Hiroshima Castle
About Hiroshima Castle
Concrete reconstruction of the 1589 castle destroyed in the atomic bombing.
Originally built in 1589, Hiroshima Castle was once a stronghold and remains a great example of a castle built on the plain rather than a hill. However, the original castle was destroyed in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and what stands today is a ferro-concrete replica built in 1958.
The interior of the five story keep has recently been restored and renovated into a history museum. Each floor offers a number of displays about the history of Hiroshima, the castle and the reconstruction. Reaching the top floor offers panoramic views of the grounds and the city.
A wide moat wraps around the castle grounds, which have been turned into a pleasant park hiding scattered ruins of former buildings. A few buildings in the Ninomaru - the second circle of defence - have been reconstructed using original techniques and materials, including the main gate, a long storehouse, and two turrets. Visitors can enter these to find out more information on their history and reconstruction.
The grounds are free to enter, with only the main keep requiring a ticket.