World Peace Memorial Cathedral
世界平和記念聖堂
A postwar Catholic cathedral built to mourn the victims of the atomic bombing, designed by Togo Murano. Together with the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, it was among the first postwar buildings designated Important Cultural Properties.
The World Peace Memorial Cathedral, also known as Nobori-cho Church, was initiated by Lassalle, a German priest who survived the atomic bombing and raised donations from around the world. It was completed in 1954 and designed by the architect Togo Murano. The exterior has an exposed concrete frame infilled with locally made brick, and its bell tower rises about 45 m. The building blends Japanese traditional design with modernism. Inside are stained-glass windows donated by various countries, an organ and a large bell. In 2006, together with the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, it became one of the first postwar buildings designated Important Cultural Properties. Admission is free, but visitors should not wander around during mass or events. It is about a 15-minute walk from JR Hiroshima Station, or a 5-minute walk from the Ginyamachi tram stop, and it can be combined with Shukkei-en and Hiroshima Castle.
Opening hours
approx. 09:00–17:00 (visits restricted during Mass and church events)
Nearby sights
- Shukkei-en Garden
- Okonomimura
- Hiroshima Museum of Art
- Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art
- Hondori Shopping Street
- Hiroshima Castle
- Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
- Atomic Bomb Dome