Guida
Fukuyama Castle is a modern reconstruction of a classic early modern castle, originally built in 1622 by the daimyo Katsunari Mizuno. The castle complex features a five-story main keep (tenshu), seven triple turrets (miyagura), and 14 double turrets (nijiyagura), all surrounded by a sophisticated double moat system. Its most striking feature is the iron plating covering the entire north face of the main keep—a unique defensive design found nowhere else in Japan. Today, the site preserves precious historical structures such as the Fushimi Yagura and Sujitetsu Go-mon, maintaining the authentic atmosphere of the Edo period.
The castle was established by Katsunari Mizuno, a high-ranking vassal related to the Tokugawa family. After moving from Yamato Koriyama, he spent approximately three years completing this grand fortification. The castle town culture even includes traditions like the "Tondo" festival to celebrate the castle's completion. Although many structures were lost during the Meiji era and the 1945 air raids on Fukuyama, the main keep was faithfully reconstructed in 1966. It remains a symbol of Fukuyama City, representing both its political past and its modern identity.
There are several must-see structures within the grounds. First is the iconic main keep with its rare iron-plated north wall. Second is the Fushimi Yagura, a highly valuable structure believed to have been relocated from Fushimi Castle. The Sujitetsu Go-mon serves as the grand entrance to the inner sanctum, while the Kane-yagura (Bell Turret) still rings the time bell four times a day, a designated Important Cultural Property. Other notable sites include the Tsukimi Yagura (Moon-viewing Turret) for panoramic views, the Oyu-dono (Bathhouse) used by the lords, and the Kagami Yagura, which houses historical documents and exhibits.
The castle offers different atmospheres depending on when you visit. The nighttime illuminations are particularly spectacular, casting a magical glow over the stone walls and the main keep. Please note that the road crossing the north side of the castle is closed to traffic from 23:00 to 06:00. Visiting during the autumn months (October to December) allows you to see the historical architecture beautifully harmonized with the changing seasonal scenery.
Inside the main keep, visitors can explore detailed exhibits regarding castle architecture and local history. Walking through the various gates and turrets provides a tactile sense of the former castle town's layout. You can also experience local culture through food, such as the famous "Tondo Manju" sweets associated with the castle's history. The Oyu-dono area offers a glimpse into the daily lifestyle of the ruling class during the Edo period.
The area surrounding the castle is rich in hospitality. To the east, the Vessel Inn Fukuyama Ekimae offers rooms with views of the castle-keep. To the south, the Fukuyama New Castle Hotel provides guests with a stunning view of the castle walls and the Tsukimi Yagura from their rooms. The neighborhood is also filled with local restaurants serving fresh, seasonal seafood, making it easy to combine a historical tour with a culinary experience.
As the castle involves climbing stairs to reach the upper floors of the keep, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. The main keep is open from 09:00 to 17:00 (closing at 16:30 or 16:00 depending on the season from October to March) and is closed on Mondays. While the outer grounds are open 24 hours, please be cautious when walking at night as the lighting in the inner areas is limited. Additionally, remember that the north-side road is closed to vehicles between 23:00 and 06:00.