Children's Peace Monument
A poignant monument dedicated to child victims of the atomic bombing, inspired by Sadako Sasaki's story of hope and peace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Children's Peace Monument
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A poignant monument dedicated to child victims of the atomic bombing, inspired by Sadako Sasaki's story of hope and peace.
"A powerful and moving tribute, a must-visit for its message of hope and remembrance."
🕊️ Bring Your Own Cranes
Leave your own origami cranes as a symbol of peace and remembrance. Many visitors do this!
🔔 Ring the Bell
Ring the bell at the monument for a moment of peace and respect.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Statue of Sadako Sasaki
Top of the monument
A bronze statue of a girl holding a golden crane, symbolizing hope and peace for all children.
Thousands of Paper Cranes
Glass cases around the base
Colorful origami cranes sent from around the world, a testament to global peace efforts.
Peace Flame
Near the monument
A flame that has burned continuously since 1964, symbolizing the hope for a world without nuclear weapons.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🕊️ Bring Your Own Cranes
Leave your own origami cranes as a symbol of peace and remembrance. Many visitors do this!
🔔 Ring the Bell
Ring the bell at the monument for a moment of peace and respect.
🚶♀️ Walk the Park
The monument is part of the larger Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, explore other sites too.
🙏 Reflect and Remember
Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect on the powerful story behind the monument.
Tips
from all over the internet
🕊️ Bring Your Own Cranes
Leave your own origami cranes as a symbol of peace and remembrance. Many visitors do this!
🔔 Ring the Bell
Ring the bell at the monument for a moment of peace and respect.
🚶♀️ Walk the Park
The monument is part of the larger Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, explore other sites too.
🙏 Reflect and Remember
Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect on the powerful story behind the monument.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Children's Peace Monument to be a deeply moving and powerful tribute to the child victims of the atomic bombing. The story of Sadako Sasaki and the thousands of paper cranes left by visitors create a poignant atmosphere of hope and remembrance. It's considered an essential and respectful stop for anyone visiting Hiroshima.
"It is located Inside Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, not far from the museum and Atomic Bomb Dome. It is immediately after the peace flame in the way to Dime. It was unveiled on Children’s Day in Japan in 1958 on fifth May. And dedicated to All the children who died as a result of the atomic bombing.
Story of Sadako Sasaki
This monument is inspired by Sadako Sasaki, a girl who was 2 years old at the time of the Hiroshima bombing (6 August 1945).Ten years later, she developed leukemia due to radiation exposure.
While in hospital, Sadako began folding paper cranes inspired by a Japanese belief that folding 1,000 cranes could make a wish come true.
Sadako managed to fold over a thousand cranes before her death in 1955 at the age of 12.
Her classmates and friends collected donations nationwide and internationally to build this monument in her memory and for all child victims.
The statue is about 9 meters (30 feet) high.
At the top stands a bronze statue of a girl (Sadako) holding a golden origami crane above her head, symbolizing hope and peace.
On the sides are figures of a boy and a girl representing a bright future and innocence. Around the base are glass cases filled with thousands of colorful paper cranes sent from children and peace groups all over the world every year.
There is an inscription written at the base of the monument in Japanese, the meaning of which is ;
‘This is our cry. This is our prayer.
For building peace in the world.’"
BABU O VARGHESE
"Well thought out homage to the children who were affected by the atomic bombing. The monument is a short walk away from the river and the museum. It’s a great place to pass by and visit this monument, especially during the evening. Worth visiting during your trip!"
kat
"Thoughtful homage to all the children who sadly lost their lives when the A Bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. Ring the bell for a sense of peace and respect. Place your paper artwork or origami bird in one of the boxes that will be left open on the day."
Merzesh Magra
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Children's Peace Monument is located within the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. You can easily reach it by taking a tram to the 'Genbaku Dome-mae' or 'Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park' stop. It's a short walk from the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum.
Yes, it's very well-signposted within the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. It's situated between the Peace Flame and the Atomic Bomb Dome, making it a central point of interest.
While there are parking facilities near the Peace Memorial Park, it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential congestion and the park's pedestrian-friendly nature.
Walking is the best way to explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and its surrounding attractions, including the monument, museum, and dome.
The closest major transport hub is Hiroshima Station, from which you can take a tram or bus to reach the Peace Memorial Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Children's Peace Monument is an outdoor memorial and is free to visit. You can access it at any time as part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
The monument is accessible 24/7 as it is located in an open park. However, the surrounding park and related museums have specific operating hours.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park itself is free to enter. While the Children's Peace Monument is within the park, there is no admission fee for it or the park grounds.
Yes, visitors often leave paper cranes, flowers, or small tokens of remembrance. There are designated areas for placing these items.
As a place of remembrance, visitors are expected to be respectful. Loud noises or disruptive behavior are discouraged.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Children's Peace Monument. However, it's important to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more peaceful and impactful photographs. The evening can also be atmospheric with park lighting.
The statue of Sadako Sasaki holding the crane, the thousands of colorful paper cranes in the display cases, and the Peace Flame are popular subjects for photography.
Be mindful of other visitors who are there for reflection. Avoid intrusive photography and maintain a respectful demeanor.
Photography rules can vary inside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Check for signage or ask staff for guidance on where photos are permitted.
🎫 🕊️ Onsite Experience
While the monument itself can be viewed relatively quickly, many visitors spend 30-60 minutes to fully absorb the atmosphere, read the inscriptions, and reflect. If visiting the museum, allow more time.
It's dedicated to the child victims of the atomic bombing, inspired by Sadako Sasaki, who folded paper cranes in hope of recovery from leukemia. Her story and the collective effort to build the monument are deeply moving.
Visitors can participate by folding and leaving their own paper cranes, a symbolic act of contributing to the message of peace. You can also ring the bell.
The atmosphere is generally somber, reflective, and peaceful. It's a place for quiet contemplation and remembrance.
The monument is located in an open park area, and the paths are generally flat and accessible. However, specific accessibility details for the surrounding park should be confirmed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum as well, but be prepared for potentially graphic content. It might be beneficial to prepare children beforehand by explaining the historical context in simple terms. The park itself is a safe and accessible environment for families. The Peace Flame and the Atomic Bomb Dome are also key landmarks within the park that can be discussed with children.
🕊️ Peace and History Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome for a comprehensive understanding of the city's history and its ongoing commitment to peace. Engaging with the exhibits and the monument's narrative provides a deeply personal connection to the events of 1945 and the enduring quest for global harmony.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Sadako Sasaki and the Paper Cranes
This collective effort led to the unveiling of the monument on Children's Day in 1958. The statue depicts a young girl, Sadako, holding a golden crane aloft, a powerful symbol of hope and peace. Surrounding the base of the monument are glass cases filled with thousands upon thousands of colorful paper cranes. These are not just from Sadako's time but are continuously sent from children and peace organizations worldwide, a testament to the enduring global desire for peace and a world free from nuclear weapons. Visitors are encouraged to add their own cranes, continuing this tradition of hope.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Adjacent to the monument and the dome is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts, personal belongings, and detailed accounts of the bombing and its aftermath. The museum provides a deeply moving and educational experience, offering insights into the human cost of nuclear warfare. The park also features the Peace Flame, which has been burning continuously since 1964 and will only be extinguished when all nuclear weapons on Earth are abolished. Walking through the park, especially during quieter times, allows for a profound sense of peace and a deep understanding of Hiroshima's message to the world.
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