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Iwakuni Castle
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Iwakuni Castle

Getting around: From Hiroshima, take a JR train to Iwakuni Station (about 45 minutes), then a bus or taxi to Kintai Bridge, followed by a ropeway ride up the mountain to the castle.
Hours: Typically 9am-5pm daily, ropeway has its own operating hours; paid admission for both ropeway and castle.

Iwakuni Castle sits atop a mountain overlooking the Kintai Bridge and the town below, a 1962 concrete reconstruction of the original 1608 castle that stood for only a few years before being demolished under Edo-period regulations limiting the number of castles per domain. The current keep houses a small museum and offers sweeping views over the Nishiki River valley.

Most visitors combine it with Kintai Bridge below, taking the short ropeway ride up rather than hiking, making for a manageable half-day outing from Hiroshima.

Iwakuni Castle FAQs

Is the current castle the original structure?

No, it's a 1962 concrete reconstruction; the original 17th-century castle was demolished not long after being built.

How do I get up to the castle?

A ropeway from near Kintai Bridge carries visitors most of the way up, followed by a short walk.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, separate paid tickets for the ropeway and the castle interior.

Can I combine this with Kintai Bridge?

Yes, they're typically visited together as the castle sits directly above the bridge.

How far is Iwakuni from Hiroshima?

About 45 minutes by JR train.

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