Inside Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Children’s Peace Monument honours Sadako Sasaki and the children who died because of the atomic bombing. A bronze figure of Sadako holds a golden crane above her head, with glass cases of colourful paper cranes gathered around the monument. The cranes come from children and peace groups around the world. Read the inscription at the base, then take a moment to reflect on the memorial’s message of peace. It is near the Peace Flame, the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome.
A memorial shaped by Sadako Sasaki’s story
The Children’s Peace Monument commemorates children who died as a result of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Its story is closely connected to Sadako Sasaki, who was two years old when the bomb fell. She developed leukemia about ten years later, after exposure to radiation, and died at the age of 12.
While in hospital, Sadako folded paper cranes. The story of her effort became a symbol of hope and peace, and students raised money to build a memorial in her memory and for all child victims. The monument was unveiled on 5 May 1958, which is Children’s Day in Japan.
The statue and paper cranes
The monument is about nine metres high. At the top, a bronze statue of a girl holds a golden crane above her head. Figures of a boy and a girl stand at the sides, and glass cases around the base hold thousands of colourful paper cranes sent from children and peace groups around the world.
The cranes give the memorial a personal connection to people far beyond Hiroshima. Their presence recalls Sadako’s story while expressing a continuing hope for peace. A bell hangs inside the monument and can be rung by visitors.
The inscription and its setting
The inscription at the base reads: “This is our cry. This is our prayer. For building peace in the world.” Take time to read it before moving on; it sets out the purpose of the memorial in direct terms.
The monument stands within Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, near the Peace Flame, the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome. School groups sometimes gather here to pay their respects with songs, poems or other presentations. The setting can be busy, so an early visit may allow a quieter pause.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Children’s Peace Monument?
It is inside Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, near the Peace Flame, the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome.
Who does the monument commemorate?
It honours Sadako Sasaki and the children who died as a result of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
What do the paper cranes represent?
The cranes are connected to Sadako’s story and express hope for peace. Many are sent by children and peace groups around the world.
When was the monument unveiled?
It was unveiled on 5 May 1958, Children’s Day in Japan.
