Iwakuni, Industrial hub in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Iwakuni is a port city in Yamaguchi Prefecture on southeastern Japan's coast with access to the Seto Inland Sea. The city is shaped by the Nishiki River and centered around its historic wooden bridge that links the downtown area to forested hills.
The Kikkawa clan gained control of the area after the Battle of Sekigahara around 1600 and built Iwakuni Castle as a regional stronghold. This castle and its surrounding settlement became the center of local authority and continue to define the area's character today.
The Kintai Bridge dominates the local identity and draws crowds during spring when cherry blossoms frame its wooden arches. Residents view this structure as the heart of their city and pass through it regularly as part of daily life.
The city has multiple hotels and guesthouses in various price ranges, many clustered near the bridge and train station for convenience. Wear comfortable shoes as walking through the hilly areas and reaching the castle involves considerable climbing.
During summer months, local fishermen on the Nishiki River practice traditional cormorant fishing, a method passed down for over 13 generations. These nighttime catches using trained birds have become rare and survive in only a few places across Japan.
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