Iwakuni Private Day Trip: Kintaikyo Bridge & Castle
480
Overview
The Iwakuni Day Trip from Hiroshima offers a personalized exploration of Iwakuni's gems via private car. This tour is great for travelers who want a custom experience to see iconic landmarks at their own pace.
What to Expect: The day begins with a comfortable ride to the famous Kintaikyo Bridge. This bridge is known for its five beautiful wooden arches. After crossing the bridge, visitors can wander through Kikko Park, a peaceful area with gardens and historical spots. Another stop is the Former Mekata Residence, a place that shows how people lived long ago. The tour also includes a trip up Mount Shiroyama by ropeway, leading to Iwakuni Castle. From there, you can see amazing views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
This private car tour includes lunch at a traditional local restaurant. Admission fees to the attractions and a licensed English-speaking guide are also included. Personal expenses are not included. Explore Iwakuni with ease and enjoy a memorable journey through history and nature.




Highlights
See the Famous Kintaikyo Bridge: Walk across this special bridge with five wooden arches.
Visit Iwakuni Castle: Ride a ropeway up to the castle and see amazing views.
Explore Kikko Park: Take a walk in this pretty park with gardens and history.
Enjoy a Private Car: Travel in comfort with your own driver and guide.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the private tour of Iwakuni. They especially liked the Kintaikyo Bridge and Iwakuni Castle, and appreciated the convenience of having a private car and guide. Some wished for more time at the attractions, and a few were not impressed with the lunch.

Customers loved having a private car and driver to take them around.
Many enjoyed the beautiful views from Iwakuni Castle.
Visitors thought the Kintaikyo Bridge was amazing and worth seeing.
The guide was helpful and spoke English well.
Some visitors wished they had more time at each stop.
A few people thought the lunch was just okay.
The Journey
Kintaikyo Bridge
Behold the iconic Kintaikyo Bridge, a masterpiece of Edo-period engineering and one of Japan's most celebrated landmarks. This five-arched wooden bridge gracefully spans the Nishiki River, offering a picturesque scene against the backdrop of Iwakuni Castle. Originally built in 1673 to withstand floods, its nail-less design and wave-like silhouette continue to captivate visitors. Stroll across its elegant arches, especially enchanting during cherry blossom season, summer cormorant fishing, or autumn's vibrant foliage, and experience a true symbol of Iwakuni.
Kikko Park
Escape to the tranquility of Kikko Park, a scenic oasis just a short walk from Kintaikyo Bridge. Formerly the residence of the Yoshikawa clan, feudal lords of Iwakuni, the park retains historical charm with structures like the Mekata Family Residence and Kinunkaku Pavilion. Wander through diverse garden areas showcasing stunning seasonal flora, from plum and cherry blossoms to azaleas, irises, hydrangeas, and breathtaking autumn colors. Kikko Park provides a serene retreat into nature and history.
Mekata Residence
Step back in time at the Mekata Residence, a remarkably preserved mid-18th-century samurai home. As an Important Cultural Property of Japan, this middle-class residence offers a rare glimpse into the lives of samurai beyond the battlefield. Explore the traditional architecture and authentic details, which provide a tangible connection to the past. Experience the quiet dignity and refined simplicity of Edo-period samurai life within the walls of this historical treasure.
Iwakuni Castle
Ascend to Iwakuni Castle, perched atop Mount Shiroyama, for breathtaking panoramic views. This reconstructed castle, originally built in the early 17th century, offers a spectacular vantage point overlooking Iwakuni city, the iconic Kintaikyo Bridge, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and even Shikoku on clear days. Explore the castle's exhibits, showcasing the history of the Yoshikawa clan and the region. Whether admiring the scenery or delving into local history, Iwakuni Castle promises an unforgettable experience.
Know Before You Go
This private day trip includes a delicious traditional lunch, all admission fees to attractions, a comfortable private car for transportation, and a licensed English-speaking guide to enhance the experience. Please note that personal expenses are not covered in the tour package. The tour starts with a convenient pickup at your desired location in Hiroshima. After a full day of exploration, you will be dropped off back at your initial pickup point.
Hot Tip
Some past visitors suggest allowing more time at each location to fully enjoy the sights. It might be a good idea to discuss your preferred pace with your guide at the beginning of the tour.