Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome

4.7 (34385)Tourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 27, 2026

The Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome, also known as the Genbaku Dome, is one of the most famous landmarks in Hiroshima, Japan. Before the bombing, it was called the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall and was used for exhibitions, trade fairs, and cultural events. The building had a unique European-style design with a brick structure and a distinctive copper dome, making it stand out in the city’s skyline.

On August 6, 1945, the world’s first atomic bomb used in war exploded almost directly above the building, just 600 meters away. The enormous blast destroyed nearly every structure in the surrounding area, killing tens of thousands of people instantly. While the explosion tore through the Promotion Hall, shattering its windows, burning its interior, and collapsing much of its walls, its central frame and steel dome miraculously remained standing. This was partly because the blast came from almost directly overhead, pushing the force downward rather than from the side.

After the war, the damaged building was left in place. Many people debated whether it should be torn down or preserved, but survivors and citizens pushed for it to remain as a silent witness to the horror of nuclear weapons. Over time, it became a powerful symbol of both the destruction caused by war and the hope for lasting peace.

Today, the Atomic Bomb Dome stands exactly as it did after the bombing, carefully maintained so that future generations can see it. It is part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, visited by millions of people from around the world each year. In 1996, UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site, recognizing it as a universal reminder of the need to eliminate nuclear weapons and prevent such tragedies from happening again.

Phone

+81 82-504-2898

Website

www.city.hiroshima.lg.jp

Overview

Address

1-chōme-1-10 Ōtemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan

Traveler reviews

Visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) is an incredibly powerful and sobering experience that stays with you long after you leave. Seeing the skeletal ruins of what was once a bustling industrial exhibition hall, frozen in the exact moment the bomb detonated directly above it, is deeply moving. The contrast between the scarred, preserved structure and the beautifully serene Peace Memorial Park that surrounds it is striking. It stands as a stark, visceral reminder of the horrors of nuclear war, but also as a beautiful monument to resilience and the global pursuit of peace. The site is exceptionally well-maintained, with informative plaques in multiple languages that provide historical context without sensationalism. Walking across the Motoyasu River to view it from different angles gives you space to reflect. It is not an "easy" or lighthearted tourist stop, but it is an absolute must-visit for anyone traveling to Japan. It serves as a vital lesson in history and a powerful call for a peaceful future. Highly recommended.

Jeff Frankling

Jun 25, 2026

The Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Park are incredibly moving. It's a wonderful reminder to all the effects of an atomic bomb and war. When in Japan, you should try to get down to Hiroshima to visit the Atomic Bomb Dome and surrounding park area. You just can't imagine what it would have been like for the people living here when the bomb was dropped. The city certainly has grown into a beautiful place to visit keeping the history alive through this site.

Caz

Jul 11, 2026

A Powerful and Unforgettable Historical Landmark During our recent family trip to Japan, visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima was one of the most emotional and meaningful experiences of our journey. As a visitor from Sri Lanka, standing before this historic structure gave me a profound appreciation of both the tragedy of war and the importance of peace. The preserved ruins serve as a powerful reminder of the events of August 6, 1945. Seeing the building in person is far more impactful than viewing photographs or reading about it in history books. The structure stands silently yet powerfully, telling a story that every visitor can feel. The surrounding Peace Memorial Park is beautifully maintained, peaceful, and filled with monuments dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. Walking through the park with my family allowed us to reflect on the immense human suffering caused by war and the importance of promoting peace for future generations. The site is easily accessible, well organized, and provides excellent information in multiple languages. The atmosphere is respectful and educational, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. I especially appreciated how the Japanese people have preserved this site not only as a memorial but also as a global symbol of hope, resilience, and peace. The nearby river, green spaces, and memorials create a calm environment that encourages reflection. We spent several hours exploring the area and learning about Hiroshima’s remarkable recovery and transformation into a thriving modern city. I highly recommend visiting the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Park to anyone traveling to Japan. It is not just a tourist attraction but a place of education, remembrance, and inspiration. This visit left a lasting impression on our entire family and reminded us of the value of peace, humanity, and international understanding. A truly moving and essential destination that every visitor to Japan should experience at least once.

Dr.Sampath Dematapaksha

Jun 10, 2026

The symbol that defies time and memory You can't visit Hiroshima without stopping in front of the Genbaku Dome, the iconic building partially destroyed but still standing, right at the hypocentre of the atomic blast. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is the most powerful and recognisable symbol of the city. Seeing it in person is a completely different experience from photos: the skeletal structure, the twisted iron domes, the empty windows staring at the sky all silently tell the horror of that morning on August 6, 1945. Yet, despite everything, the building remained standing – almost as an act of resistance against oblivion. The contrast between the ruins and the modern surrounding skyline makes it even more surreal and moving. It's a stop that completes the journey begun at the museum and continued with the Flame of Peace. No lengthy explanations are needed – just looking at it is enough to understand. A place that invites deep reflection and, I hope, reminds everyone just how fragile peace truly is.

Edoardo T.

Jul 12, 2026

This building is what is left standing after the 1945 bombing of Hiroshima, the airburst happened 150 meters from this structure. Everything in the 2.2km blast radius was completely leveled, only this remained. Over the years it has undergone several restorations, and even named a UNESCO site in the 1990s. It is a symbol of hope for humanity to better itself, and not repeat the past. Must see if local.