• Kintaikyo Bridge - The tour kicks off at Hiroshima Station at 9:00 AM. The guide will meet participants by the Shinkansen Gates under the Tourist Information sign. Coin lockers are available at the station for those who wish to store belongings, but please arrive a bit earlier if you plan to use them.

The first stop is the Kintaikyo Bridge.

Upon arrival, the guide will provide an in-depth explanation of the bridge’s history and its distinctive architecture. If the river’s tide is low, participants can approach the bridge’s foundation for a closer look. The tour includes crossing the five arches, allowing ample time for photos and enjoying the views from various points on the bridge.

• Kikko Park - After crossing, the tour continues with a walk through Kikko Park. Participants can enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful fountains. The guide will highlight key landmarks within the park, such as the Hiroyoshi Kikkawa Statue and the former Mekada Residence.

Adjacent to Kikko Park is the Kikko Shrine, where the ancestral spirits of the Kikkawa clan are honored. The guide will offer insights into Japanese religion and family shrines, and demonstrate the steps for praying at a Shinto shrine. Participants may choose to offer a quick prayer at the shrine.

There will be free time to explore the castle town independently. During this time, participants can visit local restaurants to sample specialties like Kawara soba or Iwakuni sushi.

• Iwakuni Castle - The next activity involves taking the Iwakuni ropeway to the top of Mount Shiroyama. Although brief, the ride offers stunning views of the city and the mountain’s lush vegetation, especially beautiful during spring and fall with cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.

At the mountain’s summit, the guide will lead a short walk to Iwakuni Castle. Along the way, participants can enjoy the diverse flora and the fresh mountain air. At the castle, the guide will discuss its history and connection to the Kikkawa family. Inside, participants can explore various exhibitions on each floor, concluding with a viewing platform at the top, offering another fantastic view of the city and Kintaikyo Bridge.

• Gokyo Bunko - After the castle tour and descending the mountain via the ropeway, the final activity is seal engraving. This art form was popularized in Japan by the Chinese monk Obaku Dokuryu, who also inspired the Kintaikyo Bridge’s construction. Participants can create their own unique stamp by choosing a Chinese character and carving it into a square stone. The guide will provide historical context, while experts guide the engraving process. An adjacent museum showcases art, calligraphy, and seal carving exhibits. By the end, participants will have learned a new skill and have a unique souvenir to take home.

The tour concludes with a return to Hiroshima Station.

• English speaking guide
• Ropeway Tickets
• Seal engraving experience
• Entry fees at all tour locations
• Transportation between activities (public transport)

• Lunch

Nestled in the Yamaguchi prefecture near Hiroshima, Iwakuni is a city rich in cultural and historical significance. It is renowned for the iconic Kintaikyo Bridge, one of Japan’s three most famous bridges and among the most renowned wooden bridges globally. Historically, Iwakuni thrived as a domain celebrated for its cultural accomplishments and the advancement of arts and industry. Under the governance of the Kikkawa clan, the Iwakuni castle town prospered, evolving into the stunning city it is today. Visitors can cross the remarkable Kintaikyo Bridge, wander through the picturesque Kikko Park, honor the Kikko Shrine, explore the Iwakuni castle grounds, and engage in a seal engraving experience. Discover and immerse yourself in the history, culture, and beauty of this city on a 1-day guided tour of the Iwakuni castle town.

• Tour Availability Disclaimer: All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.