Windmill was ok... But the slide was awesome

An interesting place to visit if you enjoy nature and authentic Japanese culture. This park is pretty large then you will find yourself walking a lot so I recommend comfortable shoes. Unfortunately, you can tell the area isn't maintained that well. A lot of the structures are dirty and becoming rundown.

Big wide park with a few nice nooks. Beautiful with the sakura and tulips blooming.

There are playground, huge field to play around and a windmill at the top of the hill. Flowers are everywhere.

Nice place for family. Kids enjoy playing and running

(Translated by Google) I took a walk in the park, and although it is spacious and well-maintained, it is quite a long walk from the parking lot. It has a large lawn area and is a great place to spend time with your family, but I felt that the elderly and families with small children were hesitant to use it. In order to make more effective use of these facilities, I thought it would be possible to create roads for management vehicles so that users could easily get to the facilities. (Original) 公園を散歩しましたが、せっかく広くて綺麗に整備されてますが、駐車場から歩く距離がかなりあります。芝生広場など広くて家族で過ごすと幸せな時間を過ごせますが、高齢者や小さな子連れは利用をためらってしまうように感じました。これだけの施設をもっと有効活用できるように管理車両が通る道路などを整備して利用者が施設の近くまで楽に来れるようにできないかと思いました。

(Translated by Google) I visited because I heard that there were a lot of azaleas in bloom, but there weren't that many blooming, and there were lots of events and food stalls, so it was very lively. All the parking lots at the park were full and we had to walk quite a bit to get to the park. (Original) つつじがたくさん咲いているとの事で訪れましたが特別たくさん咲いているわけでなく催し物や屋台が沢山あり賑わっていました。公園の駐車場は全て満車で公園までかなり歩きました。

This is a great little zoo in north Shunan City. They have a fair variety of animals to see. Some of the exhibits are quite old, but they are in the midst of renovations, and I am excited to see what the zoo will look like when it is all ready. The red pandas building and bird area is beautiful. We even saw some nesting birds and their eggs! There is a food court available as well as restrooms. The building with the red pandas also has a small reading nook with kids books. For an extra fee kids can have the opportunity to feed the penguins.

One of the best hanami place. However, the animals were rather ordinary. We were expecting more hands-on experience and a bit disappointed not getting to see the polar bear. The hippo's house was so small and hope that the renovation will make great ease to the lonely hippo.

Love this place, the last time I was here was three years ago. The monkeys are my favorite, specifically Shudarou and the other monkeys on monkey mountain. You should visit this place if you have the time, great place for families also.

Small zoo with a few very old animal habitats. It looks like they are in the process of modernizing. The plus side is you get very close to the animals. The downside is the tiny habitats are pretty sad. The price is right though: ¥600 for adults and ¥300 for kids.

It's a nice zoo for kids I would say. The small size of the zoo makes it hard for me as an adult to look at the animals because some of them look like they're going to go mad all cramped up. Fortunately, it appears the zoo is expanding a bit and renovating. There's a place to eat, a place for some interactive fun with animals and a photo machine that's zoo themed. Staff were friendly and helpful. Zoo is walkable from the station but there's also a cheap bus service.

Animals in smaller cages then the main enclosure and a lot of construction work but not for the animals. That’s the point of the zoo I believe is to see the happy animals.

Most depressing zoo I’ve ever been to. Almost all the animals need to see a vet. Birds feathers aren’t growing, bears are missing teeth, there’s a cage where you throw food at monkeys, all the cages are to small and the water is dirty

If you seen the pictures, it looks like a great ride. Well the first tunnel is. However, that make only 20% of the ride. The rest was really boring. Then you have to ride back through the same tunnel to get back to you car.

I took the Nishikigawa Seiryu historic rail line to Nishikicho eki from Iwakuni Station. A nice, relaxing trip, perfect if you're a train buff or enjoying the spring colors, mountains, sakura, or beautiful river scenes from a slow-moving diesel rail train. There are many tunnels along the route, but otherwise travels through farmland between small hamlets along the beautiful Nishiki River. I didn't have more than 15 minutes at this station, which appears to be original to this location and certainly a wonderful, small, showa-era Japan rail station. I hope they don't lose the line, though; There weren't many people on the two car train. It concerns me. Many akiya along the route, but I was thankful that the conductor slowed the train to allow for beautiful sights along the route. The old stations along the way are amazing to see.

(Translated by Google) I took the Nishikigawa Seiryu Line. Before I got on it, I thought it was just a local line in the red, but after going back and forth between Nishikicho and Iwakuni, I became a fan. The scenery from the train window was great, and I never got bored during the ride. The clear stream of the Nishiki River, the long submerged bridge, Kajika Falls (there are two more waterfalls), etc. I think the impression of the train window changes depending on the season. I would love to ride this next time when the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are beautiful. Good luck on the Nishikigawa Seiryu Line❗️ (Original) 錦川清流線に乗りました。 乗る前は単なる赤字ローカル線だと思っていましたが、錦町⇄岩国を往復したらすっかりファンになってしまいました。 車窓からの景色もよく、乗車中飽きることがありませんでした。 錦川の清流、長走の沈下橋、かじかの滝（あと２つ滝がある）などなど。 季節によって車窓の印象も変わると思います。 今度、桜や紅葉がきれいな時にぜひ乗ってみたいです。 錦川清流線、がんばれ❗️

(Translated by Google) Nishikicho Station is the terminus of the Nishikigawa Seiryu Line of the third-sector Nishikigawa Railway. It is the largest station on the Nishikigawa Railway and is also one with staff on hand. If you go down the stairs from the platform, you will find the station ticket counter on the right and the waiting room on the left. The waiting room is comfortable and air-conditioned, and they also sell souvenirs. As you leave the station, the Tocotoco Train ticket counter is in the building on the right. If you go left, you will find stairs that take you to the second floor, where you will find a restaurant and railway museum. Although it is not large, it has an exhibition of photos from the days of the Japanese National Railways. The Tocotoco Train platform is just one minute to the right as soon as you leave the station. Be sure to check out the combination of the Nishikigawa Seiryu Line, Tocotoco Train, and SOZU Onsen!! (Original) 3セクの錦川鉄道、錦川清流線の終点である「錦町駅」、錦川鉄道の駅では１番大きく、そして職員さんも居られる駅ですかね・・。 ホームから階段を降りて行くと、右側に駅窓口があり、左側に待合室があります。 待合室はエアコンで空調が整えられてあり快適な室内ですし、お土産なども取り扱っておられますね。 駅を出ますと、右側の建屋がとことこトレインの切符売り場です。　左側に進むと階段が有りますので２階に行くと飲食店と鉄道資料館があり、大きくはないですが国鉄時代の写真も展示されてますね。 とことこトレイン乗り場は、駅を出て直ぐに右方向1分です。 錦川清流線 + とことこトレイン + SOZU温泉 のセットで、是非！！

(Translated by Google) This is the last stop on the Seiryu Line. I got on at Negasa Station to take the Toko Toko Train, and the hospitality of the station staff was fantastic. The station has clean toilets and a convenience store. Tickets are cash only, but the ticket gates still use a rare type of ticket cutter, and the staff said, "You can do it yourself," and the smooth feel is addictive. When the last train departed at 4pm, the station staff came to see me off with flags, making this a truly wonderful railway! Next time, I'd like to take the first train from Iwakuni! (Original) 清流線の終点です。トコトコトレインを利用するために根笠駅から乗りましたが、駅員さんたちのおもてなしが最高です。駅には綺麗なトイレや売店があります。切符は現金のみですが、未だ珍しい改札鋏だの切符切りのタイプで駅員さんが「自分でやっていいよ」と言ってくれて、サックリとした感触がやみつきになります。16時の終電時は駅員の皆さんが旗を持ってお見送りに来てくれて本当に素晴らしい鉄道です！今度は岩国から始発で乗りたいです！

(Translated by Google) This is my first visit in 41 years. The last time I visited was when it was the Iwahi Line, but this time I'm collecting station stamps as the Nishikigawa Railway. It's a difficult route, far from the big city, but I think the company is making a good effort to make it a tourist route. (July 2025) (Original) 41年ぶりの再訪、前回の国鉄岩日線時代は駅スタンプ集めで今回は錦川鉄道としての鉄印集め。大都市から遠く苦しい路線立地だけど観光路線としての企業努力はシッカリしてると思うが。(2025.7)

(Translated by Google) This is the terminal station on the Nishikigawa Seiryu Line. 🚉 It feels like a rural local train station nestled deep in the mountains. 🌲 From here, you can hop on the electric trolley called the Tocotoco Train and head further inland to SOZU Onsen! (Original) 錦川清流線の終点の駅です🚉 山の中にある田舎ローカル線の駅という感じです🌲 ここからとことこトレインという電動トロッコに乗ればさらに奥、SOZU温泉まで行くことが出来ます！

Loved exploring the old samurai homes, watching the koi in the fountain, and seeing the White Snake Museum. The cherry blossoms in spring and golden ginkgos in fall are breathtaking, and the snack stalls near the entrance are perfect for a quick treat. It’s relaxing, historic, and photogenic—ideal for a half-day outing. Just bring water in summer and allow time for the castle ropeway too. ⸻ ✅ Tips • Visit early morning in spring or autumn to avoid crowds. • Bring a picnic blanket — the fountain-garden area is perfect for relaxing. • Combine your visit with Kintai Bridge and the Iwakuni Castle ropeway for a fuller experience.

