Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument: A Site of Remembrance
A somber memorial marking the epicenter of the Nagasaki atomic bomb, urging reflection and a commitment to global peace.
The Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument in Nagasaki stands as a stark reminder of the atomic bombing that devastated the city on August 9, 1945. The monument marks the precise location where the bomb detonated, 500 meters above the ground. The surrounding area, now known as Hypocenter Park, was once a barren field of rubble, but has since been transformed into a place of reflection and remembrance. The park features a simple, black monolith that marks the hypocenter. Nearby, visitors can see bomb-blasted relics, including a section of the wall of the Urakami Cathedral, which was the grandest church in East Asia at the time. There is also an area where visitors can view a layer of soil containing broken roof tiles, bricks, and pieces of glass from the explosion. Established in 1955, the Hypocenter Park is part of a larger complex that includes the Nagasaki Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum. Together, these sites serve as a memorial to the victims of the bombing and a call for peace. The park is particularly striking in spring when the cherry blossom trees are in bloom.
Local tips
- Combine your visit with the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park to gain a comprehensive understanding of the events and their aftermath.
- Visit on August 9 to witness the Peace Memorial Ceremony, where the Mayor of Nagasaki delivers a Peace Declaration to the world.
- Take a moment to reflect and pray for the souls of the victims at the Hypocenter Cenotaph.
A brief summary to Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument
- 6 Matsuyamamachi, Nagasaki, Matsuyamamachi, Nagasaki, 852-8118, JP
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Nagasaki Station, take tram #1 or #3 towards Akasako and get off at the 'Peace Park (Heiwa Koen)' stop. The park is a five-minute walk from the tram stop. The tram ride takes approximately 11 minutes. The flat fare for a single tram ride is ¥150. A 1-day pass for unlimited tram travel is available for ¥600.
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Bus
From Nagasaki Airport, take the bus bound for Nagasaki Station and get off at the Peace Park (Matsuya-machi) bus stop. It's a five-minute walk from the bus stop to the Hypocenter Park. The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes and costs ¥1200. Alternatively, from Nagasaki Station, several bus routes will take you near the park. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Nagasaki. A taxi from Nagasaki Station to the Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument takes approximately 10 minutes, costing between ¥1800 and ¥2300. From the Atomic Bomb Museum, a taxi ride is about 4 minutes and costs ¥2000-¥2400.
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Walking
From Nagasaki Station, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to the Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument. Follow the main road north, and you will see signs directing you to the Peace Park and Hypocenter Park.
