2024 Iwakuni Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Yaganamon Gate

Address: Japan, 741-0081 Yamaguchi, Iwakuni, Yokoyama, 2 Chome-4. Getting there: You can take bus and stop at Kintaikyo bus stop. The gate is just around 5 minutes from the bus stop. Highlights: This Nagayamon gate belongs to a former samurai residence of the Kagawa family. The Kagawa family is one of the five elders of the Iwakuni domain. Because the residence is still used, only the gate can be viewed. The gate is believed to have been built in 1693, and has been well maintained.😬 It is a really fine gate. Although visitors are not allowed to go in the residence, I can already feel the history from touring around the gate and residence. Opening hours: 9.30am to 4.30pm daily Admission fee: free of charge #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk

Iwakuni Art Museum

Address: 2 Chome-10-27 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan. Getting there: The Iwakuni Art Museum is just located opposite to the famous Kikko Park in Iwakuni city. Highlights: The Iwakuni Art Museum also formerly known as the Kashiwabara Museum. This museum displays an art collection that includes glassware, samurai armor, ceramics and the furniture of Iwakuni's feudal lords. It is named after the family who owns the collection. It's more of a history museum with artifacts, but they're showcasing the artisans' mastery of the craft rather than historical relevance to the area. This museum is almost mandatory if you want to have any hope of absorbing the history of the entire Yokoyama area. 🥰 Opening hours: 9am to 5pm daily Admission fee: 800yen #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk

Kintaikyo Bridge is located at the Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Its is reachable by bus from Iwakuni and Shin Iwakuni Station. aside from this bridge, other attractions available here are iwakuni castle, white snake museum, and others. They also sell more than 100 flavours of soft serve ice cream, so that we can relax and appreciating the view while enjoying the ice cream. #tripaway #tripaway

Kikko Park

#japantrip Kikko Park in Iwakuni is a serene escape, blending nature and history beautifully. Nestled at the base of Iwakuni Castle, the park features lush gardens, a tranquil koi pond, and traditional samurai houses. The Kintai Bridge nearby adds to its charm, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy various seasonal flowers, especially cherry blossoms in spring. The park also offers plenty of seating and ice cream shops with unique flavors. Ideal for families and history buffs alike, Kikko Park is a must-visit for a peaceful day out.

Japan’s National Treasure in Iwakuni - Kintaikyo

Kintaikyo is a pedestrian wooden bridge with 5 arches that spreads over the Nishiki River in the city of Iwakuni, it was built in 1673 and was declared a National Treasure in 1922. The arches requires regular maintenance- rebuilding the center 3 arches every 20 years and the two connecting to the banks every 40 years. Consequently the bridge remained intact for over 276 years until washed away by flood during a typhoon in 1950. It was reconstructed following the original in 1953. Walking across the bridge requires a small fee of¥300 for adults and ¥150 for children from 8am- 5pm. On the right bank of the bridge, there is a statue of one of the eight former prime ministers from Yamaguchi Prefecture- more than any other prefecture in Japan. We arrived on a rainy day when the water level was very high. The low clouds also added more beauty to the bridge and the surrounding mountains. #Yamaguchiprefecture #iwakuni #Kintaikyo

castle are great view is spectacular

Iwakuni Castle is a nice place to stop by if you ride the cable car to the top of the mountain. It's a nice clean castle like many others but the best thing about this one is you can oversee the Kintaikyo Bridge downstairs. It was destroyed during a war and later reconstructed . It's amazing to see the types of swords and armors used at that time. Exhibition is small, but the experience is amazing All in all, we had a great time visiting #songkran2024#mytravelhacks#cherryblossom2024#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip#trip#instatravel#goodfoods#langkawi#foodphotography#chinatown#ipoh#temples#siemreap#familyfun#edinburgh#คาเฟ่ห้ามพลาด

Beautiful Japanese Sakura of Kintaikyo

#cherryblossom2024 A very Japanese look The massive pillars of the Kintai-kyo Bridge, one of the symbols of Yamaguchi Prefecture, contrast with the airy elegance of its spans. Together with Iwakuni Castle next door, it demonstrates the achievements of Japanese builders and looks equally charming at any time of the year. Recommended Visit Iwakuni Castle, which overlooks the Kintai-ke Bridge Visit Kikko Park nearby Admire the bridge from the bank of the Nishiki River How to get there From Hiroshima, you can get to JR Iwakuni Station on the Sanyo Main Line, and from Shin-Yamaguchi Station, take the Sanyo Shinkansen Express to Shin-Iwakuni Station. The bridge is between these stations, so you will have to take a taxi or bus to get to it. Summer illumination Kintai-ke is especially beautiful in August, when the summer fireworks festival takes place. This is a popular summer tradition — fireworks beautifully illuminate the bridge, creating stunning effects. Bridges and sakura Those who visit Yamaguchi Prefecture in early spring should come to the town of Iwakuni in April to admire the sakura growing along the banks of the river. The delicate pink petals against the dark silhouette of the bridge resemble an ancient engraving.

