Peace Bells, Hiroshima

Peace Bells, Hiroshima

In the serene and hallowed grounds of Hiroshima Peace Park three Peace Bells stand as resonant symbols of hope, unity, and a shared vision for a world free from the ravages of war. Among these bells, the most renowned and iconic one captures the attention of visitors from near and far.

The Peace Bell, a magnificent creation dating back to 1964, is an awe-inspiring sight. Housed inside a small open-sided structure, this large Japanese bell holds a profound significance. With each melodious toll, the Peace Bell resounds throughout the park, reaching the hearts of all who hear it. The act of ringing the bell not only stands as a gesture of remembrance for the victims of the atomic bombing but also serves as a collective commitment to a future devoid of conflict and violence.

Designed by the talented artist Masahiko Katori, the surface of the bell holds a striking representation of the world. A map of the globe serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of all humanity, emphasizing the need for global cooperation and understanding. At the heart of the bell's design lies an atomic symbol, a solemn reminder of the profound consequences of nuclear warfare.

Inscribed on the bell are words that transcend language barriers. In Greek, Japanese, and Sanskrit, the inscription reads "Know yourself." This deeply philosophical message, attributed to the great thinker Socrates, serves as a profound call for self-reflection and introspection. It reminds us that understanding ourselves and our own motivations is essential in striving for a peaceful world.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Hiroshima. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Peace Bells on Map

Sight Name: Peace Bells
Sight Location: Hiroshima, Japan (See walking tours in Hiroshima)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Hiroshima, Japan

Create Your Own Walk in Hiroshima

Create Your Own Walk in Hiroshima

Creating your own self-guided walk in Hiroshima is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Tour

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Tour

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park stands as a solemn testament to one of the darkest chapters in human history. This park is a haunting reminder of the catastrophic impact of nuclear warfare during World War II. Its grounds, marked by heart-wrenching attractions, bear witness to the immense suffering and loss that occurred on August 6, 1945.

Within this place of sorrow, the attractions etch the...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.1 Km or 0.7 Miles
Hiroshima Introduction Walking Tour

Hiroshima Introduction Walking Tour

Tucked away within the contours of Japan's southwestern expanse, the green and picturesque city of Hiroshima emerges as a profound testament to history's arc and an unwavering beacon of hope for a world united in harmony.

Composed of two kanji characters: "hiro", which means "wide" or "broad," and "shima", which means "island," the...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles