Originally built in 1589 by warlord Mōri Terumoto, Hiroshima Castle stood for over three centuries before being destroyed on 6 August 1945 by the atomic bomb (the castle was also used as a military headquarters). The five-storey keep was reconstructed in ferro-concrete in 1958 and now houses a museum on the history of the castle town and feudal-period life, with samurai armour, weapons, and artefacts. Climb to the top floor for views over the city.
The moat and surviving stonework are original. The grounds are pleasant to wander and contain several smaller shrines. Open 9:00–18:00 (to 17:00 December–February). Entry ¥370.