Kikko park is a beautiful location to visit, it features Kintia Bridge, Kikko Village, Iwakuni Castle, and other sites. The park hold much history within it and is a great place to spend a few hours with the family or hiking around.

A fairly large park situated within the vicinity of Kintaikyo. The views in spring are pretty good but the crowds, even on a weekday, can be quite bad.

I love coming here. Every season is different and beautiful. My toddler loves visiting the cormorants and playing in the splash pad. There are several restaurants and ice cream spots in and around the area as well as souvenir shops by the bridge. There are also a couple of museums in the park. I love that such an amazing space is in our city.

A scenic park that contains many interesting shrines, temples and museums in and around it. Some nice fountains and ponds along with grass areas and statues complete the park setting.

I would agree with the review that said it's a great date location! There are plenty of fountains, pretty trees, ice cream and food vendors, and historical sites all packed into this one area. There is a big pool-like fountain in the middle where kids (and adults) are allowed to swim so if you're coming on a hot day, prepare a swimsuit or shorts so you can take a dip. Some kids even brought floaties. On the Kintai bridge side, there's a walkway with 3-4 soft served ice cream shops and a few restaurants that serve the local specialty: Yamaguchi sushi. It's a thick square of rice with lots of toppings, it kind of reminds me of lasagna in a way. There's also a restaurant that sells lotus root noodles (Yamaguchi is famous for its lotus root/renkon). If you don't speak/read Japanese, some vendors have English menus that you can point to if worst comes to worst, but they're very helpful and understanding! I would recommend spending 2-3 hours in the area just to hit up all the sites, and while there's plenty of drink vending machines around, it's probably best if you bring your own water. It can be expensive!

Park with big open space. There are quite a few plum and cherry blossom trees as well as a place where you see cormorants being kept outside the cormorant fishing season. I was lucky to be able to see them fed fish to these birds.

We took the cablecar up, the views are spectacular on a clear day, there's also a museum inside the castle with a good collection of samurai swords and armour. For me it was worth the trip for the views alone

Iwakuni Castle was an absolute joy to visit. After leaving the ropeway, we walked towards the castle through a thickly wooded forest, reminiscent of a fantasy or anime film. We had pre-purchased tickets for the castle as part of a package that included access to the Kintaikyo Bridge and the rope way, so we passed through without issue (find these tickets for sale at Kintaikyo Bridge). There were multiple swords and armour sets on display, and the view from the top of the castle was magnificent, with a cool breeze that blowed through the windows. A very quiet, unhurried, and far-from-the-crowds experience that is different from so many other locations in Japan.

Definitely out of the way of the crowds but easy to get to, just takes a little time. We took the ropeway up but I guess there are trails up too. I'm glad we went but it isn't as impressive as some of the more popular castles. But almost worth it to see a castle without the crowds. And seeing the bridge on the way also is an added plus. I'd do it again unless I was very pressed in time.

Iwakuni Castle, perched atop Mount Shiroyama, is a compact but rewarding stop in Yamaguchi Prefecture. The castle itself is a 1960s concrete reconstruction of the 1608 original, yet it effectively showcases the region’s samurai-era military history through detailed exhibits on the Kikkawa clan—particularly Kikkawa Hiroie, the daimyo who built the first fortress—and the strategic role of the Nishiki River defenses. Armor, weapons, and panoramic dioramas bring the era to life. A single ¥950 ticket bundles ropeway (cable car), castle entry, and Kintaikyo Bridge, making logistics seamless. The four-minute ropeway ride deposits you steps from the keep, ideal for quick 45-minute visits. From the observation deck, sweeping views span the Seto Inland Sea, the five-arched Kintaikyo, and the town below—especially striking at sunrise or during cherry-blossom season. Staying at a nearby onsen for hot springs, sauna and fugu sashimi - (a 10-minute taxi ride) and driving 15 minutes to Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport the next morning turned the visit into a relaxed, efficient layover. Perfect for travelers seeking history, scenery, and convenience in one compact package.

Iwakuni Castle sits high atop Mount Shiroyama and delivers not only a slice of history but also one of the best panoramic views you’ll find in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Originally built in 1608 and later reconstructed, the castle today serves more as a museum and lookout, but it doesn’t fall short on charm. Getting to the top is part of the fun. From Kintaikyo Bridge, we took a short walk to the ropeway station located in Kikko Park. The cable car ride was only about 3 minutes but offered a sweeping view of the Nishiki River and the iconic wooden bridge. Once at the top, we walked another 10 minutes along a shaded path to the castle. There’s also a hiking trail if you’re up for the climb. Inside the castle, you’ll find displays of samurai armor, weapons, and a fascinating model of Kintaikyo Bridge. The best part? The top floor observation deck, which gave us a panoramic view of Iwakuni city, the river, and on a clear day, even out toward the Seto Inland Sea. It’s a peaceful spot with very few crowds when we visited. Entry fees were reasonable and combo tickets covering the castle, ropeway, and bridge made it a value-packed outing. If you’re in the area—especially visiting from Hiroshima—Iwakuni Castle makes for a relaxing and rewarding detour.

Brilliant place for a peep into Japanese lifestyles back in the ages. Even though this castle is a reconstruction, its wonderful to admire the architecture, the artifacts and many different swords and implements of war. Must visit.

Beautiful castle with stunning views!” Took the ropeway up—fast and scenic. The castle museum was interesting (armor, swords, and a Kintai Bridge model), and the summit lookout provided breathtaking vistas of Iwakuni, the river, and even the distant islands. It’s a short visit (about 60 min total), but packed with charm. Combine it with Kintai Bridge and Kikko Park for a full morning outing. Fairly small museum, and castle’s a modern rebuild, but totally worth it for the view and history fix! ⸻ ✅ Tips for Visitors • Combine your ticket with Kintai Bridge and the ropeway for savings. • Visit early or late to beat peak times—ropeway tends to get busy midday. • Bring a camera for excellent photo spots of the bridge from above. • Add a visit to Kashiwabara Art Museum at the ropeway base if you’re into historic swords and traditional art. ⸻ Bottom Line: Iwakuni Castle delivers a scenic, accessible, and enriching historic experience. Though a modern reconstruction, it excels in atmosphere, views, and strategic location—making it a must-do after crossing the iconic Kintai Bridge.

It was an unexpected surprise visit and it was extremely beautiful to see. Cross over did cost but not very expensive and its return walk ticket. I can only imagine when things are in bloom or in the fall how more beautiful this bridge and the village across it is. It was very peaceful and quiet. Enjoyable site!

I made a special trip from Hiroshima to Kintai Bridge, and it didn’t disappoint — a beautiful wooden structure. There’s an entrance fee to access the bridge, which covers a round trip. Every step on the bridge lets you feel the unique charm of its wooden architecture. Beneath it, the clear river flows over stone slabs, with many families picnicking, playing in the water, and others fishing. When leaving, you might consider heading to Shin-Iwakuni Station. The Shinkansen can get you back to Hiroshima in about half an hour, but be sure to check the train schedule.

This bridge is a little out of the way, but it is a beautiful bridge with beautiful surroundings with stunning architecture. When we were there, the crowds weren't too bad so it was nice to see a beautiful spot that wasn't too crowded. There's a bus that will take you straight here from downtown which is easy to catch so even though it's out of the way it's easy to get to.

Beautiful History, Scenic Views, and a Little Parental Awareness Needed Kintaikyo Bridge is without a doubt one of Japan’s most iconic wooden bridges and being here in person really drives that home. Built originally in 1673 during the Edo period, it’s famous for its five graceful wooden arches that span the Nishiki River. Designed to withstand frequent flooding, the structure has been rebuilt and maintained through the centuries, with the most recent full reconstruction completed in 1953 after a typhoon destroyed the previous version. Today, it remains a symbol of Iwakuni’s history and craftsmanship. From a visitor’s perspective, crossing the bridge is an experience worth savoring. I especially loved that you can purchase a ticket that allows multiple crossings perfect if you want to go back and forth without feeling rushed. Once across, you can take the ropeway up to Iwakuni Castle on the mountaintop, which adds even more to the outing. The combination of the river, the bridge, the rope car, and the castle gives you a full-day mini adventure in one spot. The only downside for me was safety awareness. While the bridge is sturdy, the railings are quite low, and I noticed several parents letting their children run freely across it. It’s easy to see how a slip could turn dangerous, so a little more attentiveness would go a long way in keeping everyone safe. Visitor Tips: • Try to come early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds. • Pair your bridge crossing with the ropeway and castle visit for a complete experience. • Spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (fall foliage) are particularly stunning here. Overall, Kintaikyo Bridge blends centuries-old engineering, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of adventure. Just watch your step and your kids as you enjoy one of Iwakuni’s most treasured landmarks.

