Children's Science Museum, Hiroshima

The Hiroshima Children's Museum, established in 1980, is a captivating destination nestled within the Hiroshima City Children's Library, designed to inspire and educate young minds. Located centrally, adjacent to the Green Arena convention center and the seasonal Family Pool, the museum is a beacon of learning in a city steeped in historical significance.

This museum offers a dynamic environment where children can immerse themselves in interactive exhibits and activities that cover a broad range of topics including science, culture, and local history. Given Hiroshima’s unique background as the site of the first atomic bombing, the museum also likely integrates themes of peace and understanding into its educational content.

The facility spreads across two floors, each packed with engaging and educational installations. The first floor features a science discovery area where children can explore physical phenomena like gravity and electric currents through hands-on experiments. They can measure their speed on a racing track, navigate through a climbable maze, or slide down to the floor below. The second floor offers model trains and computer simulation games, including a virtual soccer block game, enriching the learning experience with fun and interactive technology.

Additionally, the museum's proximity to the A-bomb Dome tram or bus stop, an iconic historical site, enhances its educational value, making it a poignant stop for those visiting the city. Nearby, children can also explore an old-fashioned train display and enjoy the bustling concrete courtyard popular with skateboarders and BMX riders.

While entry to the museum is free, there is a fee for the Planetarium, which promises a stellar astronomical experience. Adjacent to the museum is a public library filled with children's books primarily in Japanese, including beautifully illustrated picture books that appeal to non-Japanese speakers as well.