Fukuyama Castle

Fukuyama Castle (福山城) stands just steps from Fukuyama Station, prominently perched on a low hill in the heart of the city. Originally constructed in 1622 by Mizuno Katsunari, a cousin of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the castle served as a vital defensive and administrative center in western Japan during the Edo period. Though heavily damaged in World War II, the main keep was reconstructed in 1966 and restored again in 2022 to mark the 400th anniversary of its founding. The keep is visually striking, with one side clad in black iron plating—a rare design element once intended to resist cannon fire—and the other three sides finished in traditional white plaster. Today, the interior houses a modern museum featuring historical artifacts, samurai armor, and exhibits on the castle’s strategic importance, while the top floor offers panoramic views over Fukuyama and the Seto Inland Sea.

Surrounding the castle is a spacious park that draws crowds during the cherry blossom season in April, when over 300 trees bloom in soft pink hues. The grounds also include Fukuju Kaikan, a former guesthouse from the early 20th century that blends Japanese and Western architectural elements and is set within a tranquil garden. Just a short walk away, visitors can explore the Hiroshima Prefectural Museum of History, which delves into the region’s feudal and cultural past, and the Fukuyama Museum of Art, home to both Japanese and Western works. With its combination of rich history, seasonal beauty, and nearby cultural attractions, Fukuyama Castle offers an immersive and rewarding experience for travelers of all interests.