to the less crowded but equally moving Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, these sites offer a profound exploration of the past.
This article will guide you through 20 must-visit memorials in Hiroshima and Nagasaki that serve as powerful symbols of resilience, hope, and the enduring pursuit of peace.
On a summer day in 1945, the world witnessed destruction like never before. The first atomic bomb, known as "Little Boy," was dropped on Hiroshima, Japan by the American military. Buildings crumbled, fires blazed, and many lives were lost in an instant. The city was left in ruins. Not long after, on August 9, a second bomb, "Fat Man," struck Nagasaki. This bomb also caused massive damage and took many lives.
These attacks were meant to end World War II by forcing Japan to surrender. Hiroshima was targeted for its military sites, while Nagasaki was bombed after the primary target was covered by clouds. These bombings brought Japan to surrender on August 15, 1945, which marked the end of the war. Today, the bombings are remembered for the immense power and tragedy they brought, and they are a strong reminder of why the world seeks peace and the elimination of nuclear weapons.
Nestled in the heart of Hiroshima, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park stands as a solemn reminder of the city's tragic past and a beacon of hope for a future free from nuclear warfare. Once the thriving political and commercial center of the city, this vast green space now serves to memorialize the countless lives lost during the world's first nuclear attack. Covering over 120,000 square meters, the park is hugged by rivers on both sides, creating an atmosphere of tranquility that belies the devastation that once occurred here.
The park's main facility is the Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a comprehensive survey of Hiroshima's history and the advent of nuclear weapons. The museum's exhibits, which include the personal belongings of the victims and photographs from the aftermath of the bombing, tell a harrowing tale of indiscriminate destruction and profound disruption. Despite its somber subject matter, the park has been designed as a serene space, dotted with memorials and tranquil spaces for reflection.
Location: 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, daily
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: Open year-round
The Atomic Bomb Dome, also known as the Genbaku Dome, is a symbol of the tremendous destructive power unleashed on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. It was the only structure left standing near the hypocenter of the atomic bomb explosion. Originally the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, the building's skeletal remains have been preserved exactly as they were after the bombing, serving as a stark reminder of the event's catastrophic impact.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Hiroshima, a city that bears the profound weight of history yet stands resilient and thriving.
Today, the Dome is a UNESCO World Heritage site and forms a central part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Its haunting silhouette is a poignant testament to the cost of war and the importance of peace. Visitors to the Dome are confronted with the stark reality of nuclear warfare, reinforcing the urgent need for disarmament and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Location: 1-10 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours for exterior viewing, daily
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: Open year-round
The Children's Peace Monument is a touching tribute to the young victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. The monument was inspired by Sadako Sasaki, a girl who developed leukemia from radiation exposure and believed that folding 1,000 origami cranes would help her recover. Her story has since become a symbol of the innocent lives lost in the bombings.
Standing tall in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the monument features a statue of a girl holding a golden crane above her head. Surrounding the monument are glass cases filled with colorful paper cranes sent from around the world, embodying a collective prayer for a peaceful future without nuclear weapons. The Children's Peace Monument underscores the human cost of the atomic bombings and serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
Location: Within Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, daily
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: Open year-round
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, situated within the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, is a poignant testament to the destructive power of nuclear weapons and the profound human cost of war.
Its exhibits, ranging from personal belongings left by the victims to graphic photographs of the aftermath, provide a comprehensive and deeply moving account of the atomic bombing. The museum's mission is not merely to recount the horrors of that fateful day but to promote a message of peace and the elimination of all nuclear weapons.
Immerse yourself in Hiroshima's rich tapestry of history, culture, and serene spirituality during this exclusive full-day journey.
The museum itself consists of two buildings. One surveys the history of Hiroshima before the atomic bomb, the process of the bomb's development as part of the Manhattan Project, and the devastating impact of its detonation.
The other building houses exhibits that tell the stories of the victims and survivors. Together, they offer visitors a stark reminder of the devastation caused by nuclear warfare and the urgent need for global disarmament.
