What are the key attractions in the park?

Key attractions in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park include the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Children's Peace Monument, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and the Memorial Cenotaph. Each site serves to educate visitors and memorialize the victims of the atomic bomb.

How can visitors participate in the peace activities at the park?

Visitors can participate in peace activities by attending annual events such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony held every August 6th, the anniversary of the bombing.

Are guided tours available in the park?

Yes, guided tours are available and are often led by knowledgeable local volunteers or staff. These tours can provide deeper insights into the history and significance of the park’s monuments and exhibits.

What is the best time of year to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park?

The park can be visited year-round, but the most poignant time to visit is around August 6th, during the Peace Memorial Ceremony. Spring and autumn also offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, enhancing the reflective experience.

How much time should I allocate for a visit to the park?

A thorough visit to the park, including a detailed tour of the museum and time to explore the various monuments, typically takes about half a day. However, visitors can adjust their time based on personal interest and schedule.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: History, Location & Tips - Trip To Japan

Hiroshima

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

4.7 (30218)Historical LandmarkTourist AttractionParkHistorical PlacePoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Apr 25, 2026

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park stands at the epicenter of where the atomic bomb detonated on August 6, 1945, killing an estimated 140,000 people by the end of that year. Established in 1954, this 120,000-square-meter park was built on an area that was once a bustling commercial and residential district completely destroyed by the blast. The park serves as a memorial to the victims and a symbol of Japan's commitment to nuclear disarmament and lasting peace.

The park's most iconic structure is the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), the skeletal remains of the former Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, which is one of the few buildings left standing near the hypocenter. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, the dome has been preserved in its damaged state as a stark reminder of nuclear destruction. The Peace Memorial Museum contains artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts from survivors, offering a sobering and educational experience that documents both the bombing and its aftermath.

Within the park grounds, visitors encounter the Cenotaph for the Atomic Bomb Victims, which holds the names of all known victims and is positioned so the Atomic Bomb Dome can be seen through it. The Children's Peace Monument, inspired by Sadako Sasaki who died of radiation-induced leukemia, receives millions of origami paper cranes from around the world annually. The Peace Flame has burned continuously since 1964 and will remain lit until all nuclear weapons are eliminated from the earth. The Peace Bell, which visitors are encouraged to ring, adds to the contemplative atmosphere of the grounds.

The park is located in central Hiroshima and is easily accessible via the Hiroshima Electric Railway (streetcar). Take lines 2 or 6 to Genbaku Dome-mae Station, which places you directly at the park's northern entrance. From Hiroshima Station, the journey takes approximately 15 minutes. The park itself is open 24 hours and requires no admission fee, while the Peace Memorial Museum charges ¥200 for adults (¥100 for high school students, free for middle school students and younger).

Phone

+81 82-504-2390

Website

www.city.hiroshima.lg.jp

Overview

Address

1 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan

Places & attractions near Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiered roofs stands surrounded by trees under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. Sunlight highlights the wooden and white exterior of the building.

Hiroshima Castle

A traditional Japanese wooden temple with a curved roof stands surrounded by trees and a small pine tree in the foreground, under a bright blue sky.

Fudoin Temple

Ondo no Seto Park, Kure

Taishaku Gorge

Places & attractions near Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Castle

Fudoin Temple

Ondo no Seto Park, Kure

Taishaku Gorge

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

The staff at the memorial were absolutely delightful. They were polite, well-spoken, and incredibly friendly. The peaceful atmosphere was truly calming and thought provoking. The information provided was both informative and sobering, leaving me with a newfound understanding. I highly recommend this place to anyone seeking a serene and enlightening experience.

Alfred Whitmore

May 29, 2026

★★★★★ The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was one of the most powerful and moving experiences of my trip to Japan. From the moment I entered, I was impressed by how thoughtfully the exhibits were presented and how effectively they told the story of Hiroshima before, during, and after the atomic bombing. The museum does an excellent job of combining historical facts with personal stories, allowing visitors to understand not only the scale of the tragedy but also the human impact on individuals and families. The photographs, artifacts, and survivor testimonies are presented with great respect and care, creating an experience that is both educational and deeply emotional. What stood out most was the museum’s message of peace and hope. Rather than focusing solely on the destruction, the exhibits encourage reflection on the importance of nuclear disarmament and international cooperation. It is a reminder of how valuable peace is and why future generations must work to preserve it. The museum is well organized, easy to navigate, and offers information in multiple languages, making it accessible to visitors from around the world. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the surrounding Peace Memorial Park provides a beautiful and peaceful setting for reflection after the visit. I would highly recommend the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to anyone visiting Hiroshima. It is not just a museum—it is an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression long after you leave. This is a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. A truly deserving 5-star experience.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is an absolute must-visit and arguably the most important site to see when you are in the city. The park is beautifully maintained, offering a peaceful space to walk through and reflect on the historical significance of the area. Seeing landmarks like the Atomic Bomb Dome in person is a powerful experience that stays with you long after you leave. It serves as a central point for understanding Hiroshima’s history and its dedicated message of global peace. Whether you are there for the history or the quiet atmosphere, the park is a necessary and meaningful stop on any itinerary.

May26-this place is wonderful. It's laid out so well with (linear) placing of fountain, museum, cenotaph, peace flame and vision out to the A Bomb Dome building. The manicured planting, the rejuvenated trees, the expanse of space and various memorials throughout including the children's monument, the poem to peace, the peace lake, the Buddhist bell, the mound of unclaimed souls and many more. Children and school groups are plenty so it can get busy but watch as they pray, read poems and salute to peace at various spots. Emotional, uplifting, worthy day spent. Lest we ever forget that nuclear weapons/bombs must never be used again. Highly recommend. Grab a free volunteer from the museum for 1hr guide round the park. Very worthy. Yoshie was very good and her male colleague who had been to Coventry as they have reciprocal ceremonies too.

Exceptional experience. The park is very clean and extremely well maintained. This place is an absolute MUST to visit. We spent about 6 hours browsing the museum and surrounding peace park. Be prepared for a confronting experience, but one that everyone should see. We entered the museum around 12pm and had no line to get in. It is a slow walk through the museum which is perfect because there is a lot to see/read. I would absolutely come here again.