The role of post-war reconstruction planning in Hiroshima' image-shift to a Peace Memorial City

Hiroshima's post-war reconstruction planning played a pivotal role in transforming the city's image into a symbol of peace. This shift was not merely architectural but also cultural, leveraging the Genbaku Dome as a central element to memorialize the atomic bombing and promote peace. The study highlights how strategic urban planning, despite financial constraints and property rights complexities, facilitated this transformation. It examines the drivers behind recovery efforts, including international collaboration and local initiatives, which shaped Hiroshima's identity. By analyzing historical documents and planning records, researchers demonstrate how intentional preservation of war-damaged structures alongside new development projects created a unique narrative for the city.

Alkazei, A., & Matsubara, K. (2018). The role of post-war reconstruction planning in Hiroshima' image-shift to a Peace Memorial City. International Planning History Society Proceedings, Vol. 18 No. 1 (2018): Looking at the World History of Planning. https://doi.org/10.7480/IPHS.2018.1.2697