Elegance and Beauty of Kintaikyo Sakura

#cherryblossom2024 Simplicity and elegance without a single nail The picturesque Kintai Bridge connects the banks of the Nishiki River in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Prefecture. The structure of five high arched spans was built without a single nail from Japanese cypress, chestnut and oak. Kintai-ke changes its appearance at different times of the day and year. He is very popular with photographers and artists, including the master of engraving Hokusai. Kikko Park begins right behind the bridge: there are houses where samurai once lived. Recommended Admire the bridge during the cherry blossom season Visit Kikko Park and explore the buildings of the XIX century Walk to Iwakuni Castle and Art Museum How to get Kintai Bridge is located near JR Iwakuni Station, where trains arrive from JR Hiroshima, Yamaguchi and Fukuoka stations. JR Iwakuni Station is served by a train from Hiroshima on the Sanyo Main Line. The Sanyo Shinkansen runs to Shin-Iwakuni Station from Hiroshima and Fukuoka, as well as from Shin-Yamaguchi Station. Kintai-kyo is located between JR Iwakuni and Shin-Iwakuni stations, so you need to take a taxi or bus from either of them to it. The bridge marked in the Michelin guide Kintai-kyo is marked by several official titles. It is considered one of the three great bridges of Japan, a place of scenic beauty, and in 2013 even received two Michelin stars. The bridge was originally built in 1673, but was destroyed by a typhoon in 1950. In 1953, the bridge was restored according to the original sketches. In modern construction, nails are used, but they are made of steel, smelted in a Tatar furnace, from which blades were forged in the old days. We recommend that you definitely visit the bridge when traveling to the city of Iwakuni — it is very convenient to start exploring local attractions from it. Sakura around Kinunkaku House in Kikko Park The colors of the year at the bridge and in Kikko Park Every year in April, 3,000 sakura trees bloom in Kikko Park and near Kintai Bridge. Autumn colors the foliage with bright colors. Kikko Park is one of the most beautiful places in autumn Iwakuni. Sakura in Kikko Park There are several 19th-century wooden buildings in the park, including the magnificent Kikko Shrine, Kinunkaku Hall, a wooden warehouse built in 1885, as well as samurai estates. Sprinklers allow visitors to cool off in the heat

Kintaikyo Bridge and the Former Mekada Residence in Yamaguchi

【Access】 ○ Zip Code 741-0081 Yamaguchi Prefecture, Iwakuni City, Yokoyama 2 Chome-6 ○ It's about a 3-minute walk from Kintaikyo Bridge. 【Highlights】 〜Experience History〜 The Former Mekada Residence is considered to be a rare surviving example of a middle-class samurai house from the mid-18th century and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the nation. It is said that the family line settled in this area after being employed by Yoshihisa Yoshikawa during the Tensho period and later followed the lord Hiroie Yoshikawa when the Yoshikawa clan was transferred to Iwakuni. Since it's very close to Kintaikyo Bridge, why not take a stroll and visit? ※Information as of March 2024.

Kintaikyo Bridge in Yamaguchi

【Access】 ○ To enter Kintaikyo Bridge from the Iwakuni side, it is a 1-minute walk from the Kintaikyo Bridge bus stop. There is also a riverside parking lot, which is also immediately accessible. ○ Kintaikyo Bridge can be entered without reservation from both the town side and the mountain side. 【Points of Interest】 〜Viewing Kintaikyo Bridge from the riverside〜 Kintaikyo Bridge is said to be about 193 meters in length and about 5 meters in width. It appears to be constructed using a wooden framework technique with 'makigane' and 'kasugai'. Please make sure to go down to the riverside and look up at Kintaikyo Bridge from below. The construction is surprisingly intricate. It is also recommended for the variety of experiences it offers throughout the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, cormorant fishing and fireworks in the summer nightscape, autumn foliage, and a snowy landscape in winter. ※Information as of March 2024.

The Iwakuni Bridge, also known as the Kintaikyo Bridge, is a famous wooden bridge located in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. It is considered to be one of the most iconic and beautiful historic bridges in Japan. Here are some key facts about the Iwakuni Bridge: 1. Construction: The Iwakuni Bridge was first built in 1673 during the Edo period. It was designed by Hiroyoshi Kikkawa, a local lord, to provide a crossing over the Nishiki River. 2. Unique Design: What makes the Iwakuni Bridge stand out is its unique design characterized by five wooden arches. The bridge spans 193 meters (633 feet) and stands about 14.4 meters (47.2 feet) above the river. 3. Historical Significance: The bridge played a vital role in connecting the Iwakuni Castle with the city, serving as an important transportation route during feudal times. 4. Preservation: The Iwakuni Bridge was originally constructed using wooden pegs without the use of any nails. It has been meticulously maintained and reconstructed throughout the years to preserve its original essence. The bridge we see today is a reconstruction completed in 1953 after being destroyed during World War II. 5. Visitor Experience: Visitors can cross the bridge while enjoying scenic views of the Nishiki River and Iwakuni town. The bridge is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower-viewing) during the spring season. 6. Cultural Importance: In recognition of its cultural value, the Iwakuni Bridge has been designated as a National Scenic Spot and a National Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government. If you ever have the chance to visit Iwakuni, the Iwakuni Bridge is definitely worth a visit for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and natural surroundings. #Iwakuni #IwakuniBridge #japan

