Fukuyama Castle, Bat Castle

Perched in the heart of the city of Fukuyama, in Hiroshima Prefecture, this singular castle attracts as much by its elegance as by its intriguing nickname: the bat castle. Often overshadowed by the country’s most famous castles, however, it offers an enriching experience for curious travellers wishing to explore a more confidential Japan, accessible by train and ideal on a route through the inland sea of Seto.

Travelling to Hiroshima

Origins and evolution of a strategic fortress

Built in 1622 by Mizuno Katsunari, close ally of Tokugawa Shogunate, Fukuyama Castle was to ensure regional stability and protect maritime trade routes. Its position, between the mountains and the inland sea, made it possible to effectively control traffic. Although part of the original structure has disappeared over time, the whole remains an important witness to the architecture and political organization of the Edo era.

The dungeon rebuilt in 1966 respects the aesthetics of the original fortress while now housing a museum dedicated to local history. This blend of architectural authenticity and contemporary presentation offers a clear reading of the role of the castle in Fukuyama’s economy and culture.

Why is it called the bat castle?

The association between the castle of Fukuyama and the bat comes from the ancient name of the hill on which it was built: Komoriyama, literally “mountain of the bat”.

This symbolic bond was strengthened in the early twentieth century when the city adopted in 1917 an emblem representing a stylized bat superimposed on a mountainous shape.

This motif, already surprising for a Japanese castle, attracted attention far beyond the region. His resemblance to Batman’s modern iconography resulted in a friendship agreement between Fukuyama and Gotham City, the fictional city of the world of the famous vigilante, in 2022. This initiative, both fun and identity, marked the 400th anniversary of the castle and coincided with the release of the filmThe Batman. The result: a castle full of history, enriched by a contemporary cultural nod that amuses visitors as much as it intrigues.

What we discover inside the dungeon

The castle museum presents armor, weapons, historical documents and objects related to the families that governed the region. The visit offers an educational progression that allows to understand the political alliances, the local war strategies and the evolution of Fukuyama over the centuries.

The top floor offers a panoramic view of the city: an excellent observation point to capture current urban planning and measure the contrast between feudal heritage and contemporary dynamism. In clear weather, the inland sea can be seen on the horizon, adding a useful geographical dimension for those planning a route around Onomichi, Tomonoura or Miyajima.

An architecture to explore in detail

The castle is distinguished by a solid main tower, imposing ramparts and an arrangement designed to resist the seats. The carefully restored stone wall makes it possible to observe the construction techniques inherited from the master tailors of the time. The surrounding gardens are pleasant for a walk, especially in the spring when cherry trees surround the fortress with delicate shades.

Doors, some of which have passed through the centuries, provide a benchmark for understanding the defences and hierarchy of spaces. For travelers passionate about architecture or photography, each angle reveals an interesting perspective without excessive crowds.

Simple and ideal access for a train trip

One of the major assets of Fukuyama Castle is its accessibility. Located right next to Fukuyama Station, on the Shinkansen Sanyo line, it is a strategic stop for a route between Hiroshima, Okama or Himeji. This proximity makes it easy to integrate into a day of discovery without logistical constraints.

For travellers using a JR Pass, the stop at Fukuyama is particularly simple and allows to diversify its course by discovering a castle less frequented but fully authentic in its atmosphere.

What to see around the castle

The surrounding area is home to several points of interest related to local history. The Fukuyama Art Museum, located in the castle park, offers various exhibitions. A few minutes away, the Gokoku Shrine and shopping streets allow you to observe the daily lives of the inhabitants and take a gourmet break.

For those who follow a route around the inland sea, Fukuyama also serves as a point of access to Tomonoura, a port village appreciated for its landscapes, temples and sweetness of life.

Exploring Fukuyama Castle is a rich history marked by unique aesthetic choices and a strategic geographical location. This tour allows you to discover a more discreet but deeply captivating Japan, ideal for travelling otherwise and enriching a discovery of the Hiroshima region.

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