Guide
The Motokawa Elementary School Peace Memorial Museum is a significant historical site located in the heart of Hiroshima City. The school building, originally constructed in 1928, stands just 410 meters from the hypocenter of the atomic blast. Parts of this reinforced concrete structure survived the explosion, serving as a direct, physical witness to the devastation. The building itself is a precious historical resource, and through its exhibits of artifacts and models, it fulfills the vital role of passing the memory of war to future generations.
This building was the first three-story public elementary school in Hiroshima to feature a reinforced concrete structure. It boasts architectural features of the era, such as an L-shaped layout and dust chutes used to drop items from the second and third floors. Although the building suffered immense damage during the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, it was later repaired and reopened as a peace memorial museum in 1988. The museum preserves items collected by former teachers, including documents related to the inscriptions on the Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome), providing a deep connection to the city's history.
The most striking feature is the architecture of the school building itself, which preserves the damage sustained during the bombing. Visitors can observe the structural scars and the design of the era. Additionally, the basement level houses a scale model of Hiroshima as it appeared before and during the bombing (transferred from the main Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum), allowing for a three-dimensional understanding of the city's layout. The museum also offers a multi-faceted learning experience through photographs, historical artifacts, and panels dedicated to the message of global peace.
While the museum offers profound historical value year-round, visiting around the time of peace-related events or the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony can provide even deeper context. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is an excellent spot to visit between sightseeing activities or outside of school hours. Visiting in the afternoon is often recommended for those who wish to reflect quietly on history in a calm environment.
The experience focuses on observing historical evidence and learning through visual and physical artifacts. By examining the items collected by former teachers and the scale models of the city, visitors can grasp the scale of destruction and the reality of daily life in a way that text alone cannot convey. The museum serves as a crucial resource for contemplating the value of peace. Please note that groups wishing to visit for educational purposes should submit a prior application via the specified official format.
The museum is conveniently located in central Hiroshima, near the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. It is easily accessible via the Hiroshima Electric Railway (streetcar). Visiting this site alongside other nearby monuments and museums will provide a comprehensive understanding of the history and culture of the region.
As this is a solemn historical site, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor. Because the facility uses an actual school building, there are stairs and uneven surfaces; comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Admission is free, but please follow all facility rules and maintain silence during your visit. Please ensure you enter through the designated North Gate of the school grounds.