Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims

The National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims in Hiroshima is a relatively new facility completed in 2002. It was established to pass down the experiences of the atomic bombing to future generations, deepen understanding of the tragedy of the atomic bomb, and pray for everlasting peace. Searches of the collection materials are available in five languages, and some testimony videos support more than 20 languages.
The building has one above-ground floor and two basement levels. In the center of the above-ground area is a monument indicating 8:15, the time the atomic bomb was dropped. The descending ramp leading underground symbolizes going back in time to immediately after the bombing. In the "Testimonies Reading Room," visitors can freely view more than 140,000 accounts of atomic-bomb experiences and memorial writings, as well as photos and videos. In the basement level 2 "Peace Memorial Space for Repose of Souls," a 360-degree panoramic representation shows the cityscape of Hiroshima as seen from around the former Shima Hospital near the hypocenter. In the "Portrait Corner," the names and portraits of victims are displayed one after another on a large monitor. Access to the National Peace Memorial Hall is via Hiroshima Bus: get off at "Heiwa Kinen Kōen" (Peace Memorial Park), or via streetcar: get off at "Genbaku Dome-mae" (Atomic Bomb Dome).