ABOUT
About this spot
Iwakuni Castle is a historic mountain castle built in 1608 (the 13th year of Keicho) by Hiroie Kikkawa, the first lord of Iwakuni. The current keep was rebuilt in 1962 and recreates the "Nanban-zukuri" style, rare even across Japan. You reach the castle by taking a ropeway of about 3 minutes from Kikko Park at the foot of the mountain, enjoying an aerial stroll along the way. The path from the summit station to the castle is a pleasant walking course where you can enjoy forest bathing. Inside, the castle is a museum displaying a precise model of Kintai Bridge and valuable weapons such as swords and armor that were actually used. The highlight is the 360-degree panorama from the observation deck on the top floor. Below you can see the beautiful five-arched Kintai Bridge, the gently flowing Nishiki River, and, beyond the streets of Iwakuni, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. It is a recommended sightseeing spot for all generations, where you can savor the best views in Iwakuni while feeling the romance of history.
Last updated March 26, 2026