Peace Memorial Park

Overview

Peace Memorial Park is a vast green space built atop what was once the busiest commercial district of Hiroshima, obliterated by the atomic bomb. The park is home to over 70 monuments, memorials, and the Peace Memorial Museum.

Highlights

• Peace Boulevard: The wide central promenade connects the museum, cenotaph, flame, and dome in a powerful linear axis designed by Kenzo Tange.
• Peace Bell: Visitors can ring the large bell inscribed with a world map showing no national borders — a prayer for global unity.
• Motoyasu River: The riverside paths offer beautiful views of the Dome reflected in the water, especially at sunset.

History

Before August 6, 1945, this area was Nakajima, a thriving commercial neighborhood. After the bombing, architect Kenzo Tange designed the park and its buildings in the International Modernist style, completed in stages from 1954 onward.

Visitor Tips

• Morning Walk: Early morning is the most peaceful time, with few visitors and soft river light.
• Volunteer Guides: Free English-speaking volunteer guides are available at the museum entrance.
• Duration: 1–2 hours (park only, excluding museum).