Hiroshima Castle
A castle that has seen tragedy and violence now offers tranquil views of Hiroshima. Although the castle that now overlooks Hiroshima City was built in 1958 as a replica, the original fortress has a history spanning centuries. Built in the late 1500s, it predates the city itself. Now the castle is a museum that records the history of the city prior to the atomic bombing. It is a faithful representation of the original building.
Hiroshima Castle, also known as Carp Castle, is a relatively rare flat plains castle. The foundations of the castle are 12.4 meters high, and the castle itself is another 26.6 meters high. The castle’s strategic position allowed it to be surrounded by three moats, one of which survives to this day. These moats were fed by the nearby Ota River, which in turn surrounds the castle on three sides. This strategic location now gives tourists a great view of the city and surrounding area.
The site of Hiroshima Castle was destroyed by the atomic bomb that fell on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. However, the castle did not survive the bombing. Only three trees inside the castle walls managed to survive the blast. These trees, a holly, eucalyptus, and willow tree, were located between 740 and 910 meters from the center of the blast. Today, these iconic trees have become symbols of the city’s strength and ability to survive and flourish even after a truly devastating event.
The style of the outside structure of the new castle stays close to the original, but the inside employs contemporary techniques. The keep at the top of the castle has a balcony running outside, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can now enjoy tranquil views from the castle that once witnessed tragedy and violence.
To reach Hiroshima Castle, visitors can take a tram or bus. It is about a 30-minute walk from Peace Memorial Park, or they can take the tram to Kamiyacho-nishi or Kamiyacho-higashi tram stop and walk 15 minutes from there. The castle’s location makes it easily accessible to tourists who want to explore the history and beauty of Hiroshima.
The castle’s history and significance go beyond its physical structure. It serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of the atomic bombing and the resilience of the people of Hiroshima. The museum inside the castle showcases the city’s history prior to the bombing, allowing visitors to learn about the vibrant and thriving city that existed before the tragedy. It is a testament to the strength and spirit of the people who rebuilt the city from its ashes.
Hiroshima Castle is not just a tourist attraction but also a symbol of peace and hope. It stands as a reminder of the horrors of war and the importance of working towards a world free from nuclear weapons. The castle’s transformation from a site of tragedy to a place of tranquility is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Hiroshima.
Visiting Hiroshima Castle is not just a journey through history, but also an opportunity to reflect on the past and contemplate the future. It is a place where visitors can pay their respects to the victims of the atomic bombing and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history and the enduring spirit of its people.
In conclusion, Hiroshima Castle is more than just a castle. It is a symbol of resilience, hope, and peace. The castle’s history and significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the events that shaped Hiroshima. Whether it is the panoramic views from the top of the castle, the museum showcasing the city’s history, or the three iconic trees that survived the atomic bombing, Hiroshima Castle offers a unique and powerful experience for visitors. It is a place where tragedy and violence have been transformed into tranquility and reflection.
Address And Maps Location:
21-1 Moto-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima-shi, Hiroshima-ken
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