It was a day filled with a lot of site visits in Hiroshima. We started with a tour of the Peace Park. We had a guide who showed us around. We were able to see the atomic bomb dome, many memorials, the hypocenter, etc. We were also able to have a private meeting with a hibakusha who told us her experience. A few of the students were crying. It was a very emotional story. Our students asked several very good questions. After quick lunch, we visited the Peace Museum. It was also a great experience for all of us. I had never been in Hiroshima so it was a great opportunity for me, as well.
I’m not sure what my students’ reactions are. I have not had a chance to talk about the day with them. I hope there is something more than “it was very bad,” or “we should not do this again.” I’m also interested in asking what they will actually do to put their emotional reaction into practice. I really hope they were able to learn so much from this visit today that will help them think about the meaning of peace.
Yuya Kiuchi 