Former Faculty of Science Building No. 1 at Hiroshima University, University building in Naka-ku, Hiroshima, Japan.
The former Faculty of Science Building No. 1 at Hiroshima University is a three-story reinforced concrete structure with a distinctive E-shaped footprint when viewed from above, and its original exterior walls remain standing. The layout and outer form are still recognizable today, showing the original design intent clearly.
The building was constructed in 1931 as part of Hiroshima University of Literature and Science and withstood the atomic blast of 1945. The concrete shell protected the structure from the explosion, though fires destroyed much of the interior and the institution was eventually relocated.
The structure shows how Japanese educational institutions rebuilt themselves after the war, blending 1930s design elements with post-war repair work. Visitors can observe how the original architecture was maintained despite severe damage, allowing the institution to continue its mission.
The building is located in the Naka-ku district of Hiroshima and is within walking distance of the nearest transit stop, with clear directional signage nearby. Visitors should allow time to inspect the exterior, as interior access may be limited, and morning or early afternoon visits offer better lighting and fewer crowds.
The building is among the few pre-war structures in Hiroshima whose concrete construction could withstand the extreme heat and pressure of the explosion. This durability made it an important example of how certain building materials can endure under extreme conditions.
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