The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, beside the Peace Park, tells the story of the atomic bombing of the city on 9 August 1945 and its aftermath. Through harrowing photographs, scorched and melted artefacts — a stopped clock frozen at 11:02, twisted metal, everyday objects deformed by the heat — as well as survivor (hibakusha) testimony, models and film, it conveys both the scale of the destruction and the intensely human tragedy of the day. The exhibits trace the history leading to the bombing, the devastation and radiation sickness that followed, and the long recovery, ending with a section on nuclear weapons today and a heartfelt appeal for their abolition and for lasting peace. Sobering and profoundly moving, the museum is essential to understanding Nagasaki, and best visited together with the Peace Park and hypocentre nearby.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Central Nagasaki |
| Hours | ~8:30–17:30 (later in summer) |
| Admission | Paid (low) |
| Time needed | 1–1.5 hours |
| Best time | Year-round |
What to See
- A stopped clock frozen at 11:02, the moment of the blast.
- Scorched and melted artefacts and photographs.
- Survivor (hibakusha) testimony and film.
- A closing appeal for nuclear abolition and peace.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Peace Park beside it.
- Pair with Urakami Cathedral nearby.
- Read our Nagasaki overview .
Getting There
- By tram: to Hamaguchi-machi stop, then a short walk.
- On foot: beside the Peace Park and hypocentre.
Tips
Allow enough time and emotional space, as the exhibits are harrowing and deeply affecting, and consider it heavy for very young children. Visit it together with the Peace Park and Hypocenter Park just outside to grasp the full story, take advantage of the English captions and audio guide, and leave time to reflect afterwards.
