Peace Park, Sadako Sasaki Statue

Peace Park, located in Hiroshima, Japan, is a memorial dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing that devastated the city on August 6, 1945. The park serves as a poignant reminder of the horrors of nuclear warfare and a symbol of hope for global peace. It is home to various monuments, museums, and memorials, each telling the story of the tragic event and its aftermath. The park aims to educate visitors about the impact of the bombing and to promote a message of peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons.

One of the most significant monuments in Peace Park is the Sadako Sasaki Statue, also known as the Children’s Peace Monument. Sadako Sasaki was a young girl who survived the initial bombing but later developed leukemia, known as the 'atomic bomb disease.' Inspired by an old Japanese legend that promises a wish to anyone who folds a thousand paper cranes, Sadako began folding cranes in the hope of recovering from her illness. Despite her efforts, she passed away in 1955 at the age of 12.

The Sadako Sasaki Statue depicts a young girl holding a golden crane, symbolizing her wish for peace and hope. Surrounding the statue are thousands of colorful paper cranes, sent from around the world as a tribute to Sadako and as a call for peace. This monument stands as a powerful reminder of the innocent lives lost and the enduring spirit of those who strive for a world free of nuclear weapons. It continues to inspire visitors to reflect on the consequences of war and the importance of working towards a peaceful future.