Are you looking for a peaceful yet thought-provoking destination in Japan? The Peace Park in Nagasaki is a must-visit, blending history, culture, and a powerful message of hope.
It is located near the hypocenter of the atomic bombing on August 9, 1945. The Peace Park is a tribute to the victims
Why Visit Nagasaki Peace Park?
The Peace Park in Nagasaki is one of the most famous tourist spots. People who visit Nagasaki usually visit this park.
The Peace Park was established in 1955 and is very convenient to visit from Nagasaki Station. It only takes 13 minutes to get to the station by Tramway from the Nagasaki station.
The main three purposes for creating the park are below:
- Honoring the Victims: The park pays homage to the 70,000+ lives lost in the bombing and those who suffered its aftermath.
- Promoting Peace: A symbol of a commitment to a nuclear-free world and harmony among nations.
- Educating Visitors: Through its monuments and exhibitions, the park informs people about the horrors of war and the importance of peace.
Peace Park is also famous among school, college, and university tours. You will see many picnic groups of students from schools, colleges, and universities here.
Key Highlights of Peace Park:
The main attraction of the Peace Park in Nagasaki is a giant man statue. It is called the “Nagasaki Peace Statue.”
At the heart of the park stands the Nagasaki Peace Statue. Its height is a 10-meter-tall masterpiece created by Nagasaki artist Seibou Kitamura.
The statue conveys deep meaning to the visitors.
- Right hand: Pointing to the sky to signify the threat of nuclear weapons.
- Left hand: Extended Peace and friendship.
- Face: Lightly closed in prayer for the souls of the victims.
The iconic Peace Statue draws thousands of visitors every day and conveys a message of hope and a peaceful world.
Fountain of Peace:
If you go from Nagasaki Station by electric Tramway or bus, you will see a huge, lovely fountain as soon as you climb up the stairs. It is the Fountain of Peace.
The fountain was created to pay tribute to victims who died searching for water. Its plaque features the heartfelt words of a nine-year-old survivor, serving as a poignant reminder of the tragedy.
If we translate it into English, it says, ” I was so thirsty, and there was something oily floating over the water. I desperately wanted water, so I ended up drinking it with the oil still floating in it.”
Nagasaki Peace Ceremony:
The Nagasaki Peace Ceremony is the main ceremony of the park. The ceremony is held each year on August 9 in the park.
The events include:
- A moment of silence at 11:02 AM, marking the bomb’s detonation.
- A Declaration of Peace by the Mayor of Nagasaki.
- Survivors’ testimonies and the release of doves as symbols of hope.
Undoubtedly, the Peace Ceremony is a globally significant event. It attracts visitors, activists, and diplomats, making it a powerful experience for attendees.
Don’t Miss Nagasaki Peace Park:
Do you know why you shouldn’t miss visiting Peace Park in Nagasaki?
Visiting Peace Park is not just a journey through history but a chance to reflect on peace. From the inspiring Nagasaki Peace Statue to the moving Nagasaki Peace Ceremony, every park element tells a story of peace and harmony to live.
Whether you are traveling to learn or experience the cultural richness of Nagasaki, the Peace Park in Nagasaki is a place you may never forget.
So, do not miss it; visit and be a part of this global symbol of hope and peace.
Other Statues:
The Peace Park in Nagasaki has several meaningful statues. Some of them I am listing below:
- Statue of Friendship of Nations: A gift from the German Democratic Republic symbolizing friendship.
- The Joy of Life: Donated by Czechoslovakia to support Nagasaki’s “World Peace Symbol Zone.”
- Peace: A gift from the Soviet Union, representing hope for a nuclear-free world.
- Maiden Statue: Symbol of unity, a gift from China.
- Mantle of Peace: A visual plea for global harmony.
- A Call: Donated by Bulgaria, representing a call for peace.
- Peace Monument: A gift from Brazil celebrating peace and life.
- Statue to Protect Future Generations: Donated by the Netherlands, emphasizing the protection of future generations.
- A Hymn to Life: A gift from Italy celebrating the resilience and beauty of life.
Besides, there are so many statues that I cannot explain all of them here in my small post. However, while you are there, take your time to see them. All these statues mean only one message and that is “Peace and Harmony.”
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Admission: Free
How to Access Nagasaki Peace Park?
The park is easily accessible by Tram. Take the blue Nagasaki Denki tram from Nagasaki Station and get off at the Peace Park stop.
After getting off the Tram, turn right and cross the Tramway, go straight, and cross the main road. While waiting for the traffic signal, look far, and you will see the stairs of the Peace Park.
Nagasaki Cruise Terminal to Peace Park:
If you’re arriving by cruise, getting to the Peace Park in Nagasaki is easy and convenient. From the Nagasaki Cruise Terminal, you can take a short taxi ride or use the local tram system:
- By Taxi: A 10-minute ride will take you directly to the park.
- By Tram: Walk to the nearest tram station from the terminal, board the blue Nagasaki Denki tram, and alight at the Peace Park stop.
Both options are quick and allow you to enjoy the scenic views of Nagasaki on your way to the park.
Address:
Nagasaki Peace Park
9 Matsuyamamachi, Nagasaki, 852-8118
Official Website:
https://www.city.nagasaki.lg.jp
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