The Urakami Peace Walk is a memorial route in the Urakami district of Nagasaki, running from the Atomic Bomb Hypocenter in Matsuyama-machi through Peace Park to Urakami Cathedral. The trailhead is reached from the Matsuyama-machi tram stop on Line 1 or 3; no permit is required and access to the outdoor memorial sites is free. The route covers 2 km with minimal elevation and a gentle gradient, making it an easy walk suitable for all ages. The surface is entirely paved pathways and sidewalks through parkland, mostly open with some shade from park trees, and presents no technical difficulty. Landmarks along the way include Hypocenter Park marking the center of the 1945 atomic bombing, the Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall, the Peace Statue and fountains within Peace Park, and the rebuilt Urakami Cathedral at the route's end. No refuge huts are needed given the urban setting; restrooms and vending machines are available at Peace Park and near the Atomic Bomb Museum along the route.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Urakami
- Best season
- Year-round; August for peace ceremonies
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water
Location
Start: Atomic Bomb Hypocenter (Matsuyama-machi); End: Peace Park (Matsuyama-machi)
32.7736, 129.8635 View on map
Highlights
- Atomic Bomb Hypocenter marking the center of the 1945 blast
- Peace Statue and fountains within Peace Park
- Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum along the route
- Rebuilt Urakami Cathedral
Tips for visiting
- Visit quietly and respectfully; the route passes memorial and mourning sites
- August 9th draws large crowds for the annual peace ceremony
- Combine the walk with a visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum near the Hypocenter
- The route is fully paved, so comfortable everyday shoes are sufficient
When to visit
Any time of year works well; early morning offers a quieter, more reflective visit, while August 9th hosts the annual peace ceremony.
Accessibility
The entire route is paved and flat, making it fully wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an admission fee?
The outdoor memorial sites are free; the Atomic Bomb Museum charges a small entrance fee.
How long does the walk take?
About 1 to 2 hours including visits to the main sites.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, though visitors are asked to be respectful near the memorial sites.
Is the route wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entire route is paved and flat.