peace park tour

Peace Park Tour VR/Hiroshima

• Hiroshima , Tour Reviews

Step into history with the immersive Peace Park Tour VR in Hiroshima. This one-of-a-kind experience takes visitors on a journey that brings the city’s past to life like never before.

Led by a knowledgeable guide who resides in Hiroshima, participants are transported back in time using cutting-edge VR technology . Through survivor testimonies and historical photos, the tour provides a vivid depiction of the cityscape before and after the devastating atomic bombing.

The experience also includes a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Park, where participants can engage in fieldwork and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s remarkable recovery. With the VR goggles included and an English-speaking guide provided, this tour is a powerful way to learn about Hiroshima’s history and pay tribute to the resilience of its people.

Quick Takeaways

• Immersive VR tour of Hiroshima’s history
• Led by knowledgeable local guide
• Use of cutting-edge VR technology
• Visit to Hiroshima Peace Park

Not for you? Here's a few more great tours and experiences nearby.

Private Miyajima Oyster and Sakurao Whisky Distillery Tour

• Private Sushi Making Experience & Sushi Lunch In Hiroshima
• Private Full-Day Okunoshima and Hiroshima Sake Breweries Tour
• Private Hiroshima Oyster Lunch Cruise on the Seto Inland Sea

Activity Details

The activity details for the Peace Park Tour VR/Hiroshima include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, flexible payment options , and an 80-minute duration.

With the advancements in Virtual Reality (VR) technology, this tour offers a unique and immersive experience. By preserving survivor testimonies, it emphasizes the importance of remembering and understanding the devastating impact of the atomic bombing on Hiroshima.

The tour allows participants to wear VR goggles and be transported back in time, witnessing the cityscape before the atomic bombing through realistic renderings. It also provides an opportunity to explore the Peace Park with a knowledgeable guide and engage in fieldwork.

The VR experience offers a deeper understanding of the events that took place and the incredible recovery the city has made since then.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, visitors to Hiroshima can embark on a VR tour of the Peace Park and engage in fieldwork, seeing the city’s history before and after the atomic bombing.

This unique virtual reality experience allows participants to witness the cityscape as it was before the devastating event, based on the testimonies of A-bomb survivors. Through VR renderings, they can explore the Peace Park and experience the incredible recovery of the city after the bombing.

The VR tour provides a powerful and immersive way to understand the impact of the atomic bomb and the resilience of the people of Hiroshima.

At the end of the tour, participants have the opportunity to discuss and share their thoughts, further deepening their understanding of the history and significance of Hiroshima.

Full Description

During the Full Description of the Peace Park Tour VR/Hiroshima, participants are transported back in time using VR technology to experience Hiroshima’s cityscape before and after the atomic bombing. This immersive experience is made possible by the use of VR goggles, which allow participants to visualize the city as it was before the devastating event.

The VR renderings are based on the testimonies of A-bomb survivors, also known as Hibakusha, and historical photographs. Through these virtual recreations, participants can witness the bustling city streets and buildings that once stood, and then explore the aftermath of the bombing by witnessing the burnt plain of August 6th.

The tour concludes with an opportunity for participants to discuss and share their thoughts on the experience.

The inclusions for the Peace Park Tour VR/Hiroshima include:

• VR goggles rental: This allows participants to fully enjoy the virtual reality experience . They can witness the cityscape before the atomic bombing and the incredible recovery of the city after the bombing.
• English speaking guide: The presence of an English speaking guide ensures that participants can easily understand and engage with the tour. This enhances their overall understanding and appreciation of the history and significance of Hiroshima Peace Park.
• Transportation to the meeting place: Participants don’t have to worry about finding their own way to the tour location. Transportation to the meeting place is included, providing convenience and relieving them of any hassle.

These inclusions provide convenience and a seamless experience for participants. By providing VR goggles rental, participants can fully enjoy the virtual reality experience. The English speaking guide ensures that participants can easily understand and engage with the tour, enhancing their overall understanding and appreciation of the history and significance of Hiroshima Peace Park. Plus, transportation to the meeting place is included, relieving participants of the hassle of finding their own way to the tour location.

Select Participants and Date

Participants interested in the Peace Park Tour VR/Hiroshima can select their preferred date and check availability for the desired tour. The participant selection process is simple and can be done online through the tour’s website. Once on the website, participants can choose their desired date from the available options and proceed with the booking process. It’s recommended to book in advance, as availability may be limited due to the popularity of the tour.

The meeting point for the tour is at the tourist counter on the 1st floor of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Rest House. It’s important to arrive at the meeting point on time to ensure a smooth start to the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participating in the Peace Park Tour Vr/Hiroshima?

The minimum age requirement for participating in the tour is not specified. However, it is important to note that safety measures for young you will be implemented to ensure a safe and educational experience.

Are There Any Specific Clothing Requirements for the Tour?

Appropriate attire is recommended for the tour, although there are no specific clothing requirements mentioned. Participants are advised to dress comfortably and consider the weather conditions during their visit to the Peace Park.

Can the VR Experience Be Customized Based on Individual Preferences or Interests?

Yes, the VR experience can be customized based on individual preferences and interests. Participants have the option to choose specific aspects they want to focus on during the tour, creating a personalized and immersive experience.

Is There a Limit to the Number of Participants Allowed in Each Tour Group?

