A ropeway connects to Iwakuni Castle, with the lower station just a 5-minute walk from Kintaikyo Bridge. From the upper station, it’s another 5-minute walk to the castle.
Buses run to Kintaikyo Bridge from Iwakuni Station (15 minutes, 300 yen, every 10-20 minutes) and Shin-Iwakuni Station (15 minutes, 350 yen, with 1-2 buses per hour).
5
Iwakuni Castle
1 of 9 in Iwakuni
Iwakuni Castle (岩国城, Iwakunijō) is perched atop Mount Shiroyama, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Iwakuni City and the Nishiki River, flowing through the valley 200 meters below. Originally constructed in 1608, the castle was strategically placed to leverage the natural terrain for defensive purposes, making it an ideal fortress. Although the original structure was dismantled just seven years after its completion in 1615, the castle’s legacy endures in its reconstruction, which was finalized in 1962. This modern version faithfully recreates the original architecture, allowing visitors to step back in time while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
The castle's four-story keep houses an intriguing museum that showcases artifacts from Japan's feudal era, including samurai swords, armor, and displays detailing the castle’s history. Additionally, the museum highlights the famous Kintaikyo Bridge and other notable bridges throughout Japan, enriching visitors' understanding of the region's architectural and cultural heritage. With its mix of historical significance and stunning views, Iwakuni Castle offers a unique experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Hours and Fees
Iwakuni Castle
- Opening hours
-
9:00 to 16:45 (entry until 16:30); on the last weekday of most months, the ropeway does not operate until 14:00
- Closed
-
Irregular closures due to ropeway maintenance, including a prolonged annual closure early in the year (from January 14 to February 10).
- Entrance fee
-
270 yen (castle only)
560 yen (ropeway round trip)
970 yen (castle, ropeway and Kintaikyo Bridge)
Getting there
Nearby
Reviews
There are no reviews