The Old Mekata Family House

Address: 2 Chome-6 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan. Getting there: The residence is just located at the back of the famous Kikko Park in Iwakuni city. Highlights: This Mekata Family's House is a former residence belonged to the Mekada family, who were mid-level samurai. You cannot actually enter the residence, but can walk around it and observe it from a few steps away. However, I think this is sufficient to enjoy the history and very much worth it. It is in a good state of preservation, and is a valuable cultural heritage site. The roof covered with double-sleeved tiles, which is also known as Iwakuni tiles, has a high design and looks amazing! Opening hours: 9.30am to 4.30pm daily Admission fee: free of charge #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk

Kikko Shrine

Address: 2 Chome-8-5 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan. Getting there: You can take bus and stop at Yokoyama bus stop. The shrine is just around 5 minutes from the bus stop. Highlights: Kikko Shrine is the family shrine of Iwakuni's powerful Kikkawa family. The shrine was constructed in 1884 and is situated above the living quarters of the family's former residence. It's also designated as an important cultural property of the country. 😬 The garden behind the shrine is beautiful and the river that flows around the shrine precincts is also quaint. You can spend a relaxing time, so be sure to check it out! 😌 #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk

Kikkawa Museum

Address: 2 Chome-7-3 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan Getting there: The Kikkawa Museum is just located opposite to the famous Kikko Park in Iwakuni city. Highlights: The Kikkawa Museum is a relayively small museum. It displays the possessions of the Kikkawa family, which includes documents, swords and other weapons. The experience is so utterly fascinating, but a little tantalising because the written explanations in English provide just a hint of the extraordinary history within. There is also a side room of this exhibition space house just a small part of the historic items catalogued in the Kikkawa Archives. 😄 Opening hours: 9am to 5pm daily Admission fee: 500yen #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk

Kikko Park

Address: 2 Chome-6-51 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan. Getting there: You can take bus and stop at Kintaikyo bus stop. The park is just around 6 minutes from the bus stop. Highlights: The Kikko park is one of the most beautiful park in Japan. 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 you 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. Also, look out for the many large trees in the park that were planted in the Edo period, many over 20 meters in height. They are really impressive! 🤩 #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #gooutside

Kintaikyo Bridge

Address: Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0062, Japan Getting there: You can take bus and stop at Kintaikyo bus stop. The bridge is just in front of the bus stop. Highlights: The Kintaikyo Bridge has been Iwakuni's most distinguished landmark and a subject of admiration for hundreds of years. The elegant, wooden bridge makes five bold arches onto massive stone pillars as it crosses over the Nishiki River. 🤩 The bridge has a small toll that can be paid to an attendee on either end during the day, or paid via an honor system drop box after working hours. The view from the bridge is breathtaking. It amazes me to see a bridge made of wood that stood the test of time for 3 centuries.😊 Opening hours: always open Admission fee: 310yen #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #architecture

Kikko Shrine

Address: 2 Chome-8-5 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan. Getting there: You can take bus and stop at Yokoyama bus stop. The shrine is just around 5 minutes from the bus stop. Highlights: Kikko Shrine is the family shrine of Iwakuni's powerful Kikkawa family. The shrine was constructed in 1884 and is situated above the living quarters of the family's former residence. It's also designated as an important cultural property of the country. The garden behind the shrine is beautiful and the river that flows around the shrine precincts is also quaint. You can spend a relaxing time, so be sure to check it out! 🥰 #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk

Iwakuni Art Museum

Address: 2 Chome-10-27 Yokoyama, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 741-0081, Japan. Getting there: The Iwakuni Art Museum is just located opposite to the famous Kikko Park in Iwakuni city. Highlights: The Kashiwabara Museum also formerly known as the Iwakuni Art Museum. This museum displays an art collection that includes glassware, samurai armor, ceramics and the furniture of Iwakuni's feudal lords. It is named after the family who owns the collection. It's more of a history museum with artifacts, but they're showcasing the artisans' mastery of the craft rather than historical relevance to the area. This museum is almost mandatory if you want to have any hope of absorbing the history of the entire Yokoyama area. 🤩 Opening hours: 9am to 5pm daily Admission fee: 800yen #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk