Children's Peace Monument, Hiroshima

The Children's Peace Monument stands as a poignant and heartfelt tribute to the innocent victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, with a special focus on one brave young girl named Sadako Sasaki. This monument, which serves as a symbol of peace and hope, was meticulously designed by Japanese artists Kazuo Kikuchi and Kiyoshi Ikebe.

The story behind the creation of the Children's Peace Monument is deeply touching. In the aftermath of the atomic bombing, a fundraising campaign was initiated by Japanese school children, including Sadako's classmates, to construct a monument dedicated to the memory of the thousands of children who tragically lost their lives due to the horrific event. On May 5, 1958, known as Children's Day in Japan, the main statue of the monument, titled 'A-bomb Children,' was unveiled to the public.

At the top of the statue stands a representation of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who captured the hearts of many with her courageous and inspiring story. Sadako was diagnosed with leukemia, often referred to as the "atomic bomb disease," a result of the radiation exposure from the bombing. While facing her illness, she took inspiration from a Japanese legend that folding a thousand origami cranes would grant a wish. Despite her frailty, Sadako devoted her days to folding paper cranes in the hope of a world without war and suffering.

Sadly, Sadako passed away at the tender age of twelve, having folded over a thousand cranes. Her indomitable spirit and wish for peace resonated with people worldwide, leading to the tradition of leaving origami cranes at the Children's Peace Monument as a symbol of hope, peace, and solidarity with the victims of war.