Immersing oneself in Hiroshima’s poignant past has never been so visceral. The Hiroshima/A-bombed Train 653 & VR Tour in Peace Memorial Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s resilient history. Aboard the historic Tram No. 653, participants embark on a captivating journey, guided by knowledgeable experts who unveil the profound stories etched into the very fabric of this remarkable place. From exclusive access to off-limits areas to breathtaking VR experiences, this tour promises to leave an indelible mark, inspiring a deeper understanding of Hiroshima’s unwavering spirit. There’s more to uncover, and the path ahead beckons with a profound promise.
Key Points
- Tour highlights the historic A-bombed Tram No. 653 and provides VR experiences that contrast Hiroshima’s past devastation with its present tranquility.
- Tour package includes access to off-limits areas, guided tours, and panoramic train rides, offering a unique and immersive exploration of Hiroshima’s history.
- The tour is priced at $89.95 per person and lasts for 3 hours, with a maximum of 10 participants for an intimate experience.
- The tour starts at the Tourist Information Center on the 2nd floor of Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit, with guides holding reception signs for easy identification.
- The tour emphasizes the resilience and impact of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, providing a thought-provoking firsthand perspective on this historical event.
Overview and Pricing
The Hiroshima A-bombed Train VR Tour offers an immersive experience for visitors to explore the city’s history through the lens of the iconic tram No. 653.
Priced at $89.95 per person, the 3-hour tour includes a guided exploration and panoramic train rides. Groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour features live English-speaking guides, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now & pay later option.
Participants will ride the A-bombed tram, explore off-limits areas, and compare the city’s past and present through VR experiences, culminating in a visit to the tram depot typically closed to the public.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins at the Tourist Information Center, located on the 2nd floor of the Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit.
Visitors will embark on a guided tour, starting with a 1-hour journey aboard the historic A-bombed Tram No. 653. This is followed by a 30-minute guided tour and train ride, providing a unique perspective on the city’s past and present.
The experience culminates with a 25-minute panoramic train ride and a 40-minute guided tour at the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome.
Throughout the tour, you will explore off-limits areas and compare the city’s current peaceful state with its harrowing past through engaging VR experiences.
The tour concludes at the 1-1 Nakajimachō location.
Experience Highlights
Visitors embark on a captivating journey, riding the historic A-bombed Tram No. 653, which has been in operation since the atomic bombing.
They’ll explore off-limits areas with a knowledgeable guide, gaining unique access to the tram depot typically closed to the public.
Through VR experiences, they’ll compare the current peaceful city with its past, vividly contrasting the devastation of the past with Hiroshima’s present-day tranquility.
This immersive tour offers a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the city’s resilience, providing a powerful firsthand perspective on the lasting impact of the atomic bomb.
Inclusions
VR goggles, A-bomb train fare, and an earphone guide fee are all included in the tour package. This comprehensive offering ensures visitors can fully enjoy the historical experience.
The package also includes:
- Transportation to the meeting place, making it convenient for participants.
- Access to off-limits areas, providing a unique perspective on the city’s past.
- A comparison of Hiroshima’s current peaceful state with its traumatic history through VR experiences.
- A visit to the tram depot, typically closed to the public, offering a behind-the-scenes look.
However, food and drinks aren’t included, allowing visitors to explore local cuisine on their own.
Important Information
How convenient that the tour operates rain or shine, ensuring that inclement weather won’t dampen the experience.
Participants will meet at the Tourist Information Center, located on the 2nd floor of the Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit, where guides will be present with a reception sign. This allows for a seamless start to the tour.
After the immersive journey, guests must complete a post-tour questionnaire, providing valuable feedback to enhance future experiences.
With these thoughtful details, the Hiroshima A-bombed Train VR Tour is designed to be a smooth and informative experience, rain or shine, for all who embark on this historical exploration.
Meeting Location
The tour you will find the meeting point at the Tourist Information Center, located on the 2nd floor of the Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit.
Guides will be present, holding a reception sign, ready to welcome the group.
The meeting location offers:
- Convenient access, as it’s situated within the main train station.
- Helpful staff at the information desk to provide directions or assistance.
- A comfortable waiting area to gather the group before the tour begins.
- Restrooms and other amenities for participants’ convenience.
This centralized and easily identifiable meeting point ensures a seamless start to the Hiroshima A-bombed Train VR Tour experience.
Guided Tour and Panoramic Rides
The guided tour and panoramic train rides take participants on an immersive journey through Hiroshima’s history. Tour-goers can expect a 1-hour guided tour and train ride, a 30-minute guided tour and train ride, and a 25-minute panoramic train ride. The tour culminates in a 40-minute guided exploration of the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome.
| Experience | Duration |
|---|---|
| Guided tour and train ride | 1 hour |
| Guided tour and train ride | 30 minutes |
| Panoramic train ride | 25 minutes |
| Guided tour at Atomic Bomb Dome | 40 minutes |
Throughout the experience, participants can compare Hiroshima’s past and present through immersive VR technology, and explore off-limits areas with their knowledgeable guide.
Tour Duration and Group Size
The Hiroshima A-bombed Train VR Tour offers a unique 3-hour experience for a limited group size of 10 participants.
This intimate group setting allows for a more personalized and immersive exploration of Hiroshima’s history.
The tour includes:
- A 1-hour guided tour and train ride.
- A 30-minute guided tour and train ride.
- A 25-minute panoramic train ride.
- A 40-minute guided tour at the Atomic Bomb Dome.
This carefully curated itinerary ensures that participants can deeply connect with the city’s past while enjoying the convenience of a live English-speaking guide throughout the journey.
The small group size also enables greater flexibility and opportunities for engaging discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own VR Headset?
Participants can bring their own VR headsets, though the tour provides VR goggles for the experience. Using personal VR devices may enhance the immersive experience, but the tour’s equipment is included in the price.
Will There Be a Break for Lunch During the Tour?
The tour does not include a scheduled lunch break. Participants are free to purchase food and drinks independently during the free time segments or at the conclusion of the tour.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Participants can take photographs during the tour, but it’s important to be respectful of the somber history and not disrupt the experience. Photos are allowed in designated areas, as directed by the knowledgeable guide.
Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour offers accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair-users can participate, and the guides provide assistance as needed. However, visitors should check specific requirements when booking to ensure the tour meets their accessibility needs.
Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no age limit or minimum age requirement for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though parental discretion is advised given the historical nature of the content.
Recap
The Hiroshima/A-bombed Train 653 & VR Tour in Peace Memorial Park offers an immersive and poignant experience. Participants journey through the city’s history, from the devastation of the atomic bombing to its resilient recovery, fostering a deeper understanding of the past and present. Through guided tours, VR experiences, and access to off-limits areas, this tour provides a profound and enlightening exploration of Hiroshima’s enduring spirit.
