The question isn’t if this bridge is just a crossing. Instead consider it a silent witness. We are standing at Tsurumi Bridge in Hiroshima. It is more than just a structure of wood and steel. It’s a poignant reminder of resilience. Tsurumi Bridge spans the Kyobashi River. It sits at the east end of Peace Boulevard. The bridge connects Tsurumi-cho and Hijiyama-honmachi areas.
Originally constructed in 1880 Tsurumi Bridge has a history. It predates the atomic bombing. Imagine Hiroshima on that fateful day. August 6 1945. The atomic bomb fell approximately 1.7 kilometers west of where we stand.
On the west side of Tsurumi Bridge nearly 2000 students worked. They came from 12 schools. These included Hiroshima Girls’ Commercial School and First Hiroshima Prefectural Junior High School. They dismantled buildings to create a fire lane. This area was also full of members of the Voluntary Army Fighting Corps. They came from nearby areas. Workers from companies like Toyo Kogyo now Mazda were also present.
The atomic blast’s heat rays reached Tsurumi Bridge. They ignited the railings. Flames quickly consumed parts of the bridge. But thankfully the fires were soon extinguished. Tsurumi Bridge became a vital path for survivors. People crossed it to seek refuge. They headed towards Mt. Hijiyama and other safer areas.
Look to the east end of Tsurumi Bridge. There once stood a large weeping willow tree. It survived the atomic bombing. The willow stood for over a century. Sadly in 2007 it withered and died. But life finds a way. A new trunk grew from the same roots. It now bears green leaves.
Tsurumi Bridge stands as a testament to the past. It is a symbol of Hiroshima’s enduring spirit. It connects not just places but also memories of survival. As we leave Tsurumi Bridge consider its role in history. Remember those who crossed it seeking safety. The bridge has been at the east end of the Peace boulevard since 2020. The Tsurumi Bridge continues to connect the Tsurumi-cho area and the Hijiyama-honmachi area.