International Friendship Bell Oak Ridge
An 8,000-pound bronze bell in Oak Ridge, TN, symbolizing peace and reconciliation between the U.S. and Japan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Poignant commemoration ceremony
International Friendship Bell Oak Ridge
Best Time
Poignant commemoration ceremony
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 8,000-pound bronze bell in Oak Ridge, TN, symbolizing peace and reconciliation between the U.S. and Japan.
"This bell is wonderful! Its sound is deep and resonant, a true symbol of peace and cooperation."
🔔 Ring the Bell!
Don't hesitate to swing the log and make the bell sound; its deep, resonant tone is truly amazing.
🗓️ Commemorative Dates
Consider visiting on August 6th for a special sunrise service and bell ringing event.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The International Friendship Bell
A.K. Bissell Park
An 8,000-pound bronze bell symbolizing peace and reconciliation between the U.S. and Japan. Ring it for a resonant sound!
Commemorative Ringing
A.K. Bissell Park
Experience the profound act of ringing the bell, especially during significant dates like August 6th for remembrance.
A.K. Bissell Park Serenity
A.K. Bissell Park
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park, with its walking routes and a creek, offering a calm space for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Peace
Understanding the Bell's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔔 Ring the Bell!
Don't hesitate to swing the log and make the bell sound; its deep, resonant tone is truly amazing.
🗓️ Commemorative Dates
Consider visiting on August 6th for a special sunrise service and bell ringing event. 
🚶♀️ Explore the Park
The park offers a lovely walking route along a beautiful creek, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
📜 Understand the History
Learn about the bell's significance as a symbol of peace and post-WWII U.S.-Japan cooperation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔔 Ring the Bell!
Don't hesitate to swing the log and make the bell sound; its deep, resonant tone is truly amazing.
🗓️ Commemorative Dates
Consider visiting on August 6th for a special sunrise service and bell ringing event.
🚶♀️ Explore the Park
The park offers a lovely walking route along a beautiful creek, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
📜 Understand the History
Learn about the bell's significance as a symbol of peace and post-WWII U.S.-Japan cooperation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the International Friendship Bell to be a beautiful and meaningful monument, appreciating its symbolism of peace and U.S.-Japan cooperation. Many enjoy the resonant sound of the bell and the tranquil atmosphere of A.K. Bissell Park. Some note the historical context related to WWII and Oak Ridge's role, finding it a quiet place for reflection.
"The bell marks a history when the US & Japan decided to forget historical enmity and move ahead on the path of peace and progress! It's a nice calm place with a long walking route and a beautiful creek passing through the middle of the park."
Hiren Patel
"This is my favorite thing in Oak Ridge! I love the idea of the people of Oak Ridge and Japan coming together to build the bell, and the bell itself is beautiful and sounds so amazing. Don't be afraid to really swing the log and make it sound! A lovely, head-clearing sound."
Sara Beth Wade
"Beautiful monument gifted to the city of Oak Ridge and the United States from Japan. Impressed that they would gift a friendship and peace bell to America after World War II and the atomic bomb. There's a hanging stick that you can use to hit the bell. It's a cool structure that was built to hang the bell as well. On the bell are the dates of major attacks by Japan against the United States during world war II like Pearl Harbor, as well as the dates and cities of the two cities that were destroyed by the atomic bomb. Quiet place to visit."
Brad Hawks
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The International Friendship Bell is located in A.K. Bissell Park in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's a central landmark within the city, making it straightforward to find.
Public transportation options in Oak Ridge might be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the park and the bell.
A.K. Bissell Park is centrally located. If you're coming from nearby cities like Knoxville, take I-40 West and then follow signs for Oak Ridge. The park is well-marked once you enter the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the International Friendship Bell or A.K. Bissell Park. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
A.K. Bissell Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. The bell can be rung at any time during park hours, though specific ceremonies might have set times.
No booking is required to ring the bell. Visitors can ring it freely during park hours, though it's a popular spot, so you might have to wait briefly if others are present.
Yes, the bell is often rung for commemorative events, most notably on August 6th to mark the anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There is a hanging log or mallet provided that you can use to strike the bell. Don't be afraid to give it a good swing to hear its deep, resonant sound!
The bell is adorned with images symbolizing peace and reconciliation between Japan and the United States, reflecting post-WWII cooperation.
Absolutely! The park features a long walking route along a beautiful creek, making it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll.
Yes, photography is encouraged! The bell and its surroundings in A.K. Bissell Park make for beautiful and meaningful photo opportunities.
The International Friendship Bell is a substantial 8,000 pounds of bronze, standing nearly seven feet tall and five feet wide.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photos. The fall season also offers stunning foliage as a backdrop.
Try capturing the bell from different heights and distances. Photos showing people interacting with the bell, like ringing it, can be very impactful.
Any modern smartphone or camera will capture great images. The key is to focus on the bell's details and the serene park setting.
Yes, the bell has intricate details and inscriptions that tell its story. Getting close-up shots can highlight these historical elements.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📜 History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Symbolism of the Bell
The bell was designed in Oak Ridge and cast in Kyoto, Japan, by a renowned bell-maker, symbolizing the collaborative spirit behind its existence. Weighing approximately 8,000 pounds, the bell stands as a testament to the complex relationship between the United States and Japan, particularly in the context of World War II and Oak Ridge's role in the Manhattan Project.
+2 The inscriptions on the bell often include dates of significant historical events, serving as a reminder of past conflicts and a commitment to a peaceful future. Visiting the bell offers a moment for reflection on history, peace, and international relations. It's a tangible representation of how communities can come together to promote harmony. The bell's deep, resonant sound, when rung, is often described as powerful and moving, echoing its message of peace.
Experiencing A.K. Bissell Park
The park features a pleasant walking route that meanders alongside a beautiful creek, offering a refreshing natural setting.
In the fall, A.K. Bissell Park is said to be particularly spectacular, with the changing foliage adding a vibrant backdrop to the bell and the park's landscape.
Whether you're visiting for the historical significance of the bell or seeking a peaceful retreat, the park offers a welcoming and calming atmosphere for all.
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