This guide is for travelers visiting the A-Bomb Dome and Peace Park. It answers: “How to visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial?”
Quick Facts
- Best for: History seekers, peace advocates
- Time needed: 2-3 hours
- Access: Streetcar from Hiroshima Station (15 min)
- Admission: Park free, Museum ¥200
Overview
The Peace Memorial Park marks the site of the first atomic bomb attack on August 6, 1945. The park and museum serve as memorials to the victims and a call for world peace and nuclear abolition.
What to See
A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome)
The only structure left standing near the blast hypocenter. UNESCO World Heritage site. Powerful symbol of nuclear destruction.
Peace Memorial Museum
Exhibits on the bombing, its victims, and aftermath. Personal belongings, photos, and stories. Emotionally intense but essential.
Cenotaph and Flame of Peace
Memorial cenotaph holds names of all victims. Flame will burn until all nuclear weapons are eliminated.
Tips
- Audio guide: Available at museum entrance. Highly recommended.
- August 6: Annual Peace Memorial Ceremony. Very crowded but moving.
Getting There
From Hiroshima Airport (HIJ)
Recommended (Mid-range): Take the Airport Limousine Bus from the arrival lobby to Hiroshima Station (Shinkansen Exit) or the Hiroshima Bus Center. The journey takes approximately 45–55 minutes. As there is no direct train connection to the airport, the bus is the standard and most convenient option for travelers. Budget: A combination of a local bus to Shiraichi Station followed by the JR Sanyo Line to Hiroshima Station is cheaper but takes approximately 60–70 minutes and requires a transfer.
From Major Cities (via Shinkansen)
Recommended (Premium): Most visitors arrive via the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen. From Shin-Osaka Station, the Sakura or Nozomi trains reach Hiroshima Station in approximately 80–90 minutes. From Tokyo Station, the Nozomi train takes approximately 4 hours. Note that Japan Rail Pass holders generally use Hikari or Sakura trains, though Nozomi access is available with a surcharge.
Local Access
From Hiroshima Station, the Peace Memorial Park is located in the city center and is best accessed by streetcar or loop bus.
- Streetcar (Recommended): Take the Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) Line 2 🔴 or Line 6 (Yellow) from the streetcar stop in front of Hiroshima Station to “Genbaku Dome-mae” (Atomic Bomb Dome). The ride takes approximately 15–20 minutes.
- Sightseeing Bus: The JR “Meipuru-pu” loop bus (Orange or Green routes) departs from the station and stops at the Atomic Bomb Dome in approximately 15–20 minutes. This is free for JR Pass holders.
The park is approximately a 1-minute walk from the Genbaku Dome-mae stop. IC cards such as ICOCA, Suica, and PASMO are accepted on all streetcars and buses within the city.
Sources
- Official site: Peace Memorial Museum
Last updated: 2026-02-03