Reflecting on the Importance of Peace: The Ongoing Peace Exhibition

Ongoing Peace Exhibition in Minato City

The Peace Exhibition is currently underway in Minato City, designed to raise awareness about the significance of peace as the world reflects on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Held across five venues within the district, this exhibition serves as a vital opportunity to commemorate war and bombing experiences while fostering a deeper understanding of peace.

Key Details

Location: Various venues in Minato City
Duration: Until August 15, 2023
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM (closed on weekends and holidays)

Main Attractions

1. Nobel Peace Prize Display
At the Minato City Hall lobby, visitors can admire the exhibition celebrating the Japan Confederation of A-and-H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations (Nihon Hidenkai), which was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize last October. This section features photographs from the award ceremony, the certificate, and a replica of the medal. Special discussions will also take place on August 15, led by individuals sharing their bombing experience.

2. Understanding Air Raids and War Experiences
Located in the local historical museum’s fourth-floor lecture room and special exhibition area, this segment focuses on the air raids in Tokyo and personal accounts from survivors. The exhibition runs until September 30, 2023, open from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on Saturdays until 8 PM, and closure on the third Thursday of each month.

3. Art Installation: Montage of Fire and Ash
Local artist Jun Ogata has created a poignant art piece encapsulating the memories of his mother, who witnessed the Tokyo air raids as a child. The installation reconstructs the devastating colors of war and the emotional aftermath of returning to a burnt city. Alongside this installation, a panel reconfigured from the publication commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Minato City Peace Declaration, featuring accounts of war experiences, is also exhibited.

4. Tragedy of Land Warfare in Okinawa
A segment dedicated to the heartbreaking ground battles that took place in Okinawa, reminding attendees of the human cost of war.

5. Young Lives at the Frontline
The Akasaka Library’s multipurpose hall highlights the stories of the many young individuals who risked their lives on the battlefield.

6. Threats to Global Peace
At Minato Park Shibaura, this exhibition section addresses current challenges that threaten peace around the world, encouraging discourse on global cooperation and understanding.

For more information about the Peace Exhibition and its events, visit the Minato City official website. This exhibition is an invitation not only to reflect on the past but to engage in meaningful conversations about peace and humanity's shared future.