Guided by Masahiro Sasaki, the older brother of Sadako whose story sparked a global peace movement following the atomic bombings, learn more about the impact of war on Japan and the importance of peace going forward

Details

• Private experience

• Location: Asakura District, Fukuoka

• 2 hours

• 10 people max. Minimum of 2 participants required.

• Offered in Japanese, with friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in English
  (French/German/Spanish interpretation may be available upon request)

Preserving Memories, Protecting Peace

Discussing wartime activities and recollecting history regarding World War II is a complicated topic, with trauma and suffering both inflicted and experienced by all sides involved. However, one thing that can be agreed upon following WWII's conclusion is the absolute need for peace in the world, especially concerning the decades of devastation due to the dropping of the atomic bombs, especially to civilians. One of the most famous stories of hibakusha, or "bomb-affected people," is that of Sadako Sasaki. Only 2 years old at the time of the bombing of Hiroshima but living just 1.6 km away from the point of impact, Sadako survived - at first. However, as she got older, Sadako began intensely battling the after-effects of the bomb's radiation, and was ultimately hospitalized at the age of 12. After hearing a legend that folding origami paper cranes could grant a wish, Sadako began diligently folding crane after crane, dreaming of good health, long lives, and peace. She passed away in 1955, but her story sparked greater discussion on the gruesome horrors of nuclear weapons, and she became a symbol of movements for world peace. At the Tachiarai Peace Memorial Museum, located on the former grounds of the Tachiarai Airfield which was one of the largest in East Asia during the war and a transfer point for kamikaze pilot attacks, learn more about the history of the war and the need for peace from Sadako's older brother, Masahiro.

What you’ll do

Experience a guided tour of the Tachiarai Peace Memorial Museum accompanied by Masahiro Sasaki, the only surviving brother of peace icon Sadako Sasaki. Listen to his personal stories of Sadako's struggles and the inspiration he takes from her tales to spread peace following the atomic bombings of Japan.

Who can attend

Children must be 11+

Availability

Everyday
Session 1 (10:00 - 12:00)
Session 2 (13:30- 15:30)
Unavailable from December 26 to December 31

Access

50 minutes from Hakata station by car

Cancellation Policy

Please make your booking at least 2 weeks in advance. See cancellation policy here.
* A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.