# data[].attributes.body
On August 6, 1945, the world witnessed the deadliest disaster humanity could conjure when the United States dropped the atomic bomb over Hiroshima. Tens of thousands of people were instantly killed by the blast, and many more would die of injuries it brought upon.

# data[].attributes.body
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Genbaku Dome, was originally designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel and it finished construction in April 1915. It was initially named the Hiroshima Prefectural Commercial Exhibition Hall, and it later became the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. This building was primarily used for arts and educational exhibitions. The Genbaku Dome was the only building that remained standing near the hypocenter of the atomic bomb that was dropped over Hiroshima.

# data[].attributes.body
Photo by Giovanni Boccardi, UNESCO

# data[].attributes.body
Through the efforts of many people, including the Hiroshima residents, the site has been preserved in the same state as the aftermath of the bombing. In 1996, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

# data[].attributes.body
Photo by Giovanni Boccardi, copyrights by UNESCO

# data[].attributes.body
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is a stark reminder of the human capacity towards destruction— a human nature that is vividly recorded throughout the history of humanity. Since the first atomic bomb was dropped on August 6, 1945, this weapon has been tuned to a greater effect that makes us wonder how much worse we would see if another bomb was dropped in this age. It also reminds us that the fate if the world itself may lie at the hands of a very few people that have access to nuclear weapons. On the other hand, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial represents the tenacity and perseverance of the people— the hope that we will always get back on our feet in every trial that comes our way. A visit to this site allows us to see such devastation as it happened; and sympathize with the countless innocent lives that were lost in this event.

The memorial is not just a place or just architectural for viewing, but it represents and a reminder that people can destroy significant place, thus give hints that people can be dangerous when it takes a choice to build or destroy, but given the peace memorial that it still stands with all its events that made it destroy but still has value and also reminds that peace will be possible.

# data[].attributes.body
Jan Letzel in kimono

# data[].attributes.body
Alternatively, one can visit this site by virtual means. Xplore Hiroshima is an app developed by TimeLooper Inc., which offers a virtual reality experience for those that could not physically visit the Hiroshima Peace Park. During this virtual tour, local guides Mary and Haruki will introduce the Hiroshima Peace Park, formerly Nakajima District, one of Hiroshima's busiest downtown centers and the target of the atomic bombing. You will see a video footage from the day, toggle between maps of past and present Hiroshima, interact with 3D models of Atomic bomb, Little Boy, and the Atomic Bomb Dome. It will also allow users to hear testimonies of the victims accompanied by art they created to convey their experiences. The app is currently available for iOS devices through the App Store.

# data[].attributes.body
Screenshot of the overlay of the Hiroshima Peace Park placed on a surface captured by phone camera

# data[].attributes.body
The significance of the remaining structure of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial lies not solely in its architectural qualities, but primarily in its symbolic representation. This silent monument stands as the skeletal framework of what once was the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotional Hall, built in 1914. It serves as a poignant reminder of humanity's capacity to create immense destructive force, while also embodying a beacon of hope for lasting global peace.

# data[].attributes.body
Today Hiroshima is a lively and growing city, declared an ‘International City of Peace and Culture’ expressing the idea of global peace through Hiroshima’s experience of pain and the difficult memories of wars that are handed down to coming generations.

# data[].attributes.body
The Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall was the official name of the building that stood on the site of the A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome in Japanese) prior to the bombing. This five storey building with a 25m-high dome is located on the riverbank of the Motoyasu River. After the official opening, it functioned as an attractive venue, not only for industry-related, but also arts and educational exhibitions that effectively contributed to provincial socio-cultural development. Hiroshima also became a center of education and cultural institutions.

# data[].attributes.body
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is open to visitations from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM through March to July; 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM through August; 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM through September to November, and; 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM through December to January.

# data[].attributes.body
As I stand before the solemn structure of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Genbaku Dome, I am overwhelmed by a profound sense of reverence and reflection. This building, frozen in time amidst the bustling modern city, serves not only as a poignant reminder of the horrors of war but also as a symbol of resilience and the enduring human spirit.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial stands as a witness to the catastrophic events of August 6, 1945, when the world witnessed the devastating power of nuclear warfare. It was one of the few buildings to survive the atomic bomb blast that razed the city to the ground, leaving behind unimaginable destruction and loss of life. Yet, amidst the rubble and ashes, this skeletal structure remained, serving as a silent testament to the suffering endured by the people of Hiroshima.

As I gaze upon the dome, its haunting silhouette against the sky, I cannot help but contemplate the folly of war and the urgent need for peace. The memorial's significance extends far beyond its physical presence; it is a powerful reminder of the consequences of violence and the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness.

Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial is a humbling experience that prompts introspection and empathy. It serves as a call to action, urging us to strive for a world free from the threat of nuclear weapons and conflict. It challenges us to confront the darkest aspects of human nature while also inspiring hope for a brighter future built upon understanding and cooperation.

In the midst of tragedy, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in our darkest hours, we have the capacity to overcome adversity and build a better world. It is a solemn vow never to forget the past and to work tirelessly towards a future where peace prevails, and the horrors of Hiroshima are never repeated.