The minimum age requirement and tour group size limits are not specified. It is recommended to check the availability and details of the tour to determine if there are any restrictions regarding the number of participants.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses That Participants Should Be Aware Of?

Participants should be aware of additional fees and expenses for the Peace Park Tour VR/Hiroshima. While the VR goggles rental fee is included, food and drinks are not provided. Transportation to the meeting place is included.

The Peace Park Tour VR in Hiroshima offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors to witness the city’s history before and after the atomic bombing. Led by a knowledgeable guide, participants are transported back in time through VR technology, guided by survivor testimonies and photos.

The tour also includes a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Park, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s recovery. This powerful and informative experience honors the resilience of Hiroshima’s people.

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PEACE PARK TOUR VR

While touring Peace Memorial Park, you will be transported back in time through a VR experience that is created based on the testimonies of A-bomb survivors and historical facts including photos. With VR, you can experience the city before the bombing, the day when the city of Hiroshima was burned to the ground, and the path from then to today.

Venue Information / Contact Information

広島市平和記念公園レストハウス

平和公園をめぐり、被爆者の方の証言や過去の写真等の史実をベースにした再現VTRにより当時にタイムスリップします。 被爆前の街並み、ヒロシマの街が焼け野原になった「あの日」、そこから現代に至るまでの道のりをVRを通して体験する希少なツアーをご案内いたします。

PEACE PARK TOUR VR

参加人数　　 1回につき 最大6人 ※グループ・団体（6名以上）で参加希望の場合はお気軽に下記メールよりお問合せください。

料金　　　　 大人（12才〜）1人　/　 3,500円   　　　　　　 小人（6〜11才）1人 / 　 1,000円

 事前予約はコチラから

Hiroshima: Tour to Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island

Hiroshima’s resilience and message of peace are powerfully conveyed through a tour of its iconic landmarks. Visitors begin at Shin-Osaka Station, then journey to the Atomic Bomb Dome , a haunting UNESCO site that stands as a reminder of the 1945 tragedy. The Peace Memorial Museum offers a profound exploration of the human experiences, while the serene Miyajima Island , with its floating torii gate and friendly deer, provides a poignant contrast. This tour promises a profound and thought-provoking experience for those seeking to understand Hiroshima’s complex history and the enduring pursuit of peace.

• Visitors experience the sobering history of the Hiroshima atomic bombing at the Peace Memorial Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome.
• Miyajima Island’s iconic floating torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine provide a scenic contrast to the somber history.
• Interacting with the friendly deer population on Miyajima Island offers a delightful respite from the tour’s emotional content.
• The tour allows participants to reflect on the impact of nuclear warfare and the city’s resilience in promoting peace.
• The tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Hiroshima’s past and its efforts to prevent future atrocities through the museum and memorial sites.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Hiroshima Airport To/From Hiroshima City Private Transfer
• Hiroshima: Full-Day City Highlights Private Guided Tour
• Hiroshima Private Day Tour
• Hiroshima:Helicopter Cruising

Tour Overview

Exploring the historic city of Hiroshima , this comprehensive tour takes visitors through the city’s poignant past and vibrant present. Departing from Shin-Osaka Station, the tour begins with a train journey to Hiroshima, a scenic 110-minute ride.

Highlights include the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome , a sobering reminder of the city’s tragic history, and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum , which provides in-depth insights into the events of August 1945. After a local restaurant lunch, the tour continues to the picturesque Miyajima Island , where visitors can explore the serene Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating Torii Gate, as well as interact with the island’s friendly deer population.

Shin-Osaka Station Departure

Departing from Shin-Osaka Station, the tour group gathers at the designated meeting point, ready to embark on their journey to historic Hiroshima. The meeting location depends on the mode of transportation, which is clearly communicated to the participants prior to the tour.

Once everyone is accounted for, the group sets off, traveling by Shinkansen or other pre-arranged transportation to reach Hiroshima, where they will begin their exploration of the city’s poignant history and the resilience of its people.

Atomic Bomb Dome Visit

Arriving at the Atomic Bomb Dome , the group takes a moment to solemnly reflect on the site’s somber history. The iconic structure, partially destroyed by the atomic blast, stands as a stark reminder of the devastation that occurred on August 6, 1945 .

The guide provides a brief overview, explaining how the dome, once the city’s Industrial Promotion Hall, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a powerful symbol of peace. The group spends 15 minutes contemplating the history and significance of the site before moving on to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum , where they’ll delve deeper into the events and aftermath of the atomic bombing.

Peace Memorial Museum Tour

The group next visits the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum , where they’ll delve deeper into the events and aftermath of the atomic bombing . The museum’s exhibits provide a sobering and educational experience, chronicling the devastation wrought by the bomb and honoring the memory of the victims.

Visitors can explore personal accounts, artifacts, and multimedia displays that convey the human impact of the tragedy . The museum’s mission is to promote peace and raise awareness, inspiring visitors to reflect on the horrors of nuclear warfare and work towards a more peaceful world. Through this immersive experience, the group gains a profound understanding of Hiroshima’s history and the ongoing efforts to prevent such catastrophic events from occurring again.

Miyajima Island Exploration

Next, the group heads to the picturesque Miyajima Island , a sacred site known for its iconic floating torii gate . They stroll through the charming Omotesando Street, browsing local shops and food stalls.

At the Itsukushima Shrine , they admire the stunning architecture and take in the serene atmosphere. The highlight is the famous Floating Torii Gate, which appears to be suspended on the water during high tide.

