Background

Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph: A Shelter for Souls

A solemn memorial in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, honoring atomic bomb victims and promoting peace for future generations.

4.7

The Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph, located in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, is a monument dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. Built in 1952, it houses a registry of the names of all known victims, regardless of nationality, and serves as a symbol of peace and a reminder of the devastating impact of nuclear war.

A brief summary to Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph

  • Peace Memorial Park - Hiroshima, Nakajimacho, Hiroshima, Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, JP
  • +8182-242-7831
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit the Cenotaph during the annual Peace Memorial Ceremony on August 6th to witness a moving tribute to the victims and a call for world peace.
  • Take time to reflect on the epitaph inscribed on the arch: "Let all the souls here rest in peace, for we shall not repeat the evil".
  • Bring paper cranes to leave at the Cenotaph as a gesture of peace and healing, inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki.
  • Explore the surrounding Peace Memorial Park, including the Peace Memorial Museum and the A-Bomb Dome, to gain a deeper understanding of the bombing's impact.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the A-Bomb Dome, walk south through Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Follow the main path leading towards the Peace Memorial Museum. The Cenotaph is located in the central area of the park, between the museum and the Peace Flame. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and is free of charge.

  • Public Transport

    From Hiroshima Station, take tram line 2 or 6 to the Genbaku-Domu Mae stop. From the tram stop, walk south into Peace Memorial Park. Follow the signs towards the Peace Memorial Museum, the Cenotaph will be on the way. The tram fare is ¥240 for adults and ¥120 for children. The walk from the tram stop is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Taxi

    From Hiroshima Station, take a taxi to Peace Memorial Park. Ask the driver to take you to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The Cenotaph is located in front of the museum. The taxi ride will cost approximately ¥1500-¥2000, depending on traffic. There are no designated parking areas at the park, so public transportation is recommended.

Unlock the Best of Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph

The Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph, formally known as the Memorial Monument for Hiroshima, City of Peace, stands as a solemn tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. Located within the expansive Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the cenotaph was constructed in 1952 to honor the lives lost and to serve as a beacon of hope for a peaceful future. The cenotaph's design, created by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, is simple yet profound. It features a concrete, saddle-shaped arch that covers a stone platform. This arch shape is intended to represent a shelter for the souls of the victims. Inscribed on the arch is the epitaph, "Let all the souls here rest in peace, for we shall not repeat the evil," a powerful message of remembrance and a commitment to preventing future tragedies. Inside the cenotaph lies a registry containing the names of all known victims of the bombing, regardless of their nationality. This inclusive approach underscores the universal impact of the tragedy and the shared desire for peace. The monument is aligned to frame the Peace Flame and the A-Bomb Dome, connecting the past, present, and future in a visual representation of Hiroshima's journey. The cenotaph is a central site for the annual Peace Memorial Ceremony held on August 6th. During the ceremony, attendees pay tribute to the victims and pray for lasting world peace. Visitors often leave paper cranes at the cenotaph, inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young bombing victim who folded cranes in hope of recovery and peace. The surrounding Peace Memorial Park provides a tranquil setting for reflection, with cherry blossom trees and pathways that encourage contemplation on the impact of war and the importance of reconciliation.

Popular Experiences near Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph

Popular Hotels near Hiroshima Victims Memorial Cenotaph

Select Currency