Hiroshima Castle is one of the few historical monuments to have been fully restored after the Second World War.

The castle was built in 1589 for a powerful feudal lord named Mori Terumoto. Standing at almost 40 metres tall, the castle is situated on an island in the centre of the city, surrounded by an artificial lake.

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Following the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945, the castle was largely destroyed, but as early as 1958, an exact replica was built to its original 16th-century design.

Admission fees and opening hours

The castle’s interior has been permanently closed since March 2026. This is due to concerns about the building’s earthquake resistance.

A complete reconstruction of the castle’s wooden structure is under consideration, but no decision has yet been made.

Today, the castle houses the Hiroshima Museum, which is dedicated to the period before the Second World War.

The museum is relatively small and most of the labels are in Japanese only. Nevertheless, we think it’s worth buying a ticket to go inside, as it also includes access to the viewing platform on the top floor, which offers beautiful views of the city.

It is open every day from 9.00 am, except on certain public holidays. In winter it closes at 5.00 pm and in summer at 6.00 pm.

You can find detailed opening hours on the museum’s website:rijo--castle-jp.

The admission price for adults is 370 jpy and can be paid for in cash or by card.

Gokoku Shrine

On the island where the castle is situated, you can also visit the outdoor grounds of the Gokoku Shinto shrine.

The interior of the shrine is not open to tourists, but you can enter the courtyard free of charge daily from 9.00 am to 4.30 pm.

How to get to the castle

You can walk to Hiroshima Castle from the A-Bomb Dome in about 15 minutes through the park.

The “Orange” and “Lemon” Route sightseeing buses also stop at the castle.

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