Afterwards, they explore Omoto Park , interacting with the friendly deer that roam freely. The tour concludes with the return journey to Shin-Osaka Station, leaving the participants with cherished memories of Hiroshima’s cultural and historical treasures.

Itsukushima Shrine and Torii

Visiting the iconic Itsukushima Shrine , the group marvels at its stunning architecture , which seamlessly blends into the serene natural surroundings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its "floating" torii gate, which appears to rise from the waters of the Seto Inland Sea at high tide.

The shrine’s harmonious design, marked by vermilion pillars and sweeping roofs , creates a captivating atmosphere. Key features include:

• The iconic torii gate, which stands in the water during high tide.
• The shrine’s main hall, with its intricate carvings and impressive scale.
• The shrine’s five-story pagoda , a classic example of Japanese architectural style.
• The natural scenery of the island, including the surrounding forests and coastline.

Deer Interaction Experience

As part of the tour, visitors delight in the deer interaction experience on Miyajima Island. The island is home to a thriving population of friendly, semi-tame deer that roam freely throughout the grounds. Visitors can purchase special deer crackers and feed the animals, often having them eat right out of their hands.

It’s a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat . The deer are accustomed to human interaction and often approach visitors curiously. This memorable experience adds to the enchanting atmosphere of the island and provides a delightful contrast to the somber history explored earlier in the tour.

Return to Shin-Osaka Station

Returning to Shin-Osaka Station marks the end of the Hiroshima tour’s captivating journey . The 2.5-hour return train ride allows visitors to reflect on the profound experiences of the day.

After exploring the powerful Atomic Bomb Dome , immersive Peace Memorial Museum , and the serene Itsukushima Shrine , the tour participants can:

• Discuss the lessons learned about the devastating impact of nuclear warfare.
• Appreciate the resilience and peace-building efforts of the Hiroshima community.
• Share their personal connections and takeaways from the poignant sites visited.
• Prepare to return home with a deeper understanding of Hiroshima’s history and its enduring message of peace.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Hiroshima Port Shore Excursion Private Transfer
• Hiroshima: Peace Memorial, Itsukushima and Miyajima Tour
• Hiroshima Miyajima and Bomb Dome Private Tour
• Iwakuni Airport To/From Hiroshima City Private Transfer
• From Hiroshima: Private Tour to Kure
• Osaka/Kyoto: Hiroshima and Miyajima Trip With Indian Lunch

Frequently Asked Questions

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour appears moderately accessible for individuals with disabilities. It includes guided transportation, museum and shrine admissions, and opportunities to interact with deer, though the full itinerary may pose challenges for those with mobility or accessibility needs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Light layers are recommended, as the weather can be variable throughout the day.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Meet Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to meet specific interests. Customers can request changes to the itinerary or focus areas to suit their preferences while maintaining the core highlights of the tour.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?

The tour itinerary can be adjusted based on weather conditions. In case of inclement weather, the guide will work with travelers to modify the tour, prioritizing indoor activities like the Peace Memorial Museum to ensure a memorable and comfortable experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour does not specify any dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Participants should notify the tour guide in advance of any special dietary needs, which the guide will aim to accommodate where possible.

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The Hiroshima tour offers a powerful and thoughtful experience, guiding visitors through the city’s history and message of peace . From the haunting Atomic Bomb Dome to the serene Miyajima Island, the tour provides a profound understanding of Hiroshima’s resilience, reminding participants of the devastating impacts of nuclear warfare and the importance of promoting global harmony.

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Peace Park Tour VR (English operation)

You will be transported back to that day, using your vr headset.

This experience is led by Hiroshimaʼs local English-Speaking tour guides. VR renderings allow you to experience Hiroshimaʼs cityscape before the atomic bombing, the burnt plain of August 6th, and the cityʼs incredible recovery. It is based on the testimonies of atomic bomb survivors and photos from the time Unfortunately, the number of testimonies of “Hibakusha”, A-bomb survivors has been gradually decreasing in the nearly 80 years since the war. During this unique tour of Hiroshima Peace Park, you will stop at several points along the way to put on your VR headset and be transported back in time. Based on the testimonies of atomic bomb survivors and photos from the time, VR renderings allow you to experience Hiroshima’s cityscape before the atomic bombing, the burnt plain of August 6th, and the city’s incredible recovery. This experience is led by Hiroshima’s local English-Speaking tour guides, who field questions and facilitate dialogue along the way. And the end of this tour, we talk about what we thought of each other.

Tours are conducted daily from 10:30~11:50am (80 minutes)

– Adult (12+) ¥3,500/person – Child (6-11) ¥1,000/person – Maximum group size: 6 people *For larger group reservations, please contact us at [email protected]

Cancel policy

10 to 8 days prior to the start of the tour: 20% of the tour fee; 7 to 2 days prior to the start of the tour: 30% of the tour fee. One day prior to the start of the tour: 40% of the tour fee. On the day of the tour: 50% of the trip fee. Cancellation or no-show after the start of the trip: 100% of the trip fee

• Destinations

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR (8 Easy Steps)

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Visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is an unforgettable experience. It will resonate within you, leave you speechless, and make you cry. It is one of the most powerful experiences that I ever had while traveling.

Here is a fascinating Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park self-guided walking tour .

However, if you feel like joining a guided tour, my recommendation is to attend Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Walk Tour . You will have a local guide by your side who will give you an in-depth insight into the history of Hiroshima.

Another tour that I enjoyed was Hiroshima Cycling Peace Tour with a Local Guide . This tour is about 2 hours long and you will bicycle around Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and see the Atomic Bomb Dome, the Cenotaph, Children’s Peace Monument, and the Peace Bell. It is a small group tour limited to no more than 10 people.

However, now, with no further delay, follow my Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park self-guided walking tour and learn about the history of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the location and significance of Hiroshima’s memorials and monuments, and unforgettable exhibits at Hiroshima Peace Museum.

Check Out These Helpful Posts About Hiroshima:

10 Amazing Things You Can’t Miss on Your First Visit to Hiroshima

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How to Visit Hiroshima and Miyajima in One Day (3 Easy Steps)

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Before we dive into a step-by-step Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park self-guided walking tour, here is Hiroshima At-A-Glance Guide which covers how to get to Hiroshima, how to get around, and where to stay in Hiroshima. I know it will help you plan your visit.

Hiroshima At-A-Glance Guide

Here are a few highlights about Hiroshima to help you plan your visit:

• Buy JR Pass

Before you even start planning your visit to Hiroshima, make sure to buy  JR Pass . I am highly recommending it! You should get it before traveling to Japan. It will save you a lot of money! You can buy it here .

• How to Get to Hiroshima from Kyoto, or Osaka

If you have JR Pass and you are traveling from Kyoto or Osaka , then take the Shinkansen Hikari from Kyoto to Shin Osaka in Osaka. From Osaka at Shin Osaka, switch to Shinkansen Sakura for Hiroshima. The trip takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes from Kyoto and 1 hour and 30 minutes from Osaka.

Mizuho and Nozomi trains take 1 hour 25 minutes however, these trains are not covered by the pass.

• How to Get Around in Hiroshima

My recommendation is to buy Visit Hiroshima Tourist Pass . It is a great tool that will help you save money on transportation while you are visiting Hiroshima and the surrounding areas.

Another option is to use  Hiroshima Sightseeing Loop Bus (Meipuru-pu). It is basically a hop-on hop-off   circulation bus that goes around all the major sightseeing spots within Hiroshima city.

• Where to Stay in Hiroshima

Downtown Hiroshima is where you want to stay while you are exploring Hiroshima and the surrounding areas.

Downtown is right in the center of Hiroshima. Specifically, it is in-between Hiroshima Station and the Peace Memorial Park. You will be within a walking distance of some of the major tourist attractions, plus there are plenty of places to get a bite to eat and do some shopping as well.

Here are a few hotels that I am recommending that you check out:

Hotel Granvia Hiroshima is one of my favorite hotels that I always book if I am visiting Hiroshima. I like how close it is located to Hiroshima Station. In addition, all around the hotel, there is no shortage of shops, restaurants, and all kinds of small eating places, if you just need to grab a quick bite.

RIHGA Royal Hotel Hiroshima is another good choice for staying while you are visiting Hiroshima. It is perfectly located next to most of Hiroshima’s attractions. In addition, it is connected to a massive mall complete with countless food and shopping options.

Hiroshima Washington Hotel is another hotel that has a great location. It is just a short walk from Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. In addition, there are many options for shopping and eating right next to the hotel.

• 1. Hiroshima At-A-Glance Guide
• 2. Events Leading to Atomic Bomb Explosion
• 3. Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima
• 4. Hiroshima Bombing Aftermath
• 5. Nagasaki Bombing
• 6. Hiroshima Today
• 7. Map of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour
• 8. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour
• 8.1. Atomic Bomb Dome
• 8.2. Hypocenter of Hiroshima Atomic Bomb
• 8.3. Children's Peace Monument
• 8.4. The Flame of Peace Sculpture
• 8.5. Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims
• 8.6. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
• 8.7. Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims
• 8.8. Aogiri Trees Exposed to the Bombing
• 9. Intrepid Scout's Final Thoughts About Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Events Leading to Atomic Bomb Explosion

In July 1945 the U.S. successfully tested a working atomic bomb.

Robert Oppenheimer (1904-1967), an American theoretical physicist and a director of the Los Alamos Laboratory of the Manhattan Project , chose to name the atomic bomb test as “Trinity” test .

Image Credit: Author Berlyn Brixner via Wikimedia Commons Trinity Test Fireball / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

When Germany surrendered to the Allies in May 1945, it became clear that the atomic bomb might be used on Japan. Japan continued to refuse to surrender to the Allies and publicly rejected Potsdam Declaration .

Image Credit: Presidential Collection of Harry S. Truman via Wikimedia Commons

Seated in the garden of Cecilienhof Palace in Potsdam, Germany, L to R: British Prime Minister Clement Attlee, President Harry S. Truman, and Soviet Prime Minister Josef Stalin. L to R, behind them: Adm. William Leahy, British foreign minister Ernest Bevin, Secretary of State James Byrnes, and Soviet foreign minister Vyacheslav Molotov. They are all attending the Potsdam Conference.

The general opinion was that the Japanese would fight to the bitter end.

The invasion of the islands by combat forces was calculated to be costly. An opinion that dropping one or more atomic bombs might convince the Japanese that further fighting was futile. And, since the atomic bomb was available, President Truman authorized the attack on Hiroshima.

Charles Maier , a professor of history at Harvard University, said that while it was possible for Truman to have made another decision, he said “It would have been hard to justify to the American public why he prolonged the war when this weapon was available.”

Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima

A directive approved by President Truman and issued by Secretary of War Henry Stimson and General of the Army George Marshall , ordered the Army Air Force’s 509th Composite Group to attack Hiroshima, Kokura, Niigata, or Nagasaki weather permitting.

Thus, Hiroshima was chosen because it had not been targeted during the U.S. Air Force’s conventional bombing raids on Japan. As a result, it would give a true indication of the effect of the impact of the atomic bomb. Also, Hiroshima was an important military base.

At 8:15 am on August 6th, 1945 the city of Hiroshima fell victim to the atomic bombing.

The atomic bomb with the codename Little Boy , was dropped by the United States Army Air Forces from the Boeing B-29 Bomber Superfortress Enola Gay . It was named for Enola Gay Tibbets, the mother of the pilot, Colonel Paul W. Tibbets, Jr.

Image Credit: U.S. National Archives, RG 77-AEC. Chuck Hansen via Wikimedia Commons / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

The bomb was dropped by a parachute. The detonation was caused by firing one piece of uranium 235 into another and occurred at 580 m (1,900 ft) above the ground after falling for 45 seconds.

Image Credit: Author U.S. Navy public Affairs Resources Website via Wikimedia Commons. Left picture : At the time this photo was made, smoke billowed 20,000 feet above Hiroshima while smoke from the burst of the first atomic bomb had spread over 10,000 feet on the target at the base of the rising column. Six planes of the 509th Composite Group participated in this mission: one to carry the bomb ( Enola Gay ), one to take scientific measurements of the blast ( The Great Artiste ), the third to take photographs ( Necessary Evil ), while the others flew approximately an hour ahead to act as weather scouts (08/06/1945). Bad weather would disqualify a target as the scientists insisted on a visual delivery. The primary target was  Hiroshima , the secondary was  Kokura , and the tertiary was  Nagasaki . Right picture : Atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, taken by Charles Levy.  / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Hiroshima Bombing Aftermath

The intended target for the bombing was the Aioibashi bridge , a distinctive t-shaped structure that was easily recognizable from the air – just to the north of where Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park stands now.

The damage came from three main effects : blast, fire, and radiation. The blast was the result of x-ray-heated air, which sent a shock wave in all directions. Next, the fireball of the blinding light and heat created fires that merged into a firestorm.

Lastly, the radiation: soon after the explosion, a giant mushroom cloud rose upward carrying dust, dirt, ash, and other debris contaminated with radioactive fission products high into the air. It mixed with the water vapor in the air and then fell back to earth in what came to be called “black rain.”

The entire city was virtually obliterated.

Image Credit: U.S. Navy public Affairs Resources Website via Wikimedia Commons / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

It is estimated that over 70,000 people were killed instantly and more than 70,000 suffered fatal injuries. Many more who managed to survive sustained permanent physical and psychological damage. Many still endure the effects today.

Nagasaki Bombing

On the morning of August 9th, 1945, the Americans dropped a second, bigger atomic bomb. The original target was Kokura, however, Kokura was shielded by thick clouds on that day, so the bomb was dropped on Nagasaki. The final death toll was calculated at least 50,000.

On August 10, 1945, Japan offered to surrender to the Allies.

Hiroshima Today

Today, Hiroshima has recovered into a bustling manufacturing hub with a population of 1.1 million people and counting.

However, the people of Hiroshima have certainly not forgotten the fact that their city was once transformed to rubble by an atomic bomb. The A-Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park with its monuments and memorials, and the museum will forever tell the story of the cruel tragedy of the atomic bombing.

Every year on August 6, the day the bomb was dropped, Hiroshima holds a ceremony in Peace Memorial Park.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Ceremony / Image Credit: terrykimura via Flickr / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Map of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

To Print the Map of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Click: HERE

Image Credit: Marc Heiden via Wikimedia Commons / Map Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park 

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park serves as a memorial to the people who were killed in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6th, 1945. It was designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange and opened to the public in 1954.

The park has a total area of 122,00 square meters and houses a museum, numerous memorials, and monuments.

While visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, I found it difficult to imagine that this quiet and spacious triangle-shaped piece of land bordered by two rivers was once a busy commercial and residential downtown area.

And now, here is a step-by-step Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park self-guided walking tour:

Atomic Bomb Dome

The first stop in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) – now commonly called the Atomic Bomb Dome or A-Bomb Dome.

The building was designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel and was completed in 1915. It served as the Hiroshima Prefectural Commercial Exhibition Hall and housed national and municipal governmental offices.

The building was located just 160 meters from the epicenter of the blast and amazingly, it was one of the few structures in the area to remain upright.

Atomic Bomb Dome / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guide Walking Tour

Atomic Bomb Dome was designed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

At night, with the lighting, the A-Bomb Dome and other memorial monuments look different than in the daytime. Darkness isolates them from the lively modern city, which makes them much more impressive to view at this hour.

Atomic Bomb Dome at Night / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Hypocenter of Hiroshima Atomic Bomb

The Hypocenter of the Hiroshima atomic bomb is marked with a memorial plaque.

The atomic bomb targeted Aioibashi Bridge, yet it exploded directly above Shima Hospital. The building was destroyed instantly, and it is estimated that 80 patients, nurses, and other individuals disappeared without a trace.

It was a sobering experience for me to stand in that spot and look up into the sky.

Children's Peace Monument

Children’s Peace Monument is a tribute to Sadako Sasaki and all the children who perished in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.

Sadako was exposed to the A-bomb at the age of two but grew into a strong and healthy girl. Nine years later, she suddenly contracted leukemia. After an eight-month battle with the disease, she succumbed.

Children’s Peace Monument / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guide Walking Tour

Hiroshima Children’s Peace Monument is also known as the “Tower of a Thousand Cranes” . When you get to the monument, you will see brightly colored cranes everywhere.

These cranes came from the Japanese tradition of origami or paper folding. Sadako believed that if she folded 1,000 origami cranes she would recover. She continued folding them to the last moments of her life. Today, paper cranes are known as the symbol of peace.

Sadako’s death triggered a movement to build a monument for the children who perished due to the atomic bomb. Children’s Peace Monument was completed on May 5th, 1958.

The Flame of Peace Sculpture

The Flame of Peace sculpture was designed by Kenzo Tange. The base of the sculpture represents two wrists joined together, and the two wings on either side represent two palms facing upwards to the sky.

The Flame of Peace sculpture was designed both to console the souls of the thousands who died begging for water and to express the hopes for the abolition of nuclear weapons and the realization of lasting world peace.

The flame at the top was lit on August 1, 1964, and has been burning ever since in protest of nuclear weapons, and will continue to burn until there are no nuclear weapons left on earth. Source: Hiroshima Peace Tourism

The Flame of Peace Sculpture / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims

Cenotaph , also known as the Memorial Monument for Hiroshima for the A-bomb Victims is located in the center of the park. It consists of a stone coffer beneath an arch. Within the coffer is a record of the names of victims of the atomic bombing.

Cenotaph is inscribed with the phrase: “Let all the souls here rest in peace for we shall not repeat the evil.”

Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was built by the city of Hiroshima and it was opened to the public in 1950.

The museum collects materials that convey the horror of Hiroshima’s atomic bombing. It displays artifacts, photographs, and paintings that show Hiroshima before and after the bombing.

It demonstrates the present current status of the nuclear age.

The museum has been going through extensive renovation projects since 2017. It reopened its doors on April 25th, 2019 with two new permanent exhibitions, titled Hiroshima on August 6 and Victims and Survivors .

The exhibitions tell the story of the day the Allied forces dropped an atomic bomb on the city of Hiroshima at the close of WWII and its aftermath.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum/ Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum / Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Self-Guided Walking Tour

• Third Floor of the Museum

Introductory Exhibit – see the photographs, panels, videos, and panorama models of Hiroshima. See the daily lives of people in Hiroshima and learn how they were lost in the atomic bombing.

The Dangers of Nuclear Weapons – get informed about the development, testing, and use of atomic bombs; learn about the damage caused by shock waves, firestorms, and radiation.

• Second Floor of the Museum

Hiroshima History – learn about Hiroshima during the war, recovery efforts after the war, and the struggles to eliminate nuclear weapons.

• First Floor

Outline of Atomic Bomb Damage – Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Special Exhibition Room – this is the most poignant part of the museum. Here, you will see the victims’ belongings donated to the museum by the victims of the terrible attack or their family members.

Here, you will read the accounts of survivors which show the misery of the bomb attack.

The photographs of the effects of the bombing and the results of the subsequent radiation are heart-wrenching.

For opening hours and admission fees click here .

Intrepid’s Tip: 

Allow at least 2 hours for your visit. Enter the museum from the first floor and take the escalator to the third floor. Start the tour from the third floor and work your way down to the first floor.

Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims

This memorial is a very special place. It was opened by the Japanese government in 2002 and is a place to mourn the victims of the atomic bombing .

It contains thousands of written and video testimonials by survivors of the bombings and photographs of those who were killed.

Aogiri Trees Exposed to the Bombing

These aogiri (Chinese parasol) trees were originally growing 1.3 kilometers from the epicenter of the explosion and took the full force of the heat and blast.

Interestingly enough, although apparently dead, the next spring after the bombing, they started to bud again, giving hope to the people of the city.

The trees were transplanted to their current location in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park by the east building of the Peace Memorial Museum in 1973.

Intrepid Scout's Final Thoughts About Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

I hope the visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park leaves you as struck as I was by the brutal physical, mental and emotional agony felt by so many.

War is hell. It does not matter who started it or who ended it. Or, if the acts were justified or not. War is hell. War affects everyone.

The park’s paths are filled with memorials, monuments, and tributes. One after the next, all of them are reminders of the inhumanity of war.

But, while visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, I felt something else as well: I felt that there is hope for forgiveness and above all – hope for peace.

Now, It Is Your Turn, I Would Like to Hear Back from You!

Are you planning your trip to Hiroshima? What is on your list of things to do in Hiroshima?

Please let me know! Drop me a quick comment right below!

Click on any of the images below to get inspired and to help you with the planning process for your trip to Hiroshima!

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4 thoughts on “ Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR (8 Easy Steps) ”

Great photos. Thank you for the information about the museum. If I don’t have time to view the whole building, it is nice to have a guide of what I should focus on.

Great! I am glad you like it. There is so much to see and experience that you need to stay focused. As always, thank you for your comments!

