Hiroshima Children's Museum and Library
A free, interactive museum offering hands-on science exhibits, a model railway, and a planetarium for children.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Hiroshima Children's Museum and Library
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, interactive museum offering hands-on science exhibits, a model railway, and a planetarium for children.
"It’s free and it was quite fun for my son and daughter aged 9 & 11."
🎯 Free Admission & Lockers!
Entry is free, and so are the lockers. Perfect for a hassle-free visit! :moneywithwings: :key:
👟 Wear comfy shoes
Kids will be running around and exploring all the interactive exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Science Exhibits
Ground Floor
Hands-on experiments and puzzles that spark curiosity and learning for young minds.
Model Railway Display
Upper Levels
A charming model train setup that delights children and adults alike with its intricate details.
Planetarium Shows
4th Floor
Explore the cosmos with engaging shows, though check schedules as it can be closed for private events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Fun for Little Ones
Best for Younger Explorers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission & Lockers!
Entry is free, and so are the lockers. Perfect for a hassle-free visit! :moneywithwings: :key:
👟 Wear comfy shoes
Kids will be running around and exploring all the interactive exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
🚫 No Food or Drinks Inside
Plan to eat before or after your visit. Plenty of options nearby! :noentrysign: :forkandknife:
⏰ Check Planetarium Schedule
It can be closed for private events, so confirm showtimes beforehand. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission & Lockers!
Entry is free, and so are the lockers. Perfect for a hassle-free visit! :moneywithwings: :key:
👟 Wear comfy shoes
Kids will be running around and exploring all the interactive exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
🚫 No Food or Drinks Inside
Plan to eat before or after your visit. Plenty of options nearby! :noentrysign: :forkandknife:
⏰ Check Planetarium Schedule
It can be closed for private events, so confirm showtimes beforehand. :calendar:
📚 English Descriptions Available
Many exhibits have English labels, making it accessible for international visitors. :earth_americas:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hiroshima Children's Museum for its free admission and engaging, hands-on exhibits that are perfect for children under 12. The availability of free lockers and English descriptions are also highlighted as significant benefits. While some exhibits may occasionally be out of service, the overall experience is considered fun and educational for young families.
"Staff very welcoming. Kids enjoyed the experiments on the ground floor and puzzles on the upper levels. There looks to be a great play area for really young kids just after the entrance."
Colin Pearse
"This is a great place to let the kids burn off some energy for a few hours. They had a great time, and I liked the price (free). They also have small lockers for free, an added bonus to drop our backpacks for a few hours as well. No eating inside though, FYI."
Noga Ailer
"It’s free and it was quite fun for my son and daughter aged 9 & 11. Many exhibits were out of service during our visit but it’s still within an acceptable level. We spent around 1.5 hours doing games etc. It’s 3 floors of activities and there’s a planetarium on the 4th floor that we didn’t get to visit since it was closed off due to a kindergarten field trip activity. I would recommend this place if you have children younger than 12. Location is easily accessible from across the Peace Park, and lots of food options around this place."
Bayu Ubay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located across from the Peace Park, making it easily accessible. Many visitors arrive on foot after exploring the park. Public transport options are also readily available in the area, with bus stops and tram lines nearby.
While specific parking details for the museum itself aren't widely advertised, there are likely public parking facilities in the vicinity, especially near the Peace Park. It's often easier and more convenient to use public transportation.
Based on reviews, the museum seems to be accessible for strollers and likely for wheelchairs, with play areas and exhibits spread across multiple floors. It's always a good idea to confirm directly with the museum for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Admission to the Hiroshima Children's Museum is completely FREE! This makes it an excellent option for families looking for affordable entertainment. :moneywithwings:
No advance booking is typically required for general admission, as the museum is free. However, for special events or planetarium shows, it's always wise to check their official website or inquire directly.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Hiroshima Children's Museum website for the most up-to-date information. Generally, it's open during daytime hours on most days.
Yes, the museum offers free lockers, which is a great perk for visitors with backpacks or bags. This allows you to explore the exhibits hands-free and comfortably. :key:
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum. There are plenty of dining options available in the surrounding area if you plan to eat before or after your visit. :noentrysign:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum is most enjoyable for children under 12 years old. The interactive exhibits and play areas are specifically designed to engage younger minds and encourage hands-on learning. :child:
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours at the museum, depending on the age of the children and how many exhibits they engage with. It's a great place to burn off energy for a few hours. :clock1:
Yes, many of the exhibits have descriptions in English, which is very helpful for international visitors. This makes the learning experience more accessible for everyone. :earth_americas:
It's possible that some exhibits might be temporarily out of service. However, reviews suggest there are still plenty of engaging activities available, so it shouldn't significantly detract from the overall experience. :construction_worker:
Yes, there appears to be a dedicated play area for very young children located just after the entrance, making it suitable for toddlers and preschoolers as well. :baby:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities within the museum itself. Visitors are asked not to consume food or drinks inside the exhibition areas. :forkandknife:
The museum is located in an area with plenty of food options. You'll find numerous restaurants and cafes around the Peace Park and the surrounding streets, offering various cuisines. :ramen:
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the museum, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas. Avoid using flash if it might disturb others or damage displays. :camerawithflash:
The model railway display and the interactive science exhibits often make for fun and engaging photos. The planetarium, if accessible, can also offer unique photographic opportunities. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While some exhibits might be out of order, there are plenty of interactive science experiments and puzzles to keep kids entertained for a couple of hours. The model railway is also a big hit. Remember that food and drinks are not allowed inside, so plan your meals accordingly. The proximity to the Peace Park also makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the primary audience is children, the engaging nature of the exhibits and the historical context of the area can still be interesting for adults. It's a great way to experience a local attraction without a significant financial outlay, especially if you're traveling with kids who need an outlet for their energy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of the Original Building
While the original library served its purpose for decades, it was eventually replaced by the current, larger Hiroshima Children's Museum in 1980. The new building offers more extensive interactive exhibits and facilities, catering to a broader range of activities for children. However, the memory of Tange's original design and its symbolic resonance remains a point of interest for those familiar with its history.
This evolution from a library to a comprehensive museum reflects Hiroshima's ongoing commitment to providing educational and engaging spaces for its younger generation, while also acknowledging and learning from its history. The transition highlights the city's resilience and forward-looking approach to remembrance and education.
Interactive Learning and Play
Moving up to the upper levels, visitors will find more engaging activities, including the popular model railway display. This intricate setup is a visual treat and often a highlight for both children and adults. The museum also features a planetarium on the fourth floor, offering a chance to explore the stars and learn about astronomy. However, it's worth noting that the planetarium can sometimes be closed for private events, so checking the schedule is advisable. [^R]
Overall, the museum is designed to let children burn off energy while simultaneously learning. The inclusion of a dedicated play area for very young children, along with exhibits that have English descriptions, makes it a welcoming and accessible space for a wide range of families. [^R]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit