10.Atomic Bomb Dome・Itsukushima Shrine(Hiroshima)

Why was Hiroshima chosen as a target for the atomic bomb?

In order for the United States to accurately measure the power of the bomb, potential target cities were selected with an urban center measuring more than three miles in diameter. On 28th May, US bombing of potential target cities was halted to keep cities intact for the atomic bomb. On July25, the order was given that an atomic bomb would be dropped on Hiroshima, Kokura, Niigata, or Nagasaki. On August2, it was decided that Hiroshima would be the designated target. One reason for the decision was the US planners believed no American prisoners of war were being held in Hiroshima. The atomic bomb was to be dropped using visual targeting. On August6, the skies over Hiroshima were clear, the target was confirmed visually and the bomb was dropped.

The Peace Bell

This was installed with the aim of abolishing nuclear weapons and bringing about world peace. Cast by an expert bell-caster and a national treasure Masahiko Katori, a world map without national borders is inscribed on the surface of the bell to symbolize a single unified world. People are free to strike the bell, so please take the opportunity to do so with a prayer for world peace.

Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims

Officially named the 'Memorial Monument for Hiroshima, City of Peace', it is more commonly known as the Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims. The names of all those who lost their lives are inscribed inside the central stone vault regardless of nationalityies. Every year, new names are discovered and added to the list. The cenotaph was designed by Pritzker Prize winning architect Kenzo Tange.

Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall

A building to mourn the victims of the atomic bomb and pray for a lasting peace, the structure in the center indicates the exact time of the bomb detonation - 8:15am. Memoirs from survivors and portraits of the victims are displayed inside the memorial hall.

Itsukushima Shrine

World Heritage Site with a gigantic vermilion Torii gate stands over the sea and graceful vermilion-lacquered shrine pavilions float on the water. Miyajima, located behind the shrine, has served as an object of faith since ancient times as “the island where God resides” and it has many other sights, including a primeval forest and oddly-shaped rocks found in the holy mountain, Mount Misen. This island possesses a combination of spiritual power and natural beauty, and is also ranked as one of the Three Graceful Views of Japan. The best season to visit this island is fall, when it is beautifully decorated with fall colors. The season arriveds in which you can fully experience the beauty and mystery unique to Japan.