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Oak Ridge, Tennessee: International Friendship Bell

Japanese bell -- 4 tons of solid bronze -- one of only two known to exist in the United States. In spite of Oak Ridge's role in the development of the atomic bomb, the International Friendship Bell celebrates growing friendship and peace with Japan.

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Friendship Bell.

International Friendship Bell

We enjoyed being able to ring this bell and stand inside it!

[Jennifer Gilmore, 04/10/2013]
International Friendship Bell

The Friendship Bell is a traditional Japanese bell, approximately 4.8 feet in diameter and 6.7 feet tall. It weighs approx. 8,250 pounds, and is cast of solid bronze. There are many pretty engravings on the bell. This is one of only two of these Japanese bells known to exist in the United States.

This bell is impressive, and you are allowed to ring it. It is outside under a shelter in a public park. The meaning behind the bell is what makes it so special. Because of Oak Ridge's role in the Manhattan Project, this bell celebrates the past 50 years of growing friendship and peace with Japan.

You don't have to call or get tickets or anything. Just stop by and walk out to the bell. There are walking paths that lead to it.

[Liz Moore, 01/14/2011]

International Friendship Bell

Address:
1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge, TN
Directions:
AK Bissell Park, east of Orau Way on south side of Hwy 95/Oak Ridge Turnpike. In a shelter in the park.
Admission:
Free.
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Nearby Offbeat Places

X-10 Nuclear ReactorX-10 Nuclear Reactor, Oak Ridge, TN - < 1 mi.
American Museum of Science and EnergyAmerican Museum of Science and Energy, Oak Ridge, TN - < 1 mi.
Atom Age GatehouseAtom Age Gatehouse, Oak Ridge, TN - 5 mi.
In the region:
"Shake, Buddy!" Civil War Monument, Knoxville, TN - 19 mi.

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