Very worthwhile visit. Well maintained ancient bridge, great for taking photos, definitely an attraction cannot be missed if u came to Hiroshima.

Everything you’d imagine on this wonderful bridge. Good food on each side. It’s a little expensive to cross the bridge so maybe do it just once. The surrounding area is beautiful and you can see the castle from it.

parking is 300 yen and return ticket if you want to walk the bridge is 310 yen. you will feel relax and peaceful in the area. can't imagine Sakura and/or red leaf season. must be beautiful

We stopped here for a late lunch. There is a restaurant on the second floor. There are plenty of windows to take in the gorgeous view. The fried oysters were delicious, but the rest of the set was okay. This was the first time we had used the ticket ordering system and the staff was kind enough to help us use the machine (insert the money first and then select your dishes). There is a gift shop and market downstairs along with an ice cream place and several more small restaurants on the premises. There is also a small island next door that you can walk out to at the right time of day.

Nice place to stop and have a bite to eat. Motorcycle parking on the front and lots of parking out back. Small shops and benches to rest. Also has restrooms.

Great rest stop with plenty of parking and a small shop that sells local products, produce, foods and sweets. There is a Japanese teishoku restaurant on the second floor, and a strip mall filled with different food vendors. Great place to stop by while enjoying the beautiful drive through Oshima Island.

We loved here! They had all kind a local goods and people were so friendly too. We had a nice walk on the harbor too. This is must place to stop by definitely.

A variety of different restaurants and shops for souvenirs, snacks and other items. Great stop while traveling Oshima.

Love this place

Fun little place to see and eat lunch. Beautiful view of the bay.

The road was a bit hard to drive, very narrow and also a single lane. Not much parking tho. The place was beautiful and well preserved. You need to pay for every place you visit. So we just choose one place first to see if we would like to continue the others. In the end we just visited one.

The condition of the buildings are above average but not exceptional. They have retained many of the original elements (one room even has the original tatami mats). The english audio tour is top-notch. The tea pavillion over the water is a amazing. If you come towards the end of the day, you can relax in the pavillion without the crowds. I was able to buy a bat-themed garden seal :)

Here, you can enjoy traditional Japanese gardens and architecture. The Japanese buildings feature various ingenious designs, and we can enjoy learning their secrets through the audio guide. The atmosphere changes with the seasons, making it a place you'll want to visit multiple times throughout the year. The admission fee is 550 yen, but if you're also planning to visit nearby attractions like Ōzu Castle, the combo set ticket offers a better deal. The plants within the garden are extremely valuable, and even those that may look like weeds have taken over 100 years to grow. For this reason, when walking through the garden, be sure to stay on the stone paths.

Wonderful old building with a lovely garden. When there are few/no people on a fine day it feels so lovely being there and you feel like you could live there forever. I recommend buying the tickets for all three places as long as you have around 3 hours.

Great place, the staff is very friendly and even offered us free postcard!

Very nice villa, feel like in another time. Spectacular views and atmosphere. The lady is very nice and explained everything to me, showing me the light tricks and the decorations meanings. 500¥ per adult and 800¥ combined with the Ozu castle (save 200).

A masterpiece of architecture overlooking the picturesque Hiji river.This was built around 1907, by a Japanese merchant. The design which resembling Kyoto imperial villas such as Katsura Rikyu and Shugakuin Rikyu took 10 years to make. Around 4 years with a number of 9000 artisans were required to construct it. It's only a 30 minutes walk from Ozu castle and one of the best tourist actractions in Ozu. Staff was friendly.

(Translated by Google) Exhibition of works I wanted to see A deep worldview expressed in blue It will be sucked in The facial expressions of the whales look like they are alive. The star shining behind the two swans changes its expression depending on the viewing angle. If you get close, it's a sculpture. It's a very delicate work. [Really important things don't necessarily have a form, and I think that's where the difficulty and fun of art lies] Yurukawafu's words Cake set at the cafe on the way home Meissen plates are beautiful (Original) 見たかった作品展 青色で表現された奥行のある世界観 吸い込まれていきます クジラ達の表情がまるで生きているよう ２羽の白鳥の後ろで輝く星星が見る角度で表情を変えます 近付けば彫刻　とても繊細な作品です ［本当に大事なものに形があるとは限りません　そこに芸術の難しさと面白さがあるように思いました］ ゆるかわふうさんの言葉 帰りにはカフェでケーキセット マイセンのお皿が綺麗

(Translated by Google) It's a very nice museum🖼. Meissen, Galle, etc.✨️No matter how many times I go there, I never get tired of it. This time, I went to see cardboard art- ̗̀📦 ̖́-. The deadline is September 23, 2020, and I would definitely like to go to the next one from September 28th 🍀*゜ I went right away 🙋‍♀️ Added a post 📷✨️ The parking lot 🅿️ is in front of the museum. It's right nearby and easy to park 🚗 (Original) とても、素敵な美術館🖼です。 マイセン、ガレなど✨️本当に何度行っても飽きません。 この度は、ダンボール美術- ̗̀📦 ̖́-という事もあり足を運びました。 令和6年9月23日までで、次の9月28日からのも是非行かせていただきます🍀*゜ 早速行きましたので🙋‍♀️投稿追加📷✨️ 駐車場🅿️は、美術館前。すぐ近くにありますし停めやすいです🚗

(Translated by Google) I headed to Wood One Museum to see Osamu Watanabe's sweet art. I drove straight along the highway and found myself further into the countryside than I had imagined, but since it was summer, the contrast between the sky and the mountains was beautiful! Hydrangeas were in bloom, even though it was August. The exhibition space is small, but it's a relaxing place, surrounded by nature. Drop a visit while you're out for a drive! Don't worry, there's also a restaurant next door where you can eat. (Original) 渡辺おさむ氏のスイーツアートを目的にウッドワン美術館へ。 高速道路をひたすら進み、想像していたより田舎の中にありましたが、夏なので空と山のコントラストがすごく綺麗！ 8月だと言うのに紫陽花も咲いていました。 展示スペースは小さめですが、自然も含めてホッとする場所です。 ドライブがてらどうぞ！ 隣に食事が出来るお店もあるのでご安心を。

(Translated by Google) I went to see Danboru Monogatari. Until September 23, 2024. Although it is cardboard art with a free image, I felt there was something stoic about her work. I had a strawberry smoothie at the cafe, and as usual, I enjoyed Gare and Meissen. (Original) ダンボール物語みにいきました。2024.9.23まで。自由なイメージのダンボールアートだけど、彼女の作品には何かストイックなものを感じた。カフェでイチゴスムージーをいただき、いつものように、ガレとマイセン楽しませていただきました。

(Translated by Google) I came to see an exhibition of works by Fuyuki Maehara. When it was called the Juken Museum of Art, I used to come from time to time to see the Meissen and Galle collections, but I haven't had the chance to go there lately, so it's been a while since I've been there. I think the environment is better than before and I was able to enjoy the work more slowly. Looking at the event schedule, I see that there are many attractive exhibitions, so I plan to visit them frequently from now on. (Original) 「前原冬樹」さんの作品展を見に来ました。「住建美術館」という名前の時は、マイセンやガレのコレクションを見に時々来ていたのですが、最近はなかなか行く機会がなく久々の訪問です。 以前より、環境がよくなり、ゆっくりと作品を楽しむことができたように思います。イベントスケジュールを見ると、魅力的な作品展がいろいろとあるので、これから、まめに足を運ぼうと思います。

(Translated by Google) I've been curious about it since the days when it was renamed the Juken Art Museum, and finally decided to visit it. I arrived at the Yoshiwa Interchange while admiring the autumn leaves on the Chugoku Expressway. I arrived at the Woodwan Museum of Art, overlooking rice paddies and fields, and was greeted by its small and cute appearance. This special exhibition mainly features Ejoe's drawings of the faces of Eastern and Western painters using flowing brushstrokes, and the deformed works of Van Gogh, Renoir, and Tsuguharu Fujita, which are housed in the museum, particularly caught my eye. Personally, something worth mentioning is Ryusei Kishida's "Reiko statue," which I've always disliked because I thought it was "creepy." However, I was impressed by the radiant skin of the real thing, the dreamy eyes despite the single layer, and the precise reproduction of the crocheted shawl, making it a masterpiece. In addition to paintings, it was a museum that made you feel rich, with glass crafts from Galle, porcelain from Meissen, and Satsuma ware with luxurious gold brocade. (Original) 改名前の住建美術館時代から気になっていて、やっと思い立って訪問しました。中国自動車道の紅葉も愛でつつ吉和インターでおります。稲田や畑を横目に見つつ到着したウッドワン美術館はちんまりとしており、実に可愛らしい佇まいで迎えてくれました。今回の特別展は、江上越 氏が東西画家の顔を流れるような筆致で描いたものが主で、当館に収蔵されているゴッホ、ルノワール、藤田嗣治をデフォルメした作品が特に目を引きました。個人的に特筆すべきは以前から「気味が悪いなぁ」と好きではなかった岸田劉生の"麗子像"。しかし実物の 輝くような肌・一重でありながら夢見るような瞳・かぎ針編み肩掛けの精緻な模写など、なるほど名作であると感嘆しました。絵画の他にガレのガラス工芸品やマイセンの磁器、金襴豪華な薩摩焼など豊かな気持ちにさせてくれる美術館でした。

