Remembering the Past in Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan

The afternoon of our ninth day in Japan was dedicated to remembering the past by visiting the city of Hiroshima.

Our first stop was the Hiroshima Castle, nicknamed the Carp Castle. The castle stands in an area that used to be called Koi-no-ura, which means Carp (Koi) Sea Shore, hence the nickname.

Like all castles, Hiroshima Castle is surrounded by a moat. The castle tower that stands now is a reconstruction (the original was destroyed in 1945). The castle is five stories tall and is now used as a museum. The first floor is mainly about Hiroshima Castle; the second floor is about life in the castle town, including replicas of a tea house, a merchant house, and a samurai house; the third floor displays Samurai weapons and armours (the most interesting exhibit for me); the fourth floor is for exhibits about Hiroshima's history and culture; and the fifth floor serves as an observation deck. Taking of photos inside are only allowed in few select areas (like the area where you can dress up as a samurai). ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).