It vividly describes his experiences as a survivor of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.

Initially, the book was refused publication by the American forces occupying Japan, until an appendix was added describing Japanese atrocities in the Philippines.

A film adaptation directed by Hideo Ōba was released September 23, 1950.

Directors Ian and Dominic Higgins cited The Bells of Nagasaki (the book) as one of the main inspirations for making the film.

It is the first Western film to deal directly with the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.