(Translated by Google) I went back for the first time in a while to see "Yurukawafu no Sekai". Although it is located in the countryside, far from the city, it often holds quite interesting exhibitions. I went to this special exhibition because I wanted to see it with my own eyes, rather than photos, because it was a work that I could enjoy with light. It was great to see it live, as I could feel the abyss of the ocean and the depths of the night sky. (Original) 「ゆるかわふうの世界」を観るため久しぶりに再訪。市街地から離れたいわゆる田舎にありますが、結構面白い企画展がよくなされています。今回の企画展は光を味わう作品のため、写真などではなく、ぜひ生の目で見たいと思い行ってきました。海の深淵さや夜空の奥深さが感じられて、やはり生で見て良かった。

Stunning Seaside Views but Limited Amenities Shimontoshi Station offers one of the most breathtaking coastal views in Japan, especially on clear days—the vibrant blue sea against the rustic platform is picture-perfect. If you visit in summer, I highly recommend catching the sunset and stopping by a nearby shaved ice shop (just a short walk away) to enjoy the scenery leisurely. That said, the area is quite remote with few other attractions nearby, and taxis are hard to find. If you’re not driving, plan your trip carefully around the infrequent train schedule to avoid long waits. A nice touch: Staff members guide visitors during peak arrival times (to manage crowds) and even help take photos—they know all the best angles for stunning shots of the sea and trains! Tip: Best for a quick scenic stop rather than a long stay. Bring patience (and a timetable)!

This place was on my bucket list for 5 years and finally got to visit it. It’s a beautiful place, quiet and serene. Was mesmerised by the canopy covered train journey and the skilled motorman. 🛤️👨‍✈️🚉🌳

A nice train station by the sea. I came here after visiting the Cat Island at around 5pm. This certainly is a great place for photography, you just need a sunny day and clear skies and you’ve already got the ingredients for some nice shot. A train is scheduled for every hour, not the most convenient but time flies if you are busy taking photos loll

A beautiful sunset and a anime-like setting! One of the best phenomenal photo spots in Shikoku.

Upon my visit to this incredible place, the weather was cloudy and I wasn't sure if it was worth the journey due to the distance and limited train availability. However, I can confidently say that the experience was more than worth it. The scenic views were stunning, but what really made the visit special was the heartwarming presence of the elderly volunteers. They were extremely kind and helpful, taking the time to chat, explain the area, assist with photographs, and provide tips for photographers. As the train arrived, they even waved flags and hands, leaving a lasting positive impression. Despite the small size and lack of amenities, this has become one of my favorite places in Japan due to its immense charm and warmth.

the closest station to the sea in whole Japan. it is placed like 30-40 minutes drive from Matsuyama. it was really pleasant driving the road to the station with the good view on the sea. only for the station, do not expect much. it is just a station. but including the road, it is worth going.

A station next to the sea with superb view, no matter its noon, sunset, sunrise, or the dark. There's a lovely old couple (probably volunteers, unlikely JR staff), guiding tourist on the estimated time arrival of trains, the view, providing some explanation on the station, some guides on how to take pictures. They were extremely friendly, and helpful which mades our days better! There's crowd, since its such a beautiful scenery, so be ready on that. The only downside is the frequency of train was very little, which is understandable since not much commuters uses it.

During my trip to northern Shikoku, I had an unforgettable experience with たいこ, something I never expected. The passion of the instructor and the smiles of the Japanese people enjoying the drumming were truly remarkable. I really enjoyed it. I will never forget about the rhythm, which is Coffee-牛乳 -icecream-potatochips-chocolate. (There is another rhythm. 今日-は内子…) After the session, there was an impromptu performance that was really amazing. The sound of the drums resonating throughout the theater is still vivid in my memory. I am so grateful to those who provided this たいこ experience. I was so happy and enjoyed every moment of it. I heard that the 内子座 will be temporarily closed due to seismic retrofitting, but I definitely plan to visit again once it reopens.

A traditional kabuki theater that is still in operation. If there's no event going on you can tour the theater and see all the special passageways and tricks built into the stage. Despite its age the theater is still in beautiful shape and worth a visit if you're in the area!

Highly recommend visiting this, one of the most beautiful traditional places I’ve been in Japan, showing a traditional kabuki theatre that’s well maintained, and you can freely explore the theatre. You can even try the kabuki costumes. It’s such a beautiful place and it would be terrible to not come here.

Went there as it was highly recommended by a colleague to make a stop there on our way to Kyushu island. Unfortunately the place was closed, even though it showed as open in Maps. Seems to be very common in Japan to keep such kind of information not updated :( Bit of a frustrating experience due to Covid19, that's why I'm deducting one star for a less caring management. The over 100 years old traditional Kabuki theatre looks well maintained from the outside and we would have loved to get inside to see and learn more about kabuki..

It was a very interesting visit. I was lucky to visit while there was a school trip so they switched on the rotational scenario

A very old performing arts theatre. I was guided by a very nice lady who described the history and workings of this theatre. She told me that this cultural place will undergo a 4 year restoration work in September 2024.

The theater was built by wealthy patrons in the Taisho Period (early 20th century) for Kabuki and traditional Bunraku puppet performances when Uchiko was prosperous from the manufacturing of vegetable wax. The building is gorgeous, and boasts a rotating stage and trap doors for characters to appear and disappear. The tour through the faculty was excellent. I had a great time. And there are many other sights to see nearby, including the residences of some of those wealthy families. Performances are still held at Uchiko-za, including annually by the National Bunraku Puppet Theater from a Osaka.

Beautiful area to walk around. It was very calm and quiet when I went today.

Pretty preserved traditional town, with traditional homes to enter.

(Translated by Google) The old townscape in Uchiko Town. I've been to this place before, and it's a town I wanted to visit again. Personally, I'm not a big fan of old townscapes that feel strangely tampered with, but this townscape feels very natural. I also wanted to see the Uchiko-za Theatre, but unfortunately it was closed as of October 2025 for renovations. However, it was great to be able to wander around the old townscape. This is one townscape I can recommend. (Original) 内子町にある古い町並み。 この場所は以前訪れた事があり、もう一度来てみたかった町だ、 個人的に、変にいじくった感じがする古い町並みはあまりすきでは無いが、この町並みはすごく自然に感じる。 内子座も見学したかったが、2025年10月現在改修工事が行われていて休館中だったのが残念だったが、古い町並みをぶらぶら出来てとても良かった。 オススメ出来る町並みの一つ。

(Translated by Google) The townscape from the Edo period remains and stretches about 1km from north to south. It's about 1.5km including the Uchikoza Theater to the east and west. There are cafes, bakeries, and other eateries, general stores like candle shops, and buildings that can be visited (such as the Kamihoga family home), so it's a fun place to stroll around, and historical buildings have been repurposed as accommodation. There were quite a few foreign tourists, too. Parking is available for tourists near the Nehando Hall of Koshoji Temple on the north side. This is my second visit to Shikoku, following the townscape of Wakimachi in Tokushima Prefecture, and Shikoku still retains its good old culture. It's nice. (Original) 江戸時代～の街並み残っており範囲も南北1kmほどあり広いです。東西の内子座まで含めると1.5kmほどある。カフェ、ベーカリーなどの飲食店や蝋燭屋などの雑貨屋、見学可能な建築物(上芳我家など)あり散策楽しめ歴史的建築物を宿泊施設として再利用しています。インバウンドの人達も結構いました。駐車場は北側高昌寺ねはん堂近くに観光用であります。四国では徳島県脇町の街並みに続き2箇所目の訪問、四国は古き良き文化残ってますね。いいですね。

Restful peaceful village

(Translated by Google) A very beautiful, well-preserved village with unique architecture. Several monuments can be visited, including the residence that houses the Japanese wax museum. There is a ticket that allows you to visit this museum, as well as the old pharmacy and the Noh theater (closed for renovation for 4 years). (Original) Tres beaux village bien conservé avec une architecture particulière. Plusieurs monuments sont visitables dont la résidence qui accueille le musée de la cire japonaise. Il existe un billet qui permet de visiter ce musée ainsi que l’ancienne pharmacie et le théâtre no (fermé pour rénovation pendant 4 ans)

(Translated by Google) It was a beautiful townscape. There are elementary, middle and high schools, and I thought it was amazing that people still live here while preserving the scenery. Uchiko-za is undergoing renovations, so only the dressing rooms are open to the public. (Original) 素敵な街並みでした。小学校、中学校、高校とあり今でも皆さんが景観を守りながら住んでいることがすごいことだなと思いました。内子座、改修工事？のため見学は楽屋だけになっています。

Nice island for either daily tours or two days there. There's a nice central shopping street full of restaurants but especially shops. The visit to the shrine and the temple is recommended.

Breathtaking place with a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The iconic floating torii gate is stunning, especially during high tide when it appears to hover above the water. Walking around the island is a peaceful experience, with beautiful shrines, friendly deer, and scenic trails.

The island is famous for the Itsukushima shrine and the floating torii gate. But other than this, there is also the famous souvenir street near the shrine. You can buy souvenirs there and try local food. The place is famous for oysters farms, so grilled or raw oysters and oyster curry bread are local delicacies. Hiroshima is famous for lemons so any lemon drinks can be nice here. Miyajima is known for maple leaf shaped cakes.

Beautiful island! I came as a day excursion and I could enjoy my time here, but if you have the chance, maybe stay one night at one of the hotels so you can more easily avoid the masses of tourist that come as flocks and also enjoy the shine at night (seeing some pictures online, it looks beautiful with the lanterns and illuminations!). You may also have a better chance of interacting with deers, although you’re not supposed to feed these ones (at Nara you can). Such a beautiful place, near a city that has known such horrors in the past…

We took the long, scenic and an enjoyable bus ride going to the ferry station. Bus rides in my country is not always pleasant so I relished this one. We looked for a lunch spot first before heading off Miyajima. Next ride was a ferry boat-a short but equally enjoyable one with the mountain and sea views. The island itself deserved half or even one whole day of exploration. There so many places to be visit, take pictures, buy souvenirs from, dine or simply sit and enjoy the nature with the deer. Upon entering the island, we were greeted by the deer gently resting along the “streets”. According to Google : “Approximately 500 deer on Miyajima are tame and socialized to human presence, though they are still wild animals and can be aggressive in seeking food. They have learned to bow for snacks, which are available for purchase, and have also been known to eat paper maps and other human items” Food crackers for the deer are available for only JPY200 and this must be the only food to be fed to them. There’s enough space for everybody despite the numerous number of tourists in the island. There’s a recommended spot for taking a good picture with the Torii gate. The queue moves fast and it’s often the person at the back taking the pictures of the people in front-regardless of race :)

This was an island off Hiroshima called Miyajima. It was quaint and beautiful. Very picturesque. Well worth a visit.

I have nothing but excellent things to say about this island. After living in Japan for 6 years, this place was absolutely a highlight. Despite it being a tourist hotspot, it didn't feel particularly overcrowded on a Thursday afternoon. Very easily accessible by ferry, only a 10-minute ride and we used our Suica card for boarding, 300 yen one way. I was shocked to see how massive this place really was. There are a couple hiking trails that take 4 to 5 hours to complete, which we will come back to and didn't have the opportunity to do this time. Plenty of shopping streets for souvenirs, plenty of food vendors, and tons of deer also! We easily spent 3 to 4 hours here. I would recommend springtime for a visit where it's not too hot yet. We went on a day where it was about 16 Celsius with the sun out, and it was just perfect. Not too windy out either. Tons of foreign visitors here, me being one of them, so just take your time while transiting the streets because it's really easy to bump into people. Otherwise, what an amazing place to visit in a staple to our visit to Hiroshima!

🏯 Itsukushima Shrine Great Torii (Miyajima, Hiroshima) Review When I visited Itsukushima Shrine, the tide was low, and the water around the famous red Torii gate had receded. Even though it wasn’t surrounded by the sea at that moment, seeing this World Heritage Site up close was still a deeply moving experience. Standing before such a historically and spiritually significant place filled me with admiration and peace. Many visitors from around the world were there, all captivated by the shrine’s atmosphere and beauty. I also took a boat tour around the area, which offered a lovely view of the island and the Torii gate from the water. The nearby resort area was a wonderful place to relax — the air was fresh, the environment was clean, and the food was organic and delicious. The staff were very kind and welcoming, making the stay even more enjoyable. Overall, visiting the Itsukushima Shrine and its Great Torii was an unforgettable experience. Even during low tide, the site’s spiritual energy and natural beauty left a lasting impression. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hiroshima who wishes to connect with Japan’s culture, history, and nature in a peaceful setting.

Miyajima Island - what a fantastic place. We went there with our private tour guide which we took for a whole day in Hiroshima. You can get from Hiroshima to Miyajima Island by train ( JR ) and a ferry from the Harbor or if you are in a hurry you can get also a taxi to the Harbor , a little bit more pricey but more convenient. The trip with the ferry is quite a short one , maybe 10 - 12 min. By the way we paid also for the ferry with our Suica Card. So it was very convenient. Once we arrived to the Island a lot of deers welcomed us. Very nice creatures and they are considered sacred and are protected and they’re believed to be messengers of the Shinto Gods. We saw the main sites on the Island and it took us almost a half a day. Itsukushima Shrine is a wonderful one and also Daisho-in worth definitely a visit. We went just under the iconic giant Torii to take some lovely pictures. By the way the giant Toriiin the sea on Miyajima Island is called Otorii of Itsukushima , and this is the famous floating Torii which is in the water when high tides are in. We visited in the morning and it was a low tide , so we could walk underneath ant to take pictures with it also from the other side. We highly recommend to go early in the morning , low tide and less crowded. The Torii’s legs are not buried in the sand and he’s standing there by his own huge weight. Bottom line Miyajima Island is a very nice place to visit , beautiful landscape , many small shops on the narrow streets , great street food & restaurants. A highly recommended place for a half day trip from Hiroshima. Just bring comfortable walking shoes and hit the road.

Visiting Itsukushima Jinja Temple in Hiroshima was an unforgettable experience! As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple is absolutely stunning — especially the iconic “floating” torii gate over the water. The atmosphere is peaceful yet full of life. I loved meeting and gently petting the friendly deer that roam the island — such a unique experience! I also tried the pull-bicycle (rickshaw) service, and the driver was incredibly nice, helpful, and knowledgeable. He explained the history of the temple and made the whole visit even more special. A must-see spot in Japan for its beauty, culture, and amazing hospitality!

The island is definitely worth a visit. It is much bigger than I thought and although crowded with tourists, especially around the shrines, you can hike up the mountains and experience nature almost all by yourself. There are also many deer everywhere which are used to people and therefore let you come very close. The ferry service works perfectly and the transfer from the mainland only takes about 15 mins. I really enjoyed coming to Myajima island.

Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima is one of the most beautiful and spiritual places in Japan. The floating torii gate rising from the sea is absolutely breathtaking, especially during high tide when it seems to float on the water. Walking through the shrine’s wooden corridors with the sound of the waves underneath feels peaceful and sacred. I visited around sunset, and the golden light on the gate was unforgettable. A truly iconic and magical spot that captures the essence of Japan’s beauty.

Go early, it’s worth it. We were pretty much the first group off ferry and there were about 50 people here in early November . Plenty of time to take all pics and stroll through building. Never rushed. On way out a couple of hours later and it was packed and would have definitely impacted experience.

Absolutely beautiful. Not only does the torii glate "float", but this pavilion also seems to float! Come by for a history lesson and beautiful scenes. Very busy and a bit of a wait while you walk around, but it's a must-see.

A deeply moving and beautifully maintained park that honors the victims of the atomic bombing and promotes a powerful message of peace. The layout is thoughtful, with wide walkways, tranquil greenery, and key monuments like the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Flame, Peace Bell, and Children's Peace Monument all within walking distance. Every corner of the park invites quiet reflection, especially at the Cenotaph and the Peace Memorial Museum nearby. The park is clean, accessible, and free to enter. Signage in multiple languages makes it easy for international visitors to understand the historical significance. Whether you come for remembrance, learning, or reflection, Peace Memorial Park leaves a lasting emotional impact. A must-visit when in Hiroshima — respectful, educational, and profoundly important.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is beautifully designed and deeply moving. Walking through the quiet paths and memorials, you really feel the weight of history and the strength of the city’s message of peace. The museum is emotional but incredibly informative — a must-see for anyone who wants to understand the human side of what happened here. Everything is well maintained, peaceful, and respectful. A visit I’ll never forget.

Sad, but must see sight! Especially by current world leaders, that don’t seem to learn from the horrible past mistakes of humanity! The Peace park is vast, it takes good few hours of walking. Has multiple memorable stops, as well as many resting places, bathrooms…. Witnessed large groups of local students, paying tribute to the fallen victims of the A-bomb- extremely touching and chocking experience … It was crowded by tourists, as to be expected.

The museum and memorial are fantastic. Walking through, seeing, and reading of all the stories of people was pretty emotional. This kind of closed the loop for me in the Pacfic theater of WWI. I've seen Pearl Harbor, been to Midway Island, and out to the Marshall Islands. The staff was great and helpful and the park was immaculate. Highly recommended to see this.

A beautiful and meaningful place to spend the afternoon. The park is peaceful yet powerful, with a deep sense of history surrounding it. It’s well maintained and spacious, making it easy to walk around and take in the atmosphere. The Atomic Bomb Dome and Museum are the main highlights, offering a sobering reminder of the past.

The Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima is one of the most moving places I’ve ever visited. Walking through it, there’s a quiet heaviness that really makes you pause and reflect. The park is beautifully designed, with wide open spaces, trees, and monuments that all carry deep meaning. The Atomic Bomb Dome, still standing in ruins, is particularly powerful — a stark reminder of the devastation but also of resilience. The memorials, such as the Cenotaph and the Children’s Peace Monument, are incredibly touching, especially when you see the thousands of paper cranes left by visitors from around the world. The museum itself is both heartbreaking and eye-opening, giving a raw and honest account of the events and their aftermath. It’s not an easy visit, but it’s one that stays with you. More than anything, it feels like a call for peace and a reminder of why it matters.

A moving and beautiful maintained place that captures the importance of peace and rememberance. We walked through the park and saw sights such as the Atomic Bomb Some, the Children's Peace Monument, the flame of peace and more. Well worth the visit to if anything else, to provide some understanding of the effect the atomic bombing caused.

If you are looking learn more about the consequences of what a nuclear bomb does, you have to visit this museum. Looking at the artifacts and listening to the audio tour should invoke sadness and the sense that no nuclear bombs should ever be used again. If you have younger children, bring them when they are older. There are some graphic images that are on display. If you are able, purchase your tickets ahead of them so you don’t have to wait in a long line to purchase them. Also, to get the full experience, purchase the audio tour. The audio tours can also be purchased in advance and is highly recommended that you do so. It seemed like there were a limited number of them. Pack your patience. The line to see the exhibits was super long and there are people everywhere so it is difficult to see everything. They have you go in a circle so you couldn’t really move ahead and then go back to see something you might have missed.

Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was a powerful and emotional experience. The exhibits are very informative and thoughtfully presented, reminding us of the importance of peace and understanding. Getting a ticket was very easy — you can buy it directly at the counter without any hassle, or purchase it online in advance if you prefer. The whole process was smooth and convenient. A must-visit place when you’re in Hiroshima. It’s not just a museum, but a moment of reflection that stays with you.

Beautiful museum which explains many questions that I had in advance, both history facts and other questions. The memorial is placed at the beginning of Peace Memorial park right next to the fountain of the mother with her children. The line to get in were not long when we were there, but it might be more crowded at later times or later seasons. The staff is helpful if you need assistance and you can also find those stamps you can collect on the north side of the museum on the same floor as the ticket sales.

I feel very lucky to have visited such a beautiful place. The Atomic dome has been preserved so well for the public to view in the same condition after the bombing. I had goosebumps as I walked through the park. The bell had writings in hindi around it. It's very sad when you read the scripts. A must see for everyone who visits Japan.

My heart hurt so much for the innocent people of Hiroshima. This museum is grim but definitely shows the importance of the awareness of the consequences of our actions as human beings and why atomic weapons and war are so horrible. It makes it so much more real when you see the faces of the innocent, and the articles of clothing and the fused items. Absolutely heartbreaking but a must do if you're in Japan.

The contents and historical significance of the exhibits should have given this museum a five star review. However, the level of overcrowding impeded me from learning anything new and wasted a few hours of our packed tour around Japan. It would have been better to read a text book instead! The lack of crowd management was shocking for a country like Japan to the point of fearing for my own safety. You are stuck in a long dark corridor with no space to move or breathe (please refer to pictures!). There should be a capping on maximum capacity and time allocations should be followed rather than being opened to all at such a low entrance fee price. This was a hugely disappointing and frustrating attraction that I was really looking forward to see having travelled all the way from the UK. I really wish we had skipped this city altogether and gone somewhere else!

Excellent place to visit. It was emotional and heart-touching for me. The museum has been set up in a very nice way and provides thorough information in a way one can absorb, with its true essence. Bravo!..🤩

Well thought out homage to the children who were affected by the atomic bombing. The monument is a short walk away from the river and the museum. It’s a great place to pass by and visit this monument, especially during the evening. Worth visiting during your trip!

Seeing a groups of school children paying their respects by singing songs and reciting poems in front of Children's Peace Monument was a profoundly emotional experience. It is a place that tells a specific, heartbreaking story that has come to represent a universal hope: that no more children will ever suffer from the horrors of nuclear war.

Thoughtful homage to all the children who sadly lost their lives when the A Bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. Ring the bell for a sense of peace and respect. Place your paper artwork or origami bird in one of the boxes that will be left open on the day.

Powerful monument to remember all those children that died after the Hiroshima Atomic Bombing. The paper swans hanging in the plastic/metal display cases are impressive.

Very moving experience. Groups of school children paying their respects at the Children's Peace Monument with song, poems and presentation of a thousand origami cranes.

Amazing memorial absolutely surrounded by beautiful paper cranes. Definitely a must-visit if you're coming to Hiroshima.

Peace monument to commemorate Sadoko and other children whose lives were destroyed by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Sadoka's sculpture is at the top and a boy and a girl sculptures are at the two sides, one on each side, beneath. Behind the monument are origami or paper crane collections to honor Sadoko's memory. The monument has a bell which visitors strike to honor the memory of victims.

🕊️ Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome Review Visiting the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome was a deeply moving experience. It stands as a powerful reminder of the tragic events that took place in Hiroshima and serves as undeniable proof of the devastating impact of nuclear weapons. The museum exhibits and photographs vividly portray the horror, suffering, and human cost of the atomic bombing. They leave a lasting impression and convey an important message about peace and the value of life. This site teaches a painful but essential lesson for all of humanity. It is a place everyone should visit at least once — to remember the past and to reflect on the importance of preventing such tragedies in the future

A very good place to visit. It is very well maintained and preserved with fantastic surroundings. One does get emotional looking at the tomb, thinking of the time (August 1945) when the humanity discovered the destructive potential of its own powers.

This place is so renowned I believe I don’t have to explain more. A must visit if you’re here in Hiroshima. In fact, it might even be worth it to plan your entire Japan trip around this. I feel that everyone deserves to learn from the past and do not take peace for granted Visited on 27 January 2023, Monday.

A place that stirs such mixed emotions. A day to reflect , The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on 6 August 1945. Through the efforts of many people, including those of the city of Hiroshima, it has been preserved in the same state as immediately after the bombing. Not only is it a stark and powerful symbol of the most destructive force ever created by humankind; it also expresses the hope for world peace and the ultimate elimination of all nuclear weapons. We can only hope that humanity never allows something like this to happen again.

Historical place, and also a nice park. Located in the central of Hiroshima, so you can visit here by riding a streetcar. The Atomic Bomb Dome itself has a very significant outlook, so you won't miss it. 😉

A pilgrimage for many. Peace park is just across the river. Very beautiful park and quite spot to view the Dome.

Must visit location in Hiroshima. It is really fascinating to see this building and how it has been well preserved for the past couple decades. There are a lot of people wandering this area, and a lot of things to see. Definitely check out the two nearby museums while you visit the Atomic Bomb Dome. Highly recommend!

The view at the top of the castle is beautiful. The exhibit inside is very informational and has displays of armor and katana, including how the swords are made. There are even spots where you can try on a helmet and lift the sword. Great stop, especially if you're in the area near Peace Memorial Park.

★★★★☆ | A Powerful Symbol of Resilience Hiroshima Castle stands as a profound testament to the city's ability to rebuild and reclaim its history. While it is a meticulous concrete reconstruction, don't let that fool you into thinking it lacks authenticity. The value of this castle isn't in ancient, original timber; it's in its powerful story. The main keep houses an excellent museum dedicated to the castle's history, samurai culture, and life in feudal Hiroshima. The artifacts and informative displays are engaging, but the most poignant moment comes when you reach the top floor. The viewing platform offers a stunning 360-degree panorama of the modern city, a view that is both beautiful and deeply moving. To look out over this vibrant, peaceful metropolis, knowing it once was ashes, is an unforgettable experience. Its proximity to the Peace Memorial Park makes it an essential part of a day of historical reflection. You move from the profound tragedy of the Atomic Bomb Dome to the inspiring resurrection symbolized by the castle.

Really enjoyed our visit inside here. I would recommend buying tickets and going inside, it’s a very informative and interesting museum site inside. The view from the top is also great and well worth the ticket price. We also walked around the back of the castle and that was much quieter and have a different perspective on the architecture. Overall well worth a visit.

