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Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters

Explore the remnants of Hiroshima's Imperial Army Headquarters, a historical landmark offering insight into Japan's military past and the city's resilience.

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The Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters stand as a historical landmark in Hiroshima, Japan, offering a glimpse into the city's military past. The site, once a hub for military operations during World War II, serves as a reminder of Hiroshima's resilience following the atomic bombing in 1945.

A brief summary to Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters

  • 21 Motomachi, Hiroshima, Motomachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0011, JP

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the historical context and significance of the ruins.
  • Bring a camera to capture the haunting yet beautiful remnants of the structure.
  • Read the informative plaques closely to gain a comprehensive understanding of the site's history.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Castle for a holistic experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Hiroshima Station, head south towards Hiroshima Ekimae road. Walk straight for about 10 minutes until you reach Peace Boulevard (Heiwa Odori). Turn right onto Peace Boulevard and continue walking for approximately 15 minutes, passing Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Stay on the main road until you reach Motomachi. The Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters are located at 21 Motomachi, Naka Ward. Alternatively, from the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, exit the park and walk south along the river. Turn right onto Motomachi Street and continue walking for about 10 minutes. The Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    From Hiroshima Station, take the Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) tram Line 2 towards Eba. Get off at the 'Hondori' stop, about a 15-minute ride. Walk north along Hondori Street until you reach the intersection with Motomachi Street. Turn left onto Motomachi Street and walk for about 5 minutes. The Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters will be on your right. The fare for a single tram ride is ¥240. IC cards like ICOCA and Paspy are accepted. A one-day pass for unlimited tram use is available for ¥700.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from Hiroshima Station. The ride to the Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters takes approximately 10 minutes. The estimated fare is ¥1,200. Alternatively, a sightseeing taxi service can be hired for a more extensive tour of Hiroshima. Hiroko Taxi offers a three-hour tour of Hiroshima City for ¥17,400.

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Discover more about Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters

The Ruins of Hiroshima Imperial Army Headquarters, located in Hiroshima's Naka Ward, offer a poignant look into Japan's wartime history. Constructed in 1894, the complex served as the headquarters for the Imperial 5th Division and played a crucial role during the Second World War. In September 1894, the Imperial headquarters were moved to Hiroshima, with a building inside the Hiroshima Castle complex designated as the provisional quarters for the Meiji Emperor, who resided there for seven months. On August 6, 1945, the atomic bomb devastated Hiroshima, destroying the headquarters and claiming the lives of over 400 people. Today, the ruins consist mainly of the stone foundations of the military barracks and the remnants of a concrete bunker. The site is located less than one kilometer from ground zero. Excavations have revealed the extensive scale of the ruins, highlighting their significance as one of the largest remnants of the atomic bombing. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its history through informative plaques. The atmosphere is reflective, offering a space for contemplation and remembrance. The ruins serve as a reminder of the importance of peace and the sacrifices made during a tumultuous period in history.

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