Historic Hiroshima Castle: A Journey Through Time

• Helloこんにちは
  [Kon'nichiwa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayōnara]
• Yesはい
  [Hai]
• Noいいえ
  [Iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [Dōzo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [Arigatō gozaimasu]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [O-genki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話しますか？
  [Eigo o hanashimasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [Menyū o misete kudasai]
• I don't eat meat私は肉を食べません
  [Watashi wa niku o tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
• Go away!行ってください！
  [Itte kudasai!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んでください！
  [Keisatsu o yonde kudasai!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んでください！
  [Isha o yonde kudasai!]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [Michi ni mayotte imasu]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [Guai ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy......を買いたいです
  [... o kaitai desu]
• I'm just lookingただ見ています
  [Tada mite imasu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [Ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [Ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)10時半
  [Jūji han]
• Morning朝
  [Asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
• Evening夕方
  [Yūgata]
• Yesterday昨日
  [Kinō]
• Today今日
  [Kyō]
• Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
• 1一
  [Ichi]
• 2二
  [Ni]
• 3三
  [San]
• 4四
  [Yon]
• 5五
  [Go]
• 6六
  [Roku]
• 7七
  [Nana]
• 8八
  [Hachi]
• 9九
  [Kyū]
• 10十
  [Jū]

• Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [... wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Jūsho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?(地図で)見せていただけますか？
  [(Chizu de) misete itadakemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の(バス)はいつですか？
  [Tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)(...)へのチケット
  [(...) e no chiketto]

Hiroshima Castle, known as 'Rijo,' was originally constructed in 1589 by the feudal lord Mōri Terumoto as a strategic military stronghold and a symbol of power. The castle's design reflects the traditional Japanese castle architecture of the Edo period, featuring a distinctive wooden structure and multi-tiered roofs. Its location along the rivers and hills provided both defensive advantages and a picturesque backdrop.

With the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, Hiroshima Castle underwent significant changes. The castle's military importance waned as Japan shifted towards modernization and Western-style governance. In 1871, much of the castle was dismantled, and the remaining structures were repurposed for civilian use. This period marked a transition in Hiroshima's identity from a military stronghold to a burgeoning modern city.

On August 6, 1945, Hiroshima was devastated by an atomic bomb, leading to the near-total destruction of the original castle. The bomb's epicenter was only about 1.6 kilometers away, resulting in the loss of countless lives and historic buildings. The castle's ruins became a powerful symbol of the city's suffering and resilience in the aftermath of the war.

In 1958, Hiroshima Castle was reconstructed, using traditional methods and materials to restore its original appearance. The rebuilt castle serves not only as a historical monument but also as a museum, showcasing the city's rich history, culture, and the legacy of peace. The castle grounds have become a popular destination for both locals and tourists, featuring beautiful gardens and cherry blossoms in spring.

Today, Hiroshima Castle stands as a testament to the city's enduring spirit and commitment to peace. It is surrounded by a tranquil park that invites reflection and remembrance. The castle and its surrounding area are integral to understanding Hiroshima's history, offering insight into the city's feudal past, its wartime experiences, and its journey towards recovery and reconciliation.

Hiroshima Castle is located in the center of Hiroshima City. From Hiroshima Station, take the Astram Line to the Kencho-mae Station, which is a short walk from the castle. Alternatively, local buses run frequently from the station to the castle area. For visitors coming from the Peace Memorial Park, it's about a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute tram ride on the Hiroshima Electric Railway to the closest tram stop.

Once at Hiroshima Castle, the area is best explored on foot, as it's surrounded by beautiful gardens and historical sites. Bicycles can be rented from various locations around the city, and there are dedicated bike lanes. Public transport options include trams and buses, which are efficient for reaching other parts of the city.

Hiroshima is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like in any city, it's wise to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated spots. While there are no specific high-crime areas, tourists are advised to keep their belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in busy areas.

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. The Hiroshima City Hospital is nearby, and several clinics are available throughout the city. It's advisable to have travel insurance that includes health coverage. Familiarize yourself with the nearest hospital location during your visit.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, and respect local customs by dressing modestly. Religion: Do observe silence in sacred areas, particularly in shrines and temples. Public Transport: Do be mindful of others; avoid loud conversations. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do bow slightly when greeting; a handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and express gratitude for meals; don't waste food, as it's considered disrespectful.

To experience Hiroshima Castle like a local, consider visiting during the cherry blossom season in spring for breathtaking views. Engage with local vendors at food stalls around the castle for authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Try to attend local festivals held in the castle grounds, where you can experience traditional performances. Additionally, take the time to explore the surrounding Shukkeien Garden for a peaceful retreat.