Interesting for sure, floors 3 + 5 were my favorite. If you make it to the top you get a wonderful 360⁰ view from the top of the castle. The exhibits are not very English friendly, but Google translate accommodates for that. Some areas were just photos on the wall with blocks of text which isn't really what I like to go to a museum/exhibit to look at, but my husband really enjoyed the in-depth and informational history.

This wasn't on our itinerary for the day but we decided after going to the Peace Museum that we needed a distraction. The Castle delivered. A beautiful reconstruction of the one destroyed by the a-bomb. And, after a few iterations, the city decided the Castle could serve as a museum showing what life was like for those living in the Castle Town. Highlights included the sword exhibit and the lovely views from the upper balconies. I would have rated this attraction higher except that many photo exhibits solely had Japanese signs. Roughly half of the points of interest had signs in Japanese and English.

I am reviewing the grounds, shrine, and exterior of castle. Very nice look at historical castle grounds with several peaceful spots to relax. The moat is beautifully taken care off and the whole experience is much more intimate than imperial palace grounds in Tokyo. Amazing to see trees that survived bombing that still grow today. That was worth the trip in itself.

One of the top 3 attractions I’ve visited in Hiroshima. It’s very cool and has a lot of history behind it. You can see a bunch of katana, sword guards and armours the samurai wore back then and experience holding a katana sword. The views around the castle and its moat are also very picturesque. The top of the castle view was an unexpected delight and it was nice seeing 360 degree view of the city. Yes it’s crowded (less so than peace memorial museum) but still definitely worth a visit 👍

1st Stop: Alley Karasu-ko-jima, Former bayside Navy site offering close-up looks of Maritime Self-Defense Force submarines & ships. Interesting in the context that the Navy facility was easy to view! Never had a close up of submarines before, plus some old leftovers from days long past! A quick & easy stop, grab a cup of coffee at the well stocked 7-11 (in Japan it’s called 7i)

This place is a good park to see Kure bay. ESPECIALLY you can see submarines and ships! That’s fantastic! The view is great! Just located by a road and water so no parking and not big. But I think you can enjoy!

Kure has an amazing history and played a significant role in Japan's navy and the war. Very well done and informative. Highly recommend.

Over 10 submarines, cruisers, this is a really cool place to spot marine military vessels (if you are lucky!!)

A stunning place that you can see real submarines docking by the bay!

This is the only place in Japan, where you can see Japanese military ships and submarines.

view of in service submarines

This museum is located in the Kure an industrial port area. Nice museum to visit if you’re in the area but perhaps don’t go out of your way (as this is located a fair distance from Hiroshima). The displays are nice and there is a large model of the Yamato battleship and real life Zero fighter plane (but not much else)

Cool place! I enjoyed seeing the Japanese Zero and the engines up close. Kure is a distance from Hiroshima but it's worth a visit as the Irifuneyama Memorial Museum and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Kure Museum are also in the area (both great). This museum does mention that the Imperial Japanese Army had occupied SEA countries (though no details on the atrocities they committed), in case one wonders if there is Japanese propaganda here. Overall I feel that the information provided is factual and neutral.

Awesome museum with tons of history. There is a bunch of sections written in English underneath Japanese text. Easily spent 3 hours walking around and also seeing the Aircraft Carrier exhibit Just a minor complaint: There is an Augmented Reality app you can download that will help with navigating, but it has too many issues on Android.

Very interesting museum. I especially Liked the big scale models and the submarines. The subject matter of the submarines are a bit controversial, since they were used for "suicide" missions. Some of the manned submarines were not able to return after being fired, it was essentially a death sentence as soon as it was launched even if they didn't hit their target.

If you like military history or ships, then this is the place for you. There is also an interactive area on the top floor for children to learn about ships, that your kids will love.

The museum of Japan’s ever greatest battleship in Kure. There are plenty of Japanese navy battleships and plane carriers during cruel World War II. In terms of looking into technology and military arts, it’s a great place to find out advances of Japan’s manufacturing. From history view, it’s always warning everyone how terrible a war is. Just across the road, a free submarine museum deserves to stopping by also. And a harbor cruise is also available.

Great museum and more then just a model of the Yamato. They had lots of artifacts from the sunken ship and lots of pictures of the ship. They explained the building of the ship and the sailing of the ship. Great museum and I recommend going.

This place is a good hill for enjoying great view! You can see Kure bay all! There are big shipyard, port, JMSDF ships, city and mountain! This place is called “ Hill you can see the history”. This shipyard below here is the birthplace for the Battleship YAMATO in on the WW2 era. Great! You must be able to feel the wind from the era, hahaha! This place is a little bit apart from the city center so it’s better to take a bus! Enjoy!

the locals called it history hill i don't know maybe because it was busy then building ships wayback japan was a maritime super power but it offers a good view : )

Not a must but can take a quick look on the ship builiding site high above

good impression. you can see the shipyard which built the Yamato battle ship.

sensational～

Great view of the shipyards

Memories

(Translated by Google) What! It's more amazing than JR Matsuyama Station... The station is combined with Takashimaya and there's a big Ferris wheel. I asked a staff member how to ride the tram, and he said it's fine because it goes around Matsuyama Castle, so I headed for Okaido Station without checking, and ended up at Matsuyama City Station... and it's the last stop... and it seems that it's quite a distance from Matsuyama City Station to the downtown area. I walked there, and it's fun to stroll around a beautiful town. It was a beautiful town even more than I imagined. (Original) えっっ！JR松山駅より凄いぞ…高島屋と駅が合体してるし大きい観覧車もある。スタッフの方に路面電車の乗り方を聞き、松山城の周りをグルグル周る感じなので大丈夫ですよと言われて調べずに大街道駅を目指したら、松山市駅に着いてしまった…しかも終点とは…そして松山市駅から繁華街までまぁまぁ距離があるようです。私は歩きましたが綺麗な街を散策するのは楽しいですね。想像以上の綺麗な街でした。

(Translated by Google) A major tram station. As of September 2025, the area around the station was under construction. "Matsuyama Station" and "Matsuyama City Station." It's confusing, so I personally think it would be better to change one of the names. (Original) 路面電車の主要駅。 2025年9月現在、駅周辺は工事中でした。 「松山駅」と「松山市駅」。 ややこしいので、どちらか名前を変えた方が良いと個人的には思いました。

(Translated by Google) I arrived by tram from JR Matsuyama Station. There are several Takashimaya hotels and it seems to be in the center of the city. (Original) JR松山駅から路面電車で到着しました。高島屋、ホテルが複数あり市の中心部のようです。

(Translated by Google) The terminal of the largest private railway in Shikoku, boasting the largest number of users in the region. Is there really a small-to-medium-sized private railway like this? (Original) 四国地方最大の利用者数を誇る四国最大の私鉄のターミナル。 こんな中小私鉄あるかよ。

(Translated by Google) Iyotetsu's main station in the center of Matsuyama City, the Ferris wheel on the roof of the station building whose anchor tenant is Takashimaya is a landmark. If you buy a one-day ticket, you can ride it once for free. Iyotetsu is the second long-established private railway in Japan, a so-called local private railway, but it is a lively railway company with new rolling stock and monitor displays inside the train. The sightseeing train Botchan Train runs every day (800 yen per ride, reservations accepted) (2020) The Botchan train changes direction by rotating the top of the bogie (driver's seat).At Matsuyama City Station, two train crew members stand at the center of the connecting line (the N-shaded part) between the getting off platform and the boarding platform. The trains were turned by hand and the passenger cars were pushed by hand, but from November 2023, due to Iyotetsu's shortage of crew members, it was not possible to secure enough personnel, and operations were suspended. (Original) 松山市の中心にある伊予鉄の基幹駅、高島屋が核テナントの駅ビルの屋上にある観覧車がランドマーク、一日乗車券を買うと無料で一回乗ることができます 伊予鉄は日本で2番目に出来た老舗の民営鉄道、いわゆるローカル私鉄なのだが、車両も新しく、車内の表示もモニターになっていて、元気な鉄道会社だね 観光列車の坊っちゃん列車が毎日運行されています（1乗車800円、予約可）（2020年） 坊っちゃん列車は台車の上部（運転席）を回転させる事で方向転換します、松山市駅では降車ホームと乗車ホームとの接続線（Nの字の斜線部）の中心部で二人の乗務員が手で回し、客車は手押ししていましたが、2023年11月より、伊予鉄の乗務員不足により人員が確保出来ず、運行休止となりました

(Translated by Google) The locker for large luggage such as suitcases is located behind the left corner of Ramen at the station! *There is no exchange machine, so please prepare cash in advance. The fee for suitcases is 700 yen. There are lockers for small luggage inside the station too! Daiso is still there and hasn't changed at all, which makes me sad. Some of the station staff are nice, but some are unfriendly! (Original) スーツケースなど大きい荷物ロッカー入れは駅のラーメンの左角の奥にあります！ ※両替機はないため、あらかじめ現金を用意しといて下さい。 スーツケース用の料金は700円です。 小さい荷物のロッカーは駅内にもあります！ ダイソーも相変わらずあって全くかわってなくてわらいました。 駅員の良い人もいれば愛想ないのも相変わらずだ！

(Translated by Google) It is one of the largest stations in Ehime! There are shopping streets and restaurants nearby, and you can go to most sightseeing spots in Matsuyama City by train or bus from here! (Original) 愛媛の中では大きめの駅です！ 近くに商店街や飲食店があるのと、松山市にある大抵の観光場所にはここから電車かバスでいけます！

A small museum inside a Starbucks! No tickets either. Once you go inside the Starbucks, just head straight to the back and you will see it. While small, it is cool to read the history and see some of the historic items!

