Hypocenter: the point directly beneath an atomic explosion, the spot that is exposed to the center of the bomb’s destructive force, often called Ground zero.

In Nagasaki that precise point is marked by a cenotaph in the center of concentric circles.

The monument’s empty tomb stands in honor of those who were never found. Physically being in this place brought us to an emotional state that is impossible to describe.

Nearby, a scorched vestige of a wall from the Urakami Cathedral stands as a stark remembrance of the devastating blast.

This was once the largest Catholic church in The Far East, but stood just a few hundred feet from the center of the explosion.

See the rebuilt cathedral and the eerie statues that somehow survived the bomb.

Just below the wall remnants, along the river, a window is cut into the bank.

Peering in we saw the moment of impact preserved, the ground as it appeared immediately after the detonation… strewn with crushed brick, scorched rock, and melted glass.

As an inspiration for prayer and reflection, a stone lantern from the Shotokuhi Temple that had been located a mile away from the hypocenter was brought to the park.

It was the only part of the temple to survive the devastation.

A photo is displayed showing the destruction at the temple.

More about beautiful, peaceful Nagasaki

In another shrine, paper cranes have been hung in strands of one thousand each, offered by individuals wishing for peace.