Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Peace Message Lantern Floating, Hiroshima, August 6 On the evening of the anniversary of the atomic bombing, paper lanterns carrying written messages of peace are set on the Motoyasu River in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome. It is a memorial first and a spectacle second, and that is the reason to go: lanterns drifting past the ruined dome make the day's ceremonies feel personal rather than historical. Anyone is welcome to write a message on a lantern and float it, for a small charge paid at the reception desk, with volunteers helping to light it; expect a long line to reach the riverbank. Attend the ceremony in Peace Memorial Park earlier in the day too, keep the mood quiet by the water, and take part before you take photographs.