The Hiroshima Prefecture Industrial Promotion Hall, now famously known as the Genbaku Dome, is one of the most iconic symbols of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Originally built in 1915, the structure was designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel and featured a distinctive metal dome. Located about 160 meters from the hypocenter—the point where the atomic bomb, nicknamed "Little Boy," exploded at an altitude of roughly 580 meters—the building survived the blast when nearly all surrounding structures were destroyed. The survival of the Genbaku Dome is often attributed to its construction materials and design. However, experts suggest that the angle of the explosion played a more critical role. Since the bomb detonated almost directly above the building, the force was directed vertically rather than horizontally. This minimized the horizontal pressure that typically collapses buildings, allowing the central structure of the Genbaku Dome to remain intact while surrounding structures were obliterated. It is important to note that the Genbaku Dome was not the intended target of the bombing. The primary target was the Aioi Bridge, a prominent landmark in the city. However, due to a geographical accident, the Hiroshima Prefecture Industrial Promotion Hall ended up nearly directly beneath the detonation point. After the war, the building was left as a ruin and not restored, serving as a powerful reminder of the devastation caused by the atomic bomb. In 1995, the Genbaku Dome was designated a Japanese Historical Monument, and in 1996, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List under the name "Genbaku Dome." Ongoing preservation efforts ensure the structure remains stable while maintaining its original, war-torn appearance, allowing visitors to reflect on the historical significance of the site.