Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, Hiroshima

The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims stands as a poignant testament to the tragedy that befell Hiroshima, Japan, on August 6, 1945. This solemn memorial, located near the epicenter of the atomic blast, is dedicated to remembering those who lost their lives in the bombing and to promoting peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons worldwide.

The Hall was established by the Japanese government and was opened to the public on August 1, 2002. Its purpose is not only to mourn the victims but also to collect and provide information about the victims and the atomic bombing, to pass down the experiences and the desire for peace to future generations, and to contribute to the abolition of nuclear weapons and the realization of lasting world peace.

The architectural design of the Hall is deeply symbolic. Visitors descend a flight of stairs to a Hall of Remembrance, which features a 360-degree panorama recreated from 140,000 tiles—the number representing the estimated number of victims by the end of 1945. The panorama reflects the view of Hiroshima after the bombing. Central to the Hall's mission is a registry that contains the names and photographs of the victims, a sobering reminder of the human cost of nuclear warfare.

The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims is a place for reflection and education. Through its exhibits, the Hall provides historical context about the bombing and its aftermath. It also offers a variety of programs and activities designed to foster peace and reconciliation.