Fukuyama Castle Museum

Located in front of Fukuyama Station in Hiroshima Prefecture, this history museum is housed within the keep of Fukuyama Castle. Built in 1622 by Katsunari Mizuno, a cousