Hiroshima Peace Memorial

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, is a partially preserved building with exposed metal framework and damaged stone walls in central Hiroshima. The structure stands alone near the riverbank, surrounded by a small grassy area, and can be seen clearly from all directions.

The building survived the atomic bomb explosion on August 6, 1945, even though it stood just 150 meters from the hypocenter. The dome structure remained partially upright because the blast pressure came almost directly from above rather than from the side.

During the annual peace ceremony held on August 6, thousands gather at the site to take part in moments of silence and remembrance. Throughout the year, visitors from around the world leave folded paper cranes and flowers along the riverbank, creating a quiet and respectful atmosphere.

The site is open to visitors at all times and can be reached on foot from the nearby peace park. Streetcars operated by Hiroshima Electric Railway stop at Genbaku Dome-Mae, which places you directly across from the memorial.

The ruin remains deliberately unrestored, maintaining the exact condition of destruction since 1945 to serve as a physical witness. Specialists only stabilize the structure against further decay without altering the appearance of the damaged materials.

Location: Ōtemachi

Inception: April 5, 1915

Official opening: August 5, 1915

Height: 25 m

GPS coordinates: 34.39556,132.45361

Latest update: December 3, 2025 09:51