Hiroshima Castle is the Big Fish of Japanese Castles

Hiroshima Castle was originally named after a fish.

It was first constructed in 1591 before there was even a “Hiroshima” to speak of. A flat land castle mainly used as a seat of administration for the surrounding area, it was known as Carp Castle(Rijo).

With a five-story main keep and grounds that were 1km in diameter, it became the center of the then newly named Hiroshima.

However any grandeur that Carp Castle may have had is an unfortunate thing of the past.

It is, as far as I know, the only castle that has ever been destroyed by an atomic bomb. Actually used for military purposes during WWII, it suffered the same fate as the rest of city due to the Hiroshima bomb.

Not one to be kept down, Rijo was rebuilt 13 years after the end of the war.

As with most reconstructed Japanese castles, the interior of this ferro-concrete version is a museum, albeit a very interesting one.

There is information on not only the history of Rijo itself but also about life inside the castle.

Plus you can find out about:

• The lifestyles of the samurai and townsfolk
• Different types of castle architecture
• Hiroshima Castle's construction
• The hierarchical system of feudal Japan
• The history of Edo period Hiroshima
• Local festivals

Naturally there are also displays of armor, weapons and very cool models depicting ancient Hiroshima.

On the top floor is an Observation deck that provide sweeping panoramic views of the city.

All in all, if you have a spare hour or two while in Hiroshima, Rijo is well worth the visit.

Opening Hours:

9:00am - 6:00pm

Closed:

5:00pm  weekdays December - February

December 29th - January 2nd

Entry:

¥360 Adults

¥180 Children