This is the first time that I’ve heard of the Hiroshima Memorial Park, but I’ve always assume that there was one. I love that you started with so much history (I’m a history teacher) and then went on to share what Hiroshima is like today. I would love to visit this memorial park one day.

Thank you, Leah. I am a history fanatic. I love it. I study all the historical events before I travel to any destination.

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• Guide Services
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Exhibitions & Events

• Permanent Exhibitions
• Special Exhibitions
• Other Exhibitions
• Online A-bomb Survivor Testimony
• Learn about the A-bomb and Peace
• Outline of the facilities
• Museum History
• Summary of the Number of Visitors
• Related Facilities
• Schmoe House
• About the Site

A single atomic bomb indiscriminately killed tens of thousands of people, profoundly disrupting and altering the lives of the survivors. Through belongings left by the victims, A-bombed artifacts, testimonies of A-bomb survivors and related materials, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum conveys to the world the horrors and the inhumane nature of nuclear weapons and spreads the message of “No More Hiroshimas.”

The museum currently receives a large number of visitors. Visitors may be required to wait for about an hour to purchase tickets on-site when the museum is crowded. We strongly recommend purchasing web tickets online in advance.

The extended opening hours (7:30-8:30 and 17:30-19:00 from September to November; 7:30-8:30 and 16:30-18:00 from December to February)  are for those with reservations ONLY. It is highly recommended to visit the museum during the extended hours as it is easier for visitors to explore the permanent exhibitions at their own pace in a less crowded environment. (Designated web tickets must be purchased online in advance to enter the museum during these extended opening hours.)

Visitors with other purposes* may enter the museum without waiting in line for tickets. (*Attending special exhibitions, Talks by A-bomb Legacy Successors/Hibakusha Family Member Legacy Successors, or participating in guided tours by Hiroshima Peace Volunteers, etc.)

Future Opening Hours

● To change exhibits, the Museum will temporarily be closed from February 18-20, 2025.

Available Programs (Free of Charge)

Guided Tours by Hiroshima Peace Volunteers

Talks by A-bomb Legacy Successors/ Hibakusha Family Member Legacy Successors

Video Screening

【Important】Opening Hours Extension and Online Ticket Purchasing and Reservation Services February 1, 2024

[Important] We take the measures to ensure the safety of all our visitors. May 8, 2023

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Special Exhibition 2024: New Arrivals Exhibit —Items donated in FY 2022— September 5, 2024 NEW

Original A-bomb Drawings by Survivors Replaced in the Permanent Exhibition September 3, 2024 NEW

Nominated for UNESCO "Memory of the World" Visual Archives of Hiroshima Atomic Bombing — Photographs and Films in 1945 Released August 2, 2024

Route map "Sightseeing Guide to Learn About the G7 Hiroshima Summit and the Realities of the Atomic Bombing" July 29, 2024

Information on “PEACE MAIL” December 28, 2023

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum Special Exhibition 2023: New Arrivals Exhibit—Items donated in FY 2021— September 14, 2023

Atomic bomb survivor testimony videos now available August 6, 2023

New: Digital Maps of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum March 9, 2022

New Special Exhibitions List

There are no Special Exhibitions currently held.

New Events List

• Video Theater Video Screening Current Events
• Lecture Talks by A-bomb Legacy Successors/ Hibakusha Family Member Legacy Successors (held daily) Current Events

Peace Database

Search A-bomb and peace related materials managed by the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

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​Hiroshima Local Tours

Peace Memorial Park

One-Day Miyajima and Peace Memorial Park Tour

Visit two world heritage sites efficiently on the same day , tour overview, visit " must see spots " in hiroshima:, miyajima (world heritage), atomic bomb dome (world heritage), peace memorial park and museum, 5 packages (a, b, c, d & e)  available:, a package (private guide tour) : other expenses than guiding fee  for both you and guide are excluded, b package (all-inclusive tour) : a + transportation + admission + cultural experiences + safety enhancement)  , c package (b + video diary production), d package (b + local jr fare): if you have no jr rail pass, please choose this, e package (c + local jr fare): if you have no jr rail pass, please choose this,               please see what are included  in the following table:   , tour prices (jpy), adults (12 years old or above)  :, solo traveler course is available only on this website ​, us$ prices are shown at 130/$ for reference only, children (6 to 11 years old)  and  infants (0 to 5 years old) :, 1/ to be counted as the number of adults in a package (guide only), max. capacity : 10 people including adults, children & infants. if more than 10, please contact us for suggestion (e-mail: [email protected] ) . we might need a chartered bus., itinerary (approx. 7 hours), 【hiroshima station/meeting point <-- (train & ferry boat) --> miyajima】, itsukushima shrine and torii (60 min), daishoin temple (45 min.), 5-storied pagoda and omotesando street (45 min.), 【miyajima -- (ferry boat, train & monorail) --> peace memorial park】, atomic bomb dome  & peace memorial park (65 min.), peace memorial museum (40 min.), 【museum <-- (bus) --> hiroshima station】, other information, meeting point: hiroshima station 2f shinkansen exit, pickup service: if you want hotel/port pick-up services, please let us know, starting time: 9:00 a.m. (adjustable depending on customers desires), payment: cash in jpy currency, min. number of participants: 1 adult   (s olo traveler course is available only on this web), tour conductor: 1 person, responsibility: planned and conducted by hiroshima local tours, miyajima  -- visit miyajima, the island of gods, to see the floating itsukushima shrine and enjoy daishoin temple founded 1,200 years ago. you will better understand japanese cultures by knowing how japanese ancient people co-lived with shinto and comparing shrine and temple..

Atomic-Bomb Dome, Cenotaph for the Atomic-Bomb Victims, Peace Memorial Museum and other  monuments  - We go through the key monuments, offer your folded paper crane there, then enter Hiroshima Memorial Museum. For more details, please click here .

HOW TO BOOK

Please send the following information to our e-mail address: [email protected], tour name & package, participant numbers (adults/children/infants), questions if any, we send you our proposed itinerary and estimate for review, your concurrence on the contents, we send you the contract document for finalization, please feel free to contact us if you have any questions., terms & conditions, privacy policy.

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• Nagasaki City
• Nagasaki Peace Park

Nagasaki Peace Park 平和公園

9 Matsuyama-machi, Nagasaki-shi, Nagasaki-ken

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A serene and sobering memorial to the victims of the atomic bombing

• The majestic Peace Statue, symbolizing a pledge to eternal peace
• The solemn Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
• The Hypocenter Park, with a monument marking the atomic bomb hypocenter, the point where the bomb was dropped

How to Get There

Nagasaki Peace Park is a few kilometers north of the Urakami city center.

Trams connect the park with Nagasaki Station. The closest tram stop is Peace Park (Heiwa Koen); the park is a five-minute walk away.

A dignified plea for peace

Designed by local artist Seibo Kitamura as a testament to those who perished, the park's majestic Peace Statue is a major draw. Its outstretched arms warn about the dangers of nuclear weapons while also gesturing toward a more peaceful future.

Visit on the anniversary of the atomic bombing, on August 9, to partake in the Nagasaki Peace Ceremony and witness an inspirational Peace Declaration delivered by the Mayor of Nagasaki to the world.

Contemplating the horrors of war

The Fountain of Peace at the south end of the park commemorates those who died searching for water in the bomb's aftermath. Don't miss a heartwrenching poem written by a nine-year-old girl at the time who was exposed to the atomic bombing, in which she describes the desperation of those needing to quench their thirst.

Monuments, memorials, and maidens

On a more positive note, a row of monuments contributed by various nations conveys sympathy and goodwill from around the world. Collectively forming a zone of symbols of world peace, the thought-provoking pieces are a must-see.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Nagasaki Peace Park, Nagasaki | A Place for World Peace

One of the most emotional places in Japan is the so-called Peace Park (Heiwa Koen in Japanese). It is located in Nagasaki , a few minutes’ walk from the atomic bomb museum . And it commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing in Nagasaki. Built on what was once a prison, the park offers a wonderful view. It also leads the visitor to reflect on the importance of peace, not only in Japan but in the whole world.

Peace Statue

In the center of the park is the icon of Nagasaki Prefecture, the Peace Statue, sculpted by Seibo Kitamura . It is 10 meters high with the right hand pointing towards the sky. Hereby it refers to the threat of nuclear weapons that is still there while the extended left hand symbolizes eternal peace.

Its soft face symbolizes divine grace and its closed eyes offer a prayer for the peace of the victims’ souls. The bent right leg means meditation, and the left leg extended the initiative to stand up and rescue the people of the world. This statue was created as a symbol of reflection in the struggle for global harmony. Being 10 meters tall, it conveys the depth of knowledge and beauty of health and virility.

In front of the statue, there is a black marble vault with the names of the victims of the atomic bomb. The survivors who died in the following years area also commemorated. And finally, there is a nearby plaque with the words of the sculptor, explaining the meaning of the statue. The plaque reads (translated into English): “After experiencing that nightmare war, that carnage that curds the blood, that unbearable horror, who could leave without praying for peace?”

Monuments and Fountain

On both sides, in the park’s paths, there are important monuments for peace donated by the following countries: Cuba, China, The Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Germany, Netherlands, Poland, Italy, Turkey, New Zealand, Australia, and the US city St. Paul City.

In the south of the park is the Fountain of Peace. It was built in August 1969, as a prayer for the repose of the souls of the many victims of the atomic bomb. The fountain specifically commemorates those who died in search of water, and it is a dedication to world peace. The lines of a poem by a girl named Sachiko Yamaguchi are engraved on a black stone plate in front of the fountain. She was nine years old at the time of the bombing. It reads: “I was thirsty beyond what I could resist. The surface of the water was oily, but I wanted the water so much that I drank it as it was.”

Every year on August 9, a peace commemoration ceremony is held in front of the statue. This is the anniversary of the atomic bombing. At that time, the mayor of Nagasaki delivers a Declaration of Peace to the world.

Hypo Center

After you go down the long escalator, there is another part of Peace Park called Prayer Zone. There is a tall black pillar which is the monument of the hypocenter. The bomb exploded 503 meters above the ground.  There used to be a tennis court right below the spot where the bomb was dropped. Now it is a quiet park where people visit to pray for the bomb victims. There is a stone box in front of the pillar. It contains the name list of all the victims who died from the bomb. Visiting the Nagasaki Peace Park can be one of the most memorable activities while you are on a holiday in Japan.

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we create perfect Japan package tours including destinations like Nagasaki. Check out our group tours and private tours , or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Access Information

Access From  Heiwakoen tram station or Matsuyamacho bus stop Hours You can visit freely for 24 hours.

Peace Park Area Map

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