Iwakuni

For 300 years until the Meiji Restoration, Iwakuni flourished as a castle town. Today the Iwakuni Castle, originally built by feudal lord Hiroie Kikkawa in 1600, overlooks the graceful Kintai Bridge constructed 73 years later. Atyphoon swept the Kintai away in 1950, but its replica still stands; beautifully constructed of five wooden arches on stone pillars, in sight of Mr. Shiroyama. At this site, some 3000 cherry trees bloom every year, and the anual Kintai Bridge Festival is morant fishing is enjoyed at the Kintai Bridge. Besides its natural beauty, Iwakuni is a town rich in history.

The kikko Park formerly the residence of feudal lord Kikkawa and his family, serves as a public park. The city has 60 temples, including Dosenji which has a 300-year-old plum tree that blossoms splendidly in spring. The city has a long history and several houses have been maintained in their original appearance to conjure up image of bygone days.

Transportation:
    Take the JR train (Sanyo line) from Hiroshima (about 45
    minutes), and take the bus for Kintai Bridge (15 minutes).