The Hiroshima/A-bombed Train 653 & VR Tour in Peace Memorial Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s harrowing history. By riding the historic Tram No. 653, which survived the 1945 atomic bombing, and embarking on a guided tour of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, participants can enjoy the city’s past. The virtual reality component further enhances the experience, providing a visceral exploration of Hiroshima’s pre-war vibrancy and the devastating aftermath. This tour not only underscores the city’s remarkable resilience but also serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring message of peace and nuclear disarmament.
Key Points
- The tour includes riding the historic A-bombed tram No. 653, which survived the 1945 atomic bombing and provides a poignant connection to Hiroshima’s tragic past.
- The guided tour of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park allows participants to witness the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome and learn about the city’s transformation since the bombing.
- The virtual reality (VR) experience immerses participants in a recreation of Hiroshima’s vibrant pre-war cityscape and the desolate aftermath of the atomic explosion, highlighting the scale of destruction and the city’s resilience.
- The combination of real and virtual experiences offers a profound and thought-provoking exploration of Hiroshima’s history, encouraging reflection on the message of peace and nuclear disarmament.
- The tour is a 3-hour small-group experience limited to 10 individuals, providing a more intimate and immersive experience compared to larger group tours.
Tour Overview
The 3-hour tour in Hiroshima takes participants on a small-group experience, limited to just 10 individuals. It allows them to ride the historic A-bombed tram No. 653 and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The tour includes a guided experience and a virtual reality (VR) component.
The itinerary starts at Hiroshima Station, with a panoramic train ride, followed by a guided tour of the Atomic Bomb Dome. The tour finishes at Nakajimachō. Highlights include the A-bombed tram ride, guided access to off-limits areas, and a combination of real and virtual experiences to compare Hiroshima’s past and present. The tour is provided rain or shine, and participants must complete a post-tour questionnaire.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chugoku Region.
Tour Itinerary
The tour’s itinerary begins at Hiroshima Station, where participants embark on a guided panoramic train ride lasting approximately 1 hour. The tour then continues with a 30-minute guided panoramic train ride.
Next, there’s a 25-minute panoramic train ride. Afterward, the group enjoys a 40-minute guided tour at the Atomic Bomb Dome. The tour finishes at Nakajima-chō.
Throughout the experience, participants can ride the historic A-bombed tram No. 653 and combine real-world exploration with a virtual reality experience, allowing them to compare Hiroshima’s past and present.
Riding the A-bombed Tram
One of the tour’s most distinctive features is the opportunity to ride the historic A-bombed tram No. 653. This tram, which survived the 1945 atomic bombing, serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s tragic past.
Participants will experience first-hand the sights and sounds of this unique mode of transportation that continued to operate even after the devastation. The tram ride provides a tangible connection to Hiroshima’s history, allowing visitors to better understand the resilience and recovery of the city.
This powerful experience sets the stage for the guided tour and VR exploration that follow, offering a multifaceted look at Hiroshima’s past and present.
Guided Tour of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
After the immersive tram ride, the tour transitions to a guided exploration of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Here, participants learn about the park’s significance and witness the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide provides in-depth historical context, recounting the events of August 6, 1945, and how the city has since transformed. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the park’s sobering message of peace and nuclear disarmament.
| Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Tour | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Tour | Atomic Bomb Dome | UNESCO World Heritage Site | Historical Context | Reflection on Peace |
| 40 minutes | Iconic structure | Preserved as memorial | Events of August 6, 1945 | Nuclear disarmament |
Virtual Reality Experience
As participants transition from the guided tour of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, they’re provided with VR goggles to experience a virtual recreation of the city before and after the atomic bombing. The VR experience allows them to witness the devastation wrought by the blast, immersing them in the historical events.
Comparing Hiroshima’s Past and Present
The tour’s VR experience allows participants to vividly contrast Hiroshima’s vibrant pre-war cityscape with the devastation wrought by the atomic bombing. Through the VR goggles, visitors can see the bustling streets and historic buildings before the fateful day.
This immersive experience is then juxtaposed with the bleak, desolate landscape depicted in the aftermath of the explosion. By comparing these stark contrasts, the tour provides a powerful visual narrative that underscores the sheer scale of destruction and the city’s remarkable resilience in the face of such tragedy.
This unique blend of real and virtual experiences offers a profound and thought-provoking exploration of Hiroshima’s past and present.
Tour Inclusions
The tour includes several key elements that enhance the overall experience for participants. Visitors receive VR goggles to enjoy virtual experiences, and they also have the chance to ride the historic A-bomb tram No. 653. An English-speaking guide leads the group, providing commentary and insights throughout the tour. Participants also receive earphone guides and pay the necessary tram fees. The tour takes place rain or shine, and attendees must complete a questionnaire afterward. While food and drinks are not included, these inclusions work together to create a comprehensive and memorable exploration of Hiroshima’s past and present.
| Inclusion | Description |
|---|---|
| VR Goggles | Rental fee for virtual reality experience |
| A-bomb Tram | Fare for riding the historic tram No. 653 |
| English Guide | Knowledgeable guide providing commentary |
| Earphones | Audio guide for participants |
| Tram Fare | Covers transportation costs during the tour |
Additional Information
Despite the tour taking place rain or shine, participants must fill out a questionnaire after the experience. This helps the tour organizers gather feedback and improve the tour for future guests.
No food or drinks are included in the tour, so participants are advised to plan accordingly.
The tour covers a range of experiences, including:
- Riding the historic A-bombed tram No. 653.
- Exploring off-limits areas with a guided tour.
- Combining real and virtual experiences through the VR goggles.
- Comparing Hiroshima’s past and present to better understand the city’s resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own VR Headset?
No, participants cannot bring their own VR headsets. The tour provides VR goggles, and the rental fee is included in the tour price. Using the provided equipment ensures a consistent experience for all participants.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour’s cancellation policy allows participants to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are subject to a 50% fee. No-shows forfeit the full tour cost.
Do I Need to Make Advance Reservations?
Yes, advance reservations are required for this tour. The group size is limited to 10 participants, so booking ahead is necessary to secure your spot on the 3-hour Hiroshima tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join the 3-hour Hiroshima tour, which includes riding the historic A-bombed tram and experiencing a guided VR tour in the Peace Memorial Park.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Participants can take photos during the tour, but it’s important to be respectful of the solemn nature of the sites visited. Photography guidelines will be provided by the guide to ensure a meaningful experience for all.
Recap
The Hiroshima/A-bombed Train 653 & VR Tour in Peace Memorial Park offers a powerful and immersive experience that honors the resilience of the city. Visitors can ride the historic tram, explore the Peace Memorial Park, and virtually experience Hiroshima’s past and present, underscoring the enduring message of peace and nuclear disarmament. This tour provides a deeply moving and educational insight into the city’s harrowing history.
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