Background

Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan: A Silent Witness

Witness Hiroshima's resilience at the Former Bank of Japan, a historic building that survived the atomic blast and now stands as a symbol of peace.

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The Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan stands as a poignant reminder of the atomic bombing. Built in 1936, it miraculously survived the blast just 380 meters from the hypocenter and is now open to the public as a historical learning space and art venue.

A brief summary to Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan

  • Former Bank of Japan Hiroshima Branch, 5-21 Fukuromachi, Hiroshima, Fukuromachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0036, JP
  • +8182-227-4100
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • The building is open to the public from 10:00 to 17:00, but hours may be extended for special exhibits.
  • Admission is free, making it an accessible and educational experience for all.
  • Consider visiting the basement exhibition room for a permanent display of materials related to Hiroshima's history.
  • Note that the building is closed from December 29th to January 3rd.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, head east along Peace Boulevard (Heiwa Odori). Turn right onto Fukuromachi Hondori Street. The Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan will be on your left, approximately a 5-minute walk. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Hiroshima Station, take the Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) streetcar line 1 or 5 towards Hiroshima Port. Get off at the Fukuro-machi stop. The Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan is a short walk from the streetcar stop. The fare is a flat rate of ¥240 for adults. IC cards like Suica and Icoca are accepted.

  • Taxi

    From Hiroshima Station, a taxi ride to the Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥1500 and ¥2500. Note that taxi fares in Hiroshima start at ¥620, with additional charges per kilometer.

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Discover more about Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan

The Former Hiroshima Branch of the Bank of Japan is a historical landmark that silently recounts the events of August 6, 1945. Established in 1905 and relocated to its current location in 1936, the building was constructed with reinforced ferro-concrete and armored shutters, a testament to its robust design. Located a mere 380 meters from the atomic bomb's hypocenter, the building withstood the explosion, though the top floor was gutted. The closed shutters on the first and second floors prevented complete destruction. In the aftermath, the bank served as a refuge for the injured and reopened just two days later to provide financial services. It continued operations until 1992. The City of Hiroshima designated it as an official hibaku (atomic bomb-affected) building in 1993 and later as an Important Cultural Property. Today, visitors can explore the building free of charge, witnessing firsthand the resilience of this structure and learning about its role in Hiroshima's recovery. The building hosts art and cultural events and displays exhibits related to the bombing.

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