Hiroshima Orizuru Tower | Hiroshima

Information

Landmark: Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
City: Hiroshima
Country: Japan
Continent: Asia

Hiroshima Orizuru Tower, Hiroshima, Japan, Asia

The Hiroshima Orizuru Tower is a 53-meter observation tower located in Hiroshima, Japan, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

It stands adjacent to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Visual Characteristics

The tower features a cylindrical concrete structure with a white exterior. Its design incorporates large glass panels on the observation deck, maximizing outward visibility. The base of the tower is integrated with a retail and exhibition space.

Location & Access Logistics

The Hiroshima Orizuru Tower is situated at 5-54, Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers east of Hiroshima Station. Access is via the Hiroshima Electric Railway streetcar, with the nearest stop being "Genbaku Dome-mae" (Peace Memorial Park). Parking is available in nearby commercial lots, though public transport is recommended due to limited capacity.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The tower was constructed and opened in 2020. Its purpose is to provide a modern vantage point for viewing the rebuilt city of Hiroshima and to serve as a space for cultural exchange and reflection, complementing the nearby Peace Memorial Park.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for 360-degree views. The tower also houses an interactive exhibit detailing the history and reconstruction of Hiroshima. A unique activity involves participating in the "Orizuru Wall," where visitors fold paper cranes and add them to a designated wall.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the ground floor and the observation deck level. Limited shaded areas are present on the observation deck. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the tower. Food and beverage options are available at the ground-floor retail space and nearby commercial establishments.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal photography, early morning or late afternoon provides softer lighting. The tower is open year-round, but clear days offer the best visibility. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The tower's name, "Orizuru," translates to "folded crane." The paper crane is a symbol of peace and hope in Japan, stemming from the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who folded cranes while battling leukemia caused by the atomic bombing. The tower's design and the Orizuru Wall activity directly reference this enduring symbol.