This dome-shaped museum on a small hill near the hypocenter preserves and displays approximately 1,500 artifacts and personal belongings. Its easy-to-follow exhibits tell a story of the devastation caused by the atomic bomb, the history of nuclear weapons, and the hope for peace.
The permanent exhibition begins with the theme “August 9, 1945,” introducing Nagasaki before the atomic bomb exploded. A clock stopped at 11:02 a.m. marks the moment of the explosion. The “Damage Caused by the Atomic Bomb” section shows the city of Nagasaki reduced to a burned-out wasteland immediately afterward, along with large artifacts damaged in the bombing, including a water tank and fire lookout tower. Melted glass, rosaries, and other objects visibly demonstrate the severity of the damage caused by the intense heat and fires.
The “Toward a World Free of Nuclear Weapons” section presents a timeline of the history of war and explains the events that led to the atomic bombing. It also examines the current state of the latest nuclear weapons still being produced and calls for their abolition. In the video room, visitors can learn about the bombing through video footage. There is also a quiz section about the atomic bomb, giving both children and adults an opportunity to learn more about it.
Highlights
-
The museum includes a library with approximately 25,000 books about the atomic bomb and peace.
-
Peace Cafe serves authentic curry, drinks, and Nagasaki specialties such as castella cake.
-
The museum shop sells books and CDs related to peace, as well as postcards and other items.
-
Located on the first basement level of the adjoining Nagasaki City Peace Hall, the Nagasaki City Museum of History and Folklore displays historical and folk materials from Nagasaki.
-
The Noguchi Yataro Art Museum is located on the first floor and displays approximately 40 works by Noguchi Yataro.
