Kiyoshi Tanimoto

Kiyoshi Tanimoto, a Methodist minister, is characterized by his boundless energy and determination, which play a crucial role in his efforts to save lives following the atomic bomb's devastation in Hiroshima. Initially, Tanimoto faces suspicion from his fellow citizens due to his American education, yet he remains committed to selflessly helping others. His charitable nature is vividly illustrated in his comforting of Mr. Tanaka, one of his past detractors, who seeks solace from Tanimoto as he lies dying from his injuries. Despite Mr. Tanaka's former influence and power, he is reduced to a state of suffering, highlighting Tanimoto's forgiving and compassionate spirit. However, Tanimoto's genuine intentions do not shield him from perceptions of seeking personal glory. His willingness to maintain connections with Americans and his Christian faith lead many of his compatriots to question his Japanese identity.

Father Wilhelm Kleinsorge

Father Wilhelm Kleinsorge, a German priest deeply connected with Japan, eventually adopts Japanese citizenship and the name Makoto Takakura. In the aftermath of the bombing, Father Kleinsorge demonstrates remarkable dedication to aiding others, revealing latent strengths he had not previously recognized. His ability to prioritize practicality over his usual squeamishness is evident when he considers eating a fish shortly after providing water to severely burned soldiers. Additionally, his unexpected composure in speaking to and comforting these soldiers underscores his profound commitment to his humanitarian mission.

Dr. Terufumi Sasaki

Dr. Terufumi Sasaki, a dedicated physician, works tirelessly, seemingly beyond human capacity, in the immediate aftermath of the bombing. Driven by personal ambition and the challenges he faces, Dr. Sasaki risks disapproval by practicing medicine outside typical hospital hours in his hometown. He also pursues a marriage proposal with a young woman despite clear opposition from her father. Although Dr. Sasaki does not engage in research related to the atomic bomb's medical effects, he distances himself from its traumatic memories. His near-death experience with lung cancer prompts a significant shift in his perspective, leading him to value relationships and derive personal fulfillment from helping others, contrasting with his earlier focus on financial stability.

Miss Toshinki Sasaki

Miss Toshinki Sasaki, a personnel clerk, suffers a severe leg injury from the bombing. Her dedication to her family is apparent in her routine of rising at 4 a.m. to prepare meals before heading to work on the morning of the attack. The months following her injury are marked by patience as she awaits healing. Over time, her inherent strengths become apparent in her work with orphans and the elderly, culminating in her decision to become a Catholic nun, Sister Dominique, during her middle age.

Mrs. Hatsuyo Nakamura

Mrs. Hatsuyo Nakamura, a widowed mother of three young children, exemplifies resilience as she strives to keep her family intact after the bombing. Despite facing the debilitating effects of radiation sickness, she continues to work tirelessly. As a young woman, she experiences embarrassment due to baldness caused by radiation, yet in her retirement, she finds joy in participating in a folk-dance group and takes pride in the achievements of her children.

Dr. Masakazu Fujii

Dr. Masakazu Fujii, a physician whose home and clinic are obliterated by the atomic bomb, embraces a hedonistic lifestyle, priding himself on his material possessions. Preferring Scotch over sake, he constructs an American-style residence and capitalizes on the opportunities presented by the occupation army, promoting a specialization in venereal disease treatment. In his final years, Dr. Fujii is left in a vegetative state, and his family becomes embroiled in disputes over his estate, continuing his tradition of individualism and discord.