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Historical places #3 in Nagasaki

Peace Park Nagasaki

4.3 · 9,066 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Peace Park Nagasaki, 9 Matsuyamamachi, Nagasaki, 852-8118, Japan
Interesting facts
1

The right hand of the Peace Statue points upward to represent the threat of nuclear weapons, while the extended left hand symbolizes eternal peace.

2

The park was built on the site of a former prison that was completely destroyed by the bomb's shockwave.

3

The Fountain of Peace was inspired by a young girl's diary entry describing her desperate search for water after the explosion.

4

The park contains a 'Peace Bell' donated by the former Soviet Union, which is rung during annual memorial ceremonies.

5

Several stone monuments throughout the park were donated by various world leaders and countries to demonstrate international solidarity.

6

The Urakami Cathedral wall preserved in the park is one of the few remnants of original architecture surviving from the day of the blast.

Overview

Peace Park Nagasaki serves as a memorial site located at the hypocenter of the atomic bombing on August 9, 1945. The park features the iconic 9.7-meter-tall Peace Statue, created by sculptor Seibo Kitamura, which represents the dual wishes for peace and the terror of nuclear weapons. Visitors can view the remnants of the original Urakami Cathedral wall, which was relocated to the park grounds to preserve its historical significance. The Fountain of Peace, shaped like the wings of a dove, honors those who died while suffering from extreme thirst following the blast. Various international delegations have donated statues and monuments to the park, transforming the area into a global symbol of reconciliation. The site is part of a larger complex that includes the Atomic Bomb Museum and the National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims. The grounds are meticulously landscaped with rows of trees and open spaces intended for quiet reflection. The park is situated on a hillside north of the Nagasaki city center, providing a panoramic perspective of the Urakami district.

Photo spot

Directly in front of the Peace Statue looking upward, or from the viewing deck overlooking the Fountain of Peace.

Insider tips

Combine your visit with the adjacent Atomic Bomb Museum for a more complete historical context.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the park is set on a sloped landscape with several staircases.

Visit the Fountain of Peace area during the warmer months to see it fully operational.

What to avoid

Avoid loud conversation or disruptive photography near the memorial monuments.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor; this is a place of mourning and remembrance.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning to avoid heat and mid-day crowds, or during the early spring for cherry blossom season.
Address
Peace Park Nagasaki, 9 Matsuyamamachi, Nagasaki, 852-8118, Japan
32.776, 129.864
Get directions
Details
Key MonumentsPeace Statue, Fountain of Peace, Urakami Cathedral remains
FacilitiesPublic rest areas, nearby visitor center, and memorial walkways

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning to avoid heat and mid-day crowds, or during the early spring for cherry blossom season..

Directly in front of the Peace Statue looking upward, or from the viewing deck overlooking the Fountain of Peace.

Close by you'll find Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Statue, Urakami Cathedral.