Opportunity to Travel to Hiroshima on an Unforgettable Peacebuilding Trip
14 Golden Tickets is how we describe the opportunity that awaits you in Fall, 2026. October 14-19, 2026 Ray Matsumiya from the Oleander Initiative and Maria Kliavkoff from Healthy Mourning and Rotarian from District 5080, will travel to Hiroshima, Japan and meet with a group of 14 people who are interested in exploring the story of Hiroshima, Japan.
Oleander is the magnificent flower that grew back shortly after the atomic bomb destroyed everything in Hiroshima. It is a symbol of rebirth and hope; it is at the heart of the people of Hiroshima. As we learn about their history, their story, and their instinct for healing, we discover how they transformed their grief into mourning to build an amazing culture of peace. Today, Hiroshima is a vibrant and beautiful place where peace thrives and is celebrated.
In our time together we will likely (hopefully all, dependent on availability):
- Have a special meeting with Hibakusha (the survivors of the bomb);
- Learn about the Facets of Hiroshima from Hiroshima University Professors;
- Tour the Peace Park and the Peace Memorial Museum;
- Enjoy a hands-on experience of Origami Crane Making;
- Take the Hibaku Jomoku Tree Tour;
- Visit the Honkawa School, Nagatsuka Monastery and the island of Miyajima;
- Have time for Reflection, Digestion, Integration and Inspiration;
- Enjoy a Kagura Performance and local cuisine including Okonomiyaki and Sushi.
- Return home inspired to create communities of peace in our own corners of the world.
Program Fees: Until final arrangements are made for the group, we cannot confirm price, we can say that the range will be $2,400 – 2,800US per person. The variables include exchange rate fluctuation and number of participants. This price includes everything from the first night in Hiroshima on the 14th to our final luncheon together before departure on the 19th. Hotel, meals, speakers, activities and admission tickets are all included. Please contact RayMat@ume.org for more information.