Location: 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Mar-Jul, Sep-Nov); 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM (Aug); 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Dec-Feb); closed on December 30, 31, and January 1
Entry Fee: 200 yen (subject to change)
Close Date: December 30 - January 1
The Memorial Cenotaph, another key feature of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, stands as a solemn tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing. The cenotaph holds the names of all those who perished due to the bombing, regardless of nationality. It is an arched structure designed by architect Kenzō Tange, intended to represent a shelter for the souls of the victims.
The epitaph on the cenotaph does not assign blame for the tragedy; instead, it carries a universal message of peace with the words, "Let all the souls here rest in peace, for we shall not repeat the evil." This statement, coupled with its poignant design, makes the Memorial Cenotaph a powerful symbol of the city's commitment to peace and its dedication to remembering the victims of the atomic bombing.
Location: Within Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, daily
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: Open year-round
The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims is a place of quiet reflection and remembrance. Its key feature is the Hall of Remembrance, an evocative space where visitors can pay their respects to the victims of the atomic bombing. The hall presents a panoramic view of the destroyed city recreated using 140,000 tiles - the estimated number of people who died from the bombing by the end of 1945.
The Memorial Hall also houses a library that provides access to various materials related to the atomic bombing, including survivor testimonies. These resources serve to educate visitors about the human impact of nuclear warfare and the enduring effects of radiation exposure.
Location: 1-6 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, daily; closed on December 29, 30, and 31
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: December 29 - December 31
The Rest House in Hiroshima Peace Park, previously known as the Taishoya Kimono Shop, is the only building in the park that survived the atomic bombing. Today, it serves as an information center and a place where visitors can learn more about the history and impact of the atomic bombing.
Explore Hiroshima from above with a helicopter tour over iconic landmarks of the city.
The building's basement, which was directly hit by the atomic bomb, has been preserved as a testament to the destructive power of nuclear weapons. Visitors can see the original walls and columns, still bearing the scars of the blast. The Rest House serves as a stark reminder of the devastation caused by the atomic bombings and underscores the importance of striving for a world free from nuclear weapons.
Location: 1-1 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, daily
Entry Fee: Free (some services and shops inside may have fees)
Close Date: Open year-round
The Hiroshima Castle, also known as the Carp Castle, is a significant historical landmark that survived the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II. Originally built in the 1590s, the castle was destroyed by the atomic bomb but was faithfully reconstructed in 1958. Today, the castle stands as a symbol of Hiroshima's resilience and its ability to rebuild and prosper even after utter destruction.
The castle houses a museum that provides insights into Japanese history before the advent of nuclear weapons. It also offers a panoramic view of the city from its top floor. The Hiroshima Castle is a stark contrast to the Atomic Bomb Dome, reminding visitors of the city's vibrant past before the "Little Boy" uranium bomb turned it into a primary target, resulting in a destructive nuclear explosion that left the city in ruins.
Location: 21-1 Motomachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0011, Japan
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Mar-Nov); 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Dec-Feb); closed on December 29 to 31
Entry Fee: From 370 yen (main keep), free for the grounds (subject to change)
Close Date: December 29 - December 31
The Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, established in 1989, is the first public art museum in Japan devoted to contemporary art. This museum stands as a testament to the city's remarkable recovery and growth after the atomic bombings. The museum holds a diverse collection of works, including pieces that reflect on the bombings and their aftermath.
The museum's architecture itself is a work of art designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings and the cityscape scarred by the atomic bombing. Through its exhibitions, the museum encourages visitors to reflect on modern issues such as war, peace, and the human condition, all themes intrinsically linked to the city's history and the Manhattan Project that forever changed its fate.
Location: 1-1 Hijiyama Koen, Minami Ward, Hiroshima, 732-0815, Japan
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (entry until 4:30 PM); closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday), and December 29 to January 3
Entry Fee: 370 yen (general admission, subject to change), varies for special exhibitions
Close Date: Mondays, December 29 - January 3
The Shukkeien Garden, whose name translates to 'shrunken-scenery garden', is a historic Japanese garden in Hiroshima. Despite being severely damaged by the atomic bomb, it was restored and reopened in 1951. The garden is a microcosm of various landscapes featuring miniature valleys, mountains, and forests. It is a place of serenity and natural beauty amidst a city known for its tragic past.
The Shukkeien Garden, like the Hiroshima Castle, provides a glimpse into the city's culture and aesthetic before the atomic bombings. Its careful restoration symbolizes Hiroshima's commitment to preserving its heritage and rebuilding in the aftermath of the war. Today, the garden serves as a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike, offering a stark contrast to the memories of the mushroom cloud that once loomed over the city.
Location: 2-11 Kaminobori-cho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0014, Japan
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Apr-Sep); 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Oct-Mar); closed on December 29 to 31
Entry Fee: 260 yen (adults), 150 yen (seniors), free for junior high school students and children (subject to change)
Close Date: December 29 - December 31
Visit Shukkeien Garden with this 3-day private bus tour.
Nagasaki Peace Park is a significant location that commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki during World War II. The park, located near the hypocenter of the blast, hosts several memorials, including the Monument for Korean Atomic Victims, dedicated to the many Koreans who were victims of the atomic bombings. The park's serene environment serves as a stark contrast to the prompt and utter destruction caused by "Fat Man", the second atomic bomb dropped on Japan.
The park also features a black monolith marking the exact point of the nuclear explosion. Visiting the park offers a poignant experience, allowing visitors to reflect on the immense destructive power of nuclear weapons and the irreversible consequences of their use. It stands as a testament to the resilience of Nagasaki and its commitment to promoting peace.
Location: Matsuyama-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8118, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, daily
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: Open year-round
The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum provides a comprehensive account of the atomic bombings, from the development of nuclear weapons under the Manhattan Project to the aftermath of the bombings. The museum houses various exhibits, including artifacts from the bombing, photographs, and survivor testimonies, all serving to portray the human cost of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Discover the remarkable history and resilience of Nagasaki on an unforgettable self-guided audio tour.
Although smaller in scale compared to the Hiroshima Memorial Park, the museum offers a profound and moving experience. It presents a detailed chronology of events leading up to the bombing, the bombing itself, and its aftermath, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the event's historical context and its impact on Japanese cities and forces.
Location: 7-8 Hirano-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8117, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Mar-Nov); 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Dec-Feb); closed on December 29 to 31
Entry Fee: 200 yen (adults), other categories may have discounts (subject to change)
Close Date: December 29 to 31
Overlooking the Nagasaki Peace Park, the Nagasaki Peace Statue is a symbol of hope and a memorial for peace. The statue, with one hand pointing to the threat of nuclear weapons and the other stretched out in a gesture of peace, is a stark reminder of the devastation caused by the atomic bombings. The statue's closed eyes offer a prayer for the victims of the atomic bomb.
The Peace Statue, like the other memorials in the park, serves to remind us of the destructive power of nuclear weapons and the urgent need for global disarmification. It stands as a beacon of hope for a world free from the horrors of nuclear warfare, offering a silent prayer for peace.
Location: Within Nagasaki Peace Park, Matsuyama-machi, Nagasaki, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, daily
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: Open year-round
Hypocenter Park, located in Nagasaki, marks the exact ground zero where the atomic bomb was detonated on August 9, 1945. The park is a somber reminder of the "Fat Man" nuclear bomb explosion that decimated the city and caused tens of thousands of casualties. In the park, a black monolith stands as a stark symbol of the bomb's hypocenter, marking the precise spot above which the atomic bomb exploded.
The park also houses remnants of a wall from the former Urakami Cathedral, which was completely destroyed by the atomic blast. A nearby plaque explains that the wall was left standing even after the blinding flash and subsequent blast wave.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Gunkanjima Island – a time-crafted haven where history whispers through worn pathways and nature’s reclamation.
The park serves as a potent symbol of the destructive power of nuclear weapons and is a poignant reminder of the need for peace and disarmament. It stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Japanese people, who rebuilt their city from the ashes of atomic destruction.