Inside Starbucks, a small museum, nice to visit if you are around.

It's a museum of sorts. It has one replica locomotive. It's a large back room of the Starbucks. It's a nice looking engine. Some good information about train service in this area back in the 1800s.

Well... I don't know if it's inside the Starbucks so...

Must go thru from Starbucks, only 1 train but very well maintained.

It's a tiny area inside a Starbucks. You can enjoy you coffee while looking at the super cool train.

I spent ages trying to find this place, gave up and then went in to the nearby Starbucks only to find it there. It's a train and some info on the transport system of Matsuyama - so pretty rad for a Starbucks.

It’s an especially magical spot during sakura (cherry blossom) season. The castle grounds are surrounded by blooming cherry trees, creating a picture-perfect scene that feels straight out of a postcard. Whether you're into history, nature, or photography, this place has something special to offer. After exploring, there’s also a charming little ice cream shop nearby that’s perfect for a sweet break. Their local flavors are refreshing and delicious — a nice treat to enjoy while taking in the scenery.

This was a terrific castle visit. Great access to all areas for the public and lots of English signage to explain in good detail what we are looking at. Splendid views of the area from the top of the castle. Loved the chairlift ride up the hill., even though there were no safety bars! Children over six are allowed on the chairlift but there is also a gondola if you have less risk appetite for your children!

Nice castle if you’re interested in these historic buildings and you have a day in Matsuyama. The chair lift up was the highlight for me. Lots of steep stairs and ladders so be careful and they have slippers to use if you like but I find they make it harder to go up/down stairs. Great views from the castle onto the city.

An amazing castle, a lot of history and so interesting how it was designed, a lot of information and detail inside, the steps are extremely steep so anyone with walking difficults or issues with heights should avoid going inside. Even though there will be a get in and get out feeling, try to take it in, imagine what it would have been like to have been in the castle during the Edo period. Very interesting to also see the change in fighting style with the introduction of guns.

When you are in Matsuyama this Castle is a must see. However, be aware you will have to climb steep steps. Or you can take the access road to the bottom of the gondola. There is an enclosed gondola that runs every 10 minutes. Or you have a continuous single person chairlift. The chairlift is for the brave at heart.

There is a chair lift, ski lift, and a pathway to get to the castle. The castle is rare in that it is up a hill and also rare that is completely the original for the most part. It was not damaged during the war. It was a good specimen of the period when it was made. The ladder is very difficult to use as the angle is very high and the steps are small. If you have big feet, you may have difficulty.

The chair lift is a new experience for me. Feeling so refresh and very open to feel view, air everything. I think here is good to walk in morning.

Most boring arcade shopping street I've seen in all of Japan so far. Half the stores were closed on a non-holiday Saturday at 2pm.

(Translated by Google) A rest area near the center of the main road. Only one room, but fully equipped with toilet🚹🚺♿ Barrier-free and wheelchair accessible♿ It has air conditioning and heating, so it's perfect for when you're tired of walking or stopping by on your way to shopping 💮 Chairs and tables are also available. No eating or drinking is allowed❌, so it will only be used as a rest area. (Original) 大街道の中央付近にある、休憩スペース。 1室だけだが、トイレ完備🚹🚺♿ バリアフリーになっていて、車椅子にも対応している♿ 冷暖房完備されているので、歩き疲れた時や、ショッピングの途中に立ち寄るのに最適💮 椅子やテーブルも用意されている。 飲食不可❌なので、休憩所としてだけの利用になる。

(Translated by Google) Matsuyama arcade street Walking from end to end is good exercise. (Original) 松山のアーケード街 端から端まで歩くと、良い運動に成ります

(Translated by Google) After all! Matsuyama night market. He was an amazing person. (Original) やはり!松山の夜市。凄い人でした。

(Translated by Google) Very nice to visit~ (Original) 很好逛~

I just have a look around and take some quick photos... The Japanese rickshaw- traditional Japanese two-wheeled cart pulled by a person... Kept infront... Nice place for taking a clips to be remembered

Upon arriving at the venue, I was immediately struck by the building's pristine and well-maintained exterior. Its façade hinted at a rich history and promised a journey back in time, setting high expectations for what lay inside. Imagining rooms adorned with artifacts, I was eager to immerse myself in the treasures of yesteryears. However, as I ventured further, I was met with a series of stark, empty rooms. The absence of original furnishings was palpable, leaving spaces that felt more like vacuous echoes rather than hallowed halls of history. Instead of the rich tapestry of items from the past, the rooms were bereft of significant memorabilia, creating a dissonance between the building's exterior promise and its interior reality. A handful of rooms did offer a semblance of the past, displaying photographs from Japanese dramas and historical posters. These glimpses, though intriguing, couldn't compensate for the overall emptiness. In the end, what I had hoped would be a prolonged journey of discovery was reduced to a brief 15-minute tour. The place, while holding traces of its illustrious past, sadly feels like a mere shadow, a shell of its once grand self.

It’s a unique thing to see in Japan and can be toured in about 30 minutes. They don’t have any brochures or signs in other languages though so if you can’t read Japanese you have to use your phone to read signs or you won’t get much out of it

Very outstanding architect in the middle of the forest. This white French style castle is hard to miss even though it’s not a castle. It used to be a house for a very powerful governor who actually was titled in a royal rank. The look of this architect is good enough to attract visitors’ eyes but not recommended to buy a ticket to have a tour inside of it. There is nothing that much to have a look. However when we got there some exhibition was going on the first floor with a theme of gothic. It was pretty interesting to have a look. I guess there’s occasionally this type of free exhibition hosted here.

(+) Beautiful garden area (+) Gazebo has a “othello ” table for people to play. (+) Great location for pictures (+) Unique European architecture (+) Wide variety of events & exhibitions every month (+) Beautiful woodwork & stained glass windows inside. (-) If you’re not interested in the exhibition, or there aren’t any events when you visit, it may not be worth the admission ticket to the house.

It was closed when I visited. But I take a chance to spot outside the building. It was amazing to me with its classical decorations. The surrounding environment is also enjoyable and worth dropping by for a picture.

Historic old European style building. Small and not a lot to see inside, but the building itself is impressive from the outside.

A good number of Historical collections decorated and organised in a systematic manner... Everything is in Japanese... I found the facilities of using headphones recording in English costing 100 en but I didn’t use it... The design of the building is unique...

It was a wonderful building designed by Tadao Ando. I visited in the morning, and I was able to have a cup of coffee quietly. There was another exhibition going on inside the building. If you want to visit the cafe, you can go into the building and go to the left.

If not a fan of Saka no Ue no Kumo, or not so interested in Japan modern history, you may skip this museum. As a buidling desigend by Tadao Ando, it is typical but not outstanding.

I can’t read Japanese. But the architecture here is something you can’t miss. The whole building is a concrete triangular prism. The centre piece is the long concrete staircase. There is another spectacular installation. Go to 2/F or 3/F. There is a balcony facing Bansuiso. The glass installed below the handrail is styled with ripples. I looked from inside the museum towards Banduiso. The glass looked like a pond with ripples. Above the “pond”, it was Bansuiso and the greenery. I don’t think this is not meticulously planned.

What a nice museum ! so very like Japanese !! Simple and elegant ~~ And the name of the museum means “ a cloud over the hill “ Don’t you think it’s such a charming name? Just the name of it definitely attracts me I was surprised this is a work of Ando Tadao who is one of my favorite world wide famous architecture we didn’t plan to visit this museum however it’s on the way to Bansuiso It’s a very interesting building ,also very early work of Ando Tadao. We didn’t mind to drop by to have a look . There’s a small cafe inside of museum. No charge to have a look and you can have a sip of Japanese tea while you are admiring this museum

Incredible , a museum dedicated to the novel Saka no Ue no Kumo by Ryotaro Shiba. The setting is in the Meiji era, depicts the lives of brothers Yoshifuru and Saneyuki Akiyama, and Shiki Masaoka, who all came from Matsuyama.

you have to know the japanese literature to enjoy the museum