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The Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Atomic Bomb Dome or Genbaku Dome, is one of the most important symbols of peace in the world. Located in Hiroshima, Japan, this haunting yet powerful site is part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. It stands as a lasting reminder of the devastation caused by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, during World War II.
The remains of the building were left untouched after the bombing to remind future generations of the horrors of nuclear weapons and the importance of working toward peace. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 and is one of the most visited historical sites in Japan.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is located in central Hiroshima and is very easy to access. If you're arriving by train, you can take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station. From there, it's about a 15-minute ride on the Hiroshima Electric Railway (streetcar). Take tram line #2 or #6 and get off at the "Genbaku Dome-mae" stop, which is directly in front of the memorial.
You can also walk from Hiroshima Station in about 30 minutes, or take a taxi for convenience. The Peace Memorial Park, which includes the dome, museum, and various monuments, is walkable and well-signposted.
Hiroshima experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and comfortable weather. Cherry blossoms bloom in early April, making the park especially beautiful during this time.
Summers (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Even in cooler months, the memorial and park remain open, and winter visits offer a quieter, more reflective atmosphere.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (the Atomic Bomb Dome itself) is an outdoor structure and is open to the public year-round, 24 hours a day. There is no entry fee to view the dome or walk around the Peace Memorial Park.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which is located nearby within the park, is open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (March to July and September to November), and until 7:00 PM in August. It closes at 5:00 PM during December to February. The museum is closed on December 30 and 31. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is famous for being one of the few buildings left standing near the epicenter of the atomic bomb blast. The building, which was originally the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, was destroyed by the bomb, but its central dome and outer walls remained partially intact.
Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience, remembrance, and the global movement for peace and nuclear disarmament. Visitors from all over the world come to pay their respects and reflect on the tragic consequences of war and the importance of peace.
You do not need a ticket or reservation to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial itself, as it is located in a public park and always accessible. Walking paths surround the dome, allowing you to view it from multiple angles and take photographs.
If you wish to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, admission is approximately ¥200 for adults and ¥100 for high school students. Children under junior high school age can enter for free. Audio guides and multilingual brochures are available to help you understand the exhibits, which include photographs, artifacts, and personal stories from bomb survivors (hibakusha).
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial was originally constructed in 1915 and designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel. It served as an exhibition hall for promoting industry and arts in Hiroshima. On August 6, 1945, the atomic bomb exploded approximately 600 meters above the building, just 160 meters away from it.
The force of the explosion instantly killed everyone inside, but the building’s structure remained partially standing. After the war, residents debated whether to preserve the building or demolish it. Ultimately, it was decided to keep the ruins as a memorial to the victims and as a symbol of peace.
The dome’s skeletal framework and charred walls have been preserved as they were after the bombing, with only minimal reinforcement added to ensure the structure’s safety.
While visiting the memorial and park, here are some meaningful activities to consider:
Here are some compelling facts about the Hiroshima Peace Memorial:
To make the most of your visit, here are a few helpful tips:
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial stands as a solemn yet hopeful reminder of the past. More than just a historical site, it is a powerful symbol of humanity’s desire to live in peace and prevent such tragedies from happening again. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a traveler seeking meaning, a visit to this sacred place is sure to leave a lasting impression. In the heart of modern Hiroshima, the dome continues to speak quietly but strongly to the world — urging peace, compassion, and remembrance.
