Iwakuni Castle is a scenic mountaintop fortress located in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. Built in 1608 by the Kikkawa clan, it stands high above the Nishiki River, offering panoramic views of the surrounding city, lush forests, and the iconic Kintai Bridge below.
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| Iwakuni Castle |
The original castle was dismantled just a few years after construction under the Tokugawa shogunate’s “one castle per province” law. The current structure, a faithful reconstruction, was rebuilt in 1962 and now houses a museum showcasing samurai arms, artifacts, and the history of the Kikkawa family.
A visit to Iwakuni Castle typically begins with a walk across the famous wooden Kintai Bridge. From there, visitors can hike or take a cable car up Mount Shiroyama to reach the castle. The setting is especially stunning during cherry blossom season in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.
Whether you're drawn by feudal history, traditional architecture, or stunning vistas, Iwakuni Castle offers a peaceful and picturesque escape into Japan’s past.
- Highlights:
- Kintai Bridge and river views
- Samurai-era exhibits inside the castle
- Mountaintop panorama over Iwakuni
- Seasonal cherry blossoms and autumn leaves
- Cable car ride up Mount Shiroyama