On the streets of Tokyo, a majority of people reporters spoke to on Tuesday said U.S. President Barack Obama does not need to say sorry during his May 27 visit to Hiroshima.

And an online poll by The Japan Times, which sampled viewers worldwide, found overwhelming agreement.

"I'm simply surprised that the president of the United States is finally visiting Hiroshima," said housewife Ayako Nishio, 54. "It's hard to comment on its political aspects, but I think many Japanese are feeling positive about his visit."