Iwakuni Castle (岩国城)

Flow of the course

About this spot

The keep rising at the mountain summit is a symbol of Iwakuni sightseeing alongside the Kintai Bridge. Originating from the mountain castle built by Kikkawa Hirotake, the first Iwakuni clan lord, the current keep was reconstructed in an elegant Momoyama-style Southern Barbarian design with protruding upper levels. Inside, swords, armor, and an intricately detailed model of the Kintai Bridge are on display. From the observation floor on the top level, you can gaze across the meandering Nishiki River, the castle town, and islands scattered across the Seto Inland Sea. The five-arch Kintai Bridge visible below is a composition found nowhere else. On days with clear air, you may even see as far as the Miyajima area, offering sweeping vistas unique to a mountain castle.

Tips

From the mountaintop station to the keep is a roughly 10-minute walk along a verdant forest path. Though well-maintained, the path has inclines, so wear comfortable walking shoes. The keep has stairs, so keep large baggage consolidated for comfort. The clearer the air, the farther you can see.

Best time to visit

Allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Bright afternoon hours allow you to see all the way to the Seto Inland Sea islands from the observation floor.

Access & map

〒741-0081 Yamaguchi Prefecture, Iwakuni City, Yokoyama 3-chome