On Aug. 6,1945, an American B-29 bomber dropped the world's first atom bomb over Hiroshima, located in the southwestern part of Japan's main island, Honshu. Three days later, a second bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, on the island of Kyushu, eventually causing the Japanese to surrender, finally putting an end to World War II.
More than 140,000 people lost their lives in the bombing, and the city of Hiroshima was destroyed, reducing the amount of buildings from 90,000 to 28,000. However, among the structures that survived the blast were streetcars, a popular means of transportation.
These trolleys were back up and fully operating three short days after the attack, and have since been seen as an inspirational symbol, representing the strength of the city. Today, only three WWII-era trolleys are still operating.
And now 70 years after the A-bomb was dropped, one particular Hiroshima trolley has started running again.
Retired back in 2006, Hiroshima Electric Railway Co.'s trolley #653 was restored and painted with the original blue and gray colors to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the bombing.
The streetcar began running on June 14, and will continue to be in service until Aug. 30.
Passengers who board the trolley can watch a documentary that features the accounts of war survivors, as well as the story of the city's journey to recovery after the bomb was dropped.
Two of the other remaining 650-model trams still operate. They were painted green and tan after the war ended.
Now 70 years after the A-bomb, passengers can take a trip on the trolley on weekends and national holidays. The #653 trolley is making round trips between JR Hiroshima Station and Hiroden Nishi-hiroshima Station, passing in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome. The dome, as it's called, was originally part of the Hiroshima Prefectural industrial Promotion Hall. It now anchors the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. It was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded.
Via: Asahi Shimbun
Photo: TopTips News | YouTube
