Hiroshima Castle is a five-story castle originally built in 1592. It was designated a National Treasure in 1931 but was tragically destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945. A replica was rebuilt in 1958, restoring the castle’s historic presence in the city.
Also known as Carp Castle, the name comes from the abundant supply of carp in its surrounding moat. Carp, or koi as they are known in Japanese, are considered symbols of luck and prosperity. Closely related to goldfish, koi were favoured by Japanese royalty as ornamental fish for their moats. The fish remains popular in Japan today, with even Hiroshima’s local baseball team adopting the name Hiroshima Carp.
The castle houses a museum and a small gift shop, while its beautiful gardens provide a peaceful retreat from the city. The gardens are a classic example of Japanese landscaping and are particularly stunning in April, when 350 cherry trees burst into bloom, making it a prime spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).
Inside, the museum features a fascinating collection of ancient relics from the Edo period (1603–1868), offering insight into the history of Hiroshima and its feudal past. Visitors can also enjoy a viewing platform on the fifth floor, which provides a breathtaking panorama of the city.
Hiroshima Castle is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from both Hiroshima’s city centre and the A-Bomb Dome, making it an easy and worthwhile stop on any visit to the city.