Location: 7-8 Hirano-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8117, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, daily
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: Open year-round
Urakami Cathedral, once the largest church in East Asia, stood less than half a kilometer from the hypocenter of the atomic explosion in Nagasaki. The cathedral was completely destroyed when the atomic bomb detonated, and its reinforced concrete buildings were reduced to rubble in the blink of an eye. Today, the ruins of the cathedral serve as a haunting reminder of the atomic bombings and their devastating impact on the Japanese city.
The cathedral was rebuilt in 1959 and is now a symbol of hope and rebirth. The new structure stands close to the original site, with a portion of the ruined cathedral preserved as a memorial.
Visitors to the site can see a damaged statue of the Virgin Mary, its face melted by the heat of the bomb. This poignant sight serves as a stark reminder of the human beings impacted by the atomic attack, their lives forever changed by the events of that fateful day.
Location: 1-79 Motoomachi, Nagasaki, 852-8117, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, daily
Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome)
Close Date: Open year-round, but access may be restricted during services
The Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument commemorates the first Japanese Christians who were crucified in Nagasaki in 1597. While not directly linked to the atomic bombings, the museum provides context for Nagasaki's unique history as a center of Christianity in Japan. This history made the bombing of the city, including the destruction of Urakami Cathedral, particularly significant.
The museum exhibits artifacts and documents related to the history of Christianity in Japan. It serves as a testament to the resilience and faith of the Japanese people, who maintained their beliefs despite persecution.
The monument, a large cross with bronze statues of the martyrs, stands on a hill overlooking the city. From this vantage point, visitors can see the rebuilt city, including the new Urakami Cathedral, and reflect on the city's long history, from the time of the martyrs to the atomic bombings and beyond.
Location: 7-8 Nishizaka-machi, Nagasaki, 850-0051, Japan
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, daily
Entry Fee: 500 yen (adults), discounts for children and groups (subject to change)
Close Date: Open year-round
The Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture is a significant institution that provides insights into the city's complex past. It exhibits artifacts and records related to Japan's trade and cultural exchanges with foreign countries, particularly during the Pacific War when Nagasaki was one of the few Japanese ports open to foreign trade. The museum also presents a comprehensive account of the atomic bombings, showcasing the destruction caused when atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
In the aftermath of the bombings, the Japanese government and military had to grapple with the immense devastation and loss of life. The museum offers a poignant reminder of this challenging period in Japanese history.
Visitors can learn about the impact of the bombings on the city's infrastructure and people and how the Japanese forces responded to the unprecedented crisis. The museum underscores the importance of peace and the need for nuclear disarmament, given the destructive potential of atomic weapons.
Location: 1-1-1 Tateyama, Nagasaki, 850-0007, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM (Apr-Sep), 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Oct-Mar); closed on Mondays and December 29 to January 3
Entry Fee: 610 yen (adults), discounts for seniors and children (subject to change)
Close Date: Mondays, December 29 to January 3
The Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims is a solemn commemoration of the lives lost in the Nagasaki bombing. The memorial hall, part of the Japanese government's efforts to remember the victims and educate future generations about the horrors of nuclear warfare, offers a quiet space for reflection and remembrance.
The hall houses a registry of the bomb victims, personal accounts from survivors, and an exhibit displaying the aftermath of the bombing. It serves as a stark reminder of the day when the "Fat Man" atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, resulting in massive casualties and the complete destruction of the city. The hall reminds visitors of the importance of peace and the ongoing global efforts to prevent the use of nuclear weapons.
Location: 7-8 Hirano-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8117, Japan
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Mar-Nov), 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Dec-Feb); closed on December 29 to 31
Entry Fee: Free
Close Date: December 29 to 31
The Sanno Shrine in Nagasaki is a Shinto shrine that miraculously survived the atomic bombing, despite being located just 800 meters from the hypocenter. The shrine's torii gate was the only structure left standing amidst the surrounding devastation, a symbol of resilience in the face of overwhelming destruction.
The shrine is particularly significant because it was used as an air raid shelter during the war, providing refuge to Japanese forces and civilians alike. Today, visitors to the shrine can see the original Torii gate and other structures that bear the scars of the bombing. The Sanno Shrine serves as a poignant reminder of the bombing and its aftermath, a testament to the resilience of the Japanese people in the face of adversity.
Location: 18-15 Kaminagasaki-machi, Nagasaki, 852-8106, Japan
Opening Hours: Always accessible, but facility hours may vary
Entry Fee: Free, but some parts may require a fee during special events
Close Date: Open year-round
The Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium offers a completely different perspective on the city, focusing on its rich natural heritage rather than its war-torn past. The aquarium is home to various species of penguins and provides valuable insights into their behavior and habitats. Visitors can observe these fascinating creatures in environments designed to mimic their natural habitats.
While not directly related to the atomic bombings or the Pacific War, the aquarium represents the city's recovery and transformation since those dark days. The Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium is a testament to the city's commitment to conservation and education, offering visitors a chance to learn about and appreciate the natural world's wonders.
Location: 3-16 Shukumachi, Nagasaki, 851-0121, Japan
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, daily; last entry 30 minutes before closing
Entry Fee: 610 yen (adults), 300 yen (high school students), 200 yen (4 years old to junior high school students); prices subject to change
Close Date: December 29 to January 1
The ideal times to visit the memorials in Hiroshima and Nagasaki are in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is especially beautiful with cherry blossoms or fall foliage.
These seasons also coincide with important memorial events on August 6th and August 9th, the anniversaries of the bombings, which are marked by various ceremonies and cultural events. Visitors during these times can engage deeply with the sites' historical significance and participate in communal remembrance.
For those preferring a quieter visit, winter offers fewer crowds, although it's colder. While respectful conduct is essential throughout the year, each season offers a unique atmosphere for visitors to reflect on the tragedies and embrace the peace advocacy that these memorials stand for.
Explore Hiroshima's scenic beauty with a morning hike and a traditional open-air tea ceremony.
Regardless of when one visits, the experience at places like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum is profound and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on all who come.
Visiting the memorials in Hiroshima and Nagasaki is a somber yet enlightening experience. Here are some tips to ensure your visit is both respectful and meaningful:
Understand the History: Before visiting, familiarize yourself with the historical events surrounding the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. Understanding the context of the first atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima by the Enola Gay, the secondary target of Nagasaki, and the resulting Japanese surrender will enrich your visit.
Respect the Memorials: Show reverence at all times. These sites are not only tourist destinations but also places of remembrance for the victims of the atomic bombs dropped.
Visit the Museums: The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum provide comprehensive information about the bombings, including the nuclear fission process behind the bombs, the air raid warnings issued, and the aftermath of the bombings.
Attend Commemorative Events: If your visit coincides with the anniversaries of the bombings in August, consider attending the commemorative events. These ceremonies offer deeper insights into the impact of the bombings on the Japanese home islands and the rest of the world.
Explore Other Historical Sites: Beyond the bombing memorials, explore other historical sites that shed light on the Japanese military and civilian life during the war. This could include the Japanese Second Army headquarters in Hiroshima or sites related to the Japanese army in Nagasaki.
Consider Hiring a Guide: A knowledgeable guide can provide additional insights and context that you may not get from signage or audio guides. They can illuminate details such as the aiming point for the bombs, the blast radius, and the explosive power of the bombs.
Reflect on the Impact: Take time to reflect on the devastation caused by the atomic bombs and the importance of peace. The memorials are stark reminders of the destructive power of nuclear weapons and the human cost of war.
The Hiroshima and Nagasaki memorials provide a profound insight into one of the most pivotal moments in human history. These sites bear witness to the tremendous destructive power of nuclear weapons and the resilience of those who survived. Visiting these memorials is not only an educational experience but also a deeply moving one, offering a clearer understanding of the importance of peace and the value of every human life.
If the stories of Hiroshima and Nagasaki move you and wish to pay your respects, we invite you to book your trip through our website, TripToJapan. Our platform provides comprehensive travel packages that include visits to these significant memorials, ensuring that your journey is as seamless as it is meaningful.
So, why wait? Visit TripToJapan today and start planning your trip to these historical landmarks. Remember the past, and envision a peaceful future.
Explore historical landmarks, learn about the city's transformation, and experience hidden local gems.
