Iwakuni

Iwakuni, located in Yamaguchi Prefecture in Japan, is a city that attracts tourists with its rich history and distinctive sites. One of the most recognizable attractions is the Kintaikyo Bridge, built in 1673. It consists of five arches and is considered an engineering marvel due to its unique design. At any time of year, particularly during cherry blossom season, the areas around the bridge become a meeting place for both locals and tourists. Iwakuni also features a castle, Iwakuni-jō, built on Yokoyama Hill. It offers panoramic views of the city and the Nishiki River valley. Although the original castle was destroyed, the building reconstructed in 1962 allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of the region. The museum located in the castle showcases artifacts related to samurai and the history of this part of Japan. Another interesting feature is the white samurai village, where traditional houses from centuries ago can be seen. The city is also known for its production of white eels, which are a local delicacy served in many restaurants. For aviation enthusiasts, Iwakuni is a short distance from an American military base, occasionally allowing one to see military aircraft training. Iwakuni is not only about history and architecture, but also offers an authentic experience of Japanese culture in a less commercial setting, making a visit there a memorable experience.