岩国 – Iwakuni
Just across the prefectural border from Hiroshima lies Iwakuni, a charming historic town in Yamaguchi Prefecture. We took the JR train from Hiroshima to Iwakuni Station and then hopped on a bus that takes you straight towards the famous Kintaikyo Bridge. The journey is easy, and once you arrive, the beautiful Nishiki River, traditional streets and spectacular wooden bridge make it immediately clear why it is such a popular day trip.
The incredible Kintaikyo Bridge is the star of the show, with its distinctive wooden arches stretching across the river. After crossing the bridge, you’ll find plenty of little shops and, famously, an almost ridiculous number of ice cream flavours to choose from! It’s also a great place to try some local food and wander around at a much slower pace than you might in Hiroshima.
From here, you can take the ropeway up Mount Yokoyama towards the Castle. The ride itself is worth doing for the views, and at the top you’ll be rewarded with beautiful panoramas across the city, the Nishiki River and surrounding countryside. For us, the combination of the bridge, castle, ropeway, scenery, food and relaxed atmosphere made it well worth visiting as a half-day or full-day trip from Hiroshima.
Crossing the Historic Kintaikyo Bridge
Kintaikyo Bridge, one of Japan’s most well-known traditional wooden bridges, is the ideal starting point for touring this area. Its unique five-arched structure, which spans the Nishiki River, was first built in 1673 as a dependable link between the town and the bank beneath the Castle.
The bridge is now a well-known representation of the city. The location is particularly well-liked during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, and walking across Kintaikyo affords stunning views of the river, surrounding mountains, and old town.
Kikko Park and the Old Town
Kikko Park, a serene location featuring gardens, statues, historic structures, and old homes linked to its feudal past, is located beyond Kintaikyo Bridge.
An insight into the region’s samurai past can be found in the nearby old town as soon as you cross the Kintaikyo. The streets are lined with historic homes, small businesses, neighbourhood eateries, and traditional architecture, making it a great place to explore on foot.
Attractions related to the Kikkawa family, who ruled the Domain during the Edo period, can also be found here.
A Floating Castle Above the Nishiki River
The Castle, built by Kikkawa Hiroie in 1608, rises above the town on Mount Yokoyama. With a view of the nearby old town, the castle functioned as the political hub of the entire Domain.
The castle museum showcases Iwakuni’s samurai heritage and history. From Kikko Park, you can take the ropeway up Mount Yokoyama, followed by a short stroll through the forest towards the castle. Once you arrive, climb the castle steps and you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view and a fantastic photo opportunity.
Magnificent views of Iwakuni, the Nishiki River, and the Seto Inland Sea can be seen from the summit.
An Easy Day Trip from Hiroshima
Iwakuni’s location is one of its greatest benefits. It is conveniently located just west of Hiroshima in Yamaguchi Prefecture and is easily reachable by train, making it a useful addition to a Hiroshima itinerary.
After taking the train from Hiroshima to Iwakuni, tourists can stroll around the major historical sites. The area can be easily explored as a day excursion because Kintaikyo Bridge, Kikko Park, the old town, and Iwakuni Castle are all nearby.
Explore one of the most intriguing castle villages in western Japan by venturing outside of Hiroshima. For breathtaking views of Yamaguchi Prefecture, cross Kintaikyo Bridge, stroll around Kikko Park and the old neighbourhoods, and finally ascend to Iwakuni Castle.
