Nagasaki Peace Park (Heiwa Koen)

Visiting Peace Park in Nagasaki was a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. We happened to visit on August 6, just days before the anniversary of the atomic bombing, and could feel the quiet sense of reflection as the park was being carefully prepared for the upcoming memorial. The atmosphere was both solemn and powerful — a space that speaks volumes without needing many words. Standing before the iconic Peace Statue and walking through the serene grounds made us pause and reflect on the importance of peace, resilience, and remembrance. If you visit Nagasaki, this is a place that truly stays with you.

Visiting Nagasaki Peace Park was one of the most moving and meaningful parts of our trip to Japan. The park is dedicated to the memory of the victims of the atomic bombing on August 9, 1945, but it’s also a place filled with messages of hope, peace, and resilience. The park is beautifully laid out—green, serene, and spacious. At its center is the towering Peace Statue, with one hand pointing to the sky as a warning of the threat of nuclear weapons, and the other hand extended in a gesture of peace. Standing in front of it, you can’t help but feel the weight of history, yet the message is one of healing and forward-looking unity. As we walked through the park, we saw monuments and sculptures donated by countries from all over the world, each with their own interpretation of peace. It was moving to see how many nations have contributed to this space, each offering their support and solidarity with Nagasaki’s message. A short walk from the main plaza leads to the Nagasaki Peace Bell, which visitors are invited to ring. The sound it produces is gentle but haunting, and it felt like a personal moment of reflection. Nearby, the Fountain of Peace was also very touching—built to honor the memory of children and victims who died crying out for water after the bombing. What struck me most was the calmness of the park. Despite its tragic past, the space feels peaceful, dignified, and alive with meaning. It’s a place not just for remembrance, but for reflection and hope. If you’re in Nagasaki, a visit to Peace Park is not only recommended—it’s essential. It’s more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.

Lots of school children and tourists visiting the park tourists on the day we went. This clean, well-maintained memorial of one of the most horrible events in modern history is remarkable. Along with ruins of structures, a huge statue, and a fountain are numerous gifted sculptures from countries including Argentina, Turkey, United States, and New Zealand. Art from Japan includes sculptures and thousands of origami cranes.

A very peaceful and well-maintained park dedicated to peace and the victims of the atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki. The museum and the park advocate for an atomic bomb to never be used again. Highly recommended, especially on a sunny day.

Must visit. What else can be said? If you're in Nagasaki, this place is likely on your to-do list. Accessible via tram, there are escalators and elevators leading up to the deck. Please be sure to check out the air raid shelters on the right side of the escalator entrances, as they are often missed.