INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP BELL

The International Friendship Bell is 8,000 pounds of bronze cast with images that symbolize the peace and friendship by Japan and Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

Though World War II divided this country and Japan, two Oak Ridge citizens suggested the Japanese-style bell as a symbol of unity as Oak Ridge, born of the war, celebrated its 50th birthday in 1992-93. Ram and Shigeko Uppuluri, he from India and she from Japan, envisioned the bell as a fitting birthday memorial and as a monument to the reconciliation and peace that blossomed after the war. Their vision led to a bronze bell, nearly seven feet tall and five feet wide, designed by an Oak Ridge artist and cast by a family foundry in Kyoto, Japan. The Uppuluri family remains passionately committed to housing the bell in a new Peace Pavilion, actively participating in the citizens committee pursuing these plans.

The International Friendship Bell and Peace Pavilion are among significant sites for tours by visitors coming to Oak Ridge to learn more of the city’s history. Visitors can stop by and ring the 8,000 lb bell and pause to remember those who have sacrificed so much for the Nation.