On the 1st of August 2012 at 8.00p.m. the river beside the Atomic Bomb Dome lit up with thousands of bright blue LED lights in preparation for the Peace Memorial Ceremony on the 6th. The walls alongside the river were dotted with similar LED lit paper cranes. The cranes and lights coupled with music played over speakers created a magical and ethereal scene reminiscent of stars in the sky. The organizers of the ceremony hope to make this an annual event.
- 1 min read
Lights and Paper Cranes
LED lights and paper cranes at the Atomic Bomb Dome

By Ciara Long
Community writer
Join the discussion
Laura Weaver
10 years ago
Lovely cover photo, the lights look lovely
Michelle Montaño
11 years ago
These pictures are lovely. I look forward to seeing the LED paper cranes this year, but while I wait, I'll make some paper cranes of my own.
Amanda Callander
11 years ago
Great photos! The cranes look amazing, yet it's difficult to think they were born out of such a devastating event. It's a beautiful tribute to mark the occasion though.
3 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Sendai Named a Top Summer Destination by Lonely Planet
Miyagi -
2
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored -
3
Aichi Awaits: Seven Authentic Experiences Beyond Nagoya
Aichi - Sponsored -
4
Volcano-hopping in Kyushu
Activities -
5
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
6
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
7
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
8
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
9
Osaka Noh Festa
Osaka - Sponsored -
10
Japan Is One of Emirates' Top Summer Searches
Planning
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo -
7
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
8
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto