Located in Hiroshima Prefecture’s Fukuyama City, Fukuyama Castle has a long history stretching back nearly 400 years. For a stellar reconstruction of an Edo-period castle as well as great views of the surrounding cityscape, make a trip out to Fukuyama Castle.
Planned in 1619 and completed in 1622, Fukuyama Castle is considered one of Japan’s top 100 castles. Built at the beginning of the Edo period on top of a hill measuring 400 meters long and 200 meters wide, the castle was constructed at the orders of Mizuno Katsunari, a relative of the founder of the reigning shogun of Japan, the powerful Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Fukuyama Castle remained in the hands of the Mizuno clan until the end of the century when it changed hands to the Abe clan, one of the oldest and most influential in Japanese history. As Japan opened to the outside world and the Meiji Restoration commenced in the second half of the 19th century, much of the castle was demolished except the main keep and a handful of structures. Meanwhile, the grounds were transformed into a public park.
During the Second World War, the remaining parts of the castle were destroyed in the Allied air raids. The early postwar decades were a period of resurgence for Fukuyama Castle as several initiatives led by both the government and the public helped to bring the site back to its former glory.
The Castle
Photo by: PIXTA/Rise
Today, Fukuyama Castle consists of a five-tiered keep surrounded by several defensive turrets and the main gate, Sugitetsu Gomon. From the top of the keep, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the park and city below. The public park founded over a hundred years ago, continues to attract crowds, especially during the spring when cherry blossoms come into bloom. With over 300 trees planted, including yoshino, sato and wild cherry tree varieties, the park is a must-see for visitors making a trip to the city in late March and early April.
The Museum
The interior of the castle houses a museum that details the history of the immense structure and the city in which it resides. Visitors will be able to take part in many interactive learning experiences. Try out the horse race simulator which uses a combination of projection screens and a model horse to ride on. Pick up a toy matchlock gun and test your aim with the European firearm introduced to Japan in the 16th century.
