Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall

Overview

The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall is a contemplative underground space dedicated to remembering each individual victim of the atomic bombing. Designed by architect Tange Kenzo's disciple, Maruyama Katsuhiro.

Highlights

• Hall of Remembrance: A circular room lined with 140,000 tiles — one for each estimated victim — surrounding a panoramic reconstruction of the destroyed cityscape at 8:15 AM.
• Testimony Archive: A vast digital archive of survivor testimonies available in multiple languages.
• Water Clock: The design references water, echoing the dying victims' desperate cries for water (mizu).

History

Opened in 2002 by the Japanese government to supplement the Peace Memorial Museum with a more personal, contemplative memorial experience focused on individual remembrance.

Visitor Tips

• Free Admission: Entry is free, making this an essential complement to the nearby Peace Memorial Museum.
• Quiet Space: The underground hall provides a meditative atmosphere for reflection.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.