Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima

Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima (must see)

The Atomic Bomb Dome, also known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, stands as a poignant symbol of remembrance and peace in Hiroshima, Japan. Located within the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, this iconic structure was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The building serves as a solemn memorial to the thousands of lives lost in the devastating atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II.

On August 6, 1945, at 8:15 am, the first nuclear bomb used in warfare detonated almost directly above the Atomic Bomb Dome. Originally, the "T"-shaped Aioi Bridge was the intended target, but the bomb missed slightly, and the dome became the center of the blast. Remarkably, the actual center of the explosion was 490 feet (150 meters) away and 1,968 feet (600 meters) above the ground. Despite being located at the epicenter of the blast, the dome's skeletal remains withstood the destructive force, making it an enduring symbol of resilience and hope amid tragedy.

In the aftermath of the bombing, as Hiroshima began to rebuild, the fate of the Atomic Bomb Dome became a matter of controversy. Some locals wanted it torn down, considering it a painful reminder of the past. However, others passionately advocated for its preservation as a somber testament to the horrors of nuclear warfare and a plea for peace.

In 1966, after much debate, Hiroshima City made the decision to preserve the A-bomb Dome indefinitely. The initiative to conserve the structure was supported by both local and international efforts, seeking funds to ensure its preservation. To date, the Atomic Bomb Dome has undergone two preservation projects to maintain its historical integrity and ensure its lasting legacy.

Open 24 hours

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.

Download The GPSmyCity App

Atomic Bomb Dome on Map

Sight Name: Atomic Bomb Dome
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