When we think of Hiroshima, we think of the atomic bomb that killed over 70,000 people in 1945. Yet the city itself doesn’t try to hide its tragedy from tourists; though 90% of Hiroshima was wiped out in the blast, the loss of life and land is honoured with the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
A city ravaged by war is now a city of peace. Posters proclaiming ‘No Nukes!’ can be seen dotted here and there, and magnets and stickers with the same slogan are available to purchase. Walking through the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a tranquil and humbling experience. In a way, the city represents many of the Japanese people we met – calm, friendly, neat and inoffensive. The ruin of the Hiroshima Industrial Hall (or the A-bomb Dome) is a highlight, bringing to life the extent of the damage most of the city would have experienced.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, however, is much more confronting. The museum provides a factual overview of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, but some of the exhibits are a shock. Several statues of people (including children) have skin dripping off their bodies from heat and radiation. In cabinets, too, are victims’ toenails, hair and skin – illuminating the severity of the event and the aftermath effects of radiation. The museum was crowded, with school children chasing each other, trying to touch everything. The audio guide is worth the small hire fee, though for the museum to be fully immersive, a visit outside school hours is recommended.
While you’re in the city, visit Hiroshima Castle. Though the castle was destroyed in the bombing of 1945, it was rebuilt in 1958 and serves as a museum of Hiroshima’s history before the bombing. Inside, you’ll find authentic samurai armour and learn the phases of the castle’s rulers and architecture.Climbing to the top allows for a 360-degree view of the surrounding land, too.
Hiroshima is easily accessible by shinkansen from most major Japanese cities, and there is no extra cost if you pre-purchase a rail pass before you arrive in the country.
Enjoy the adventure.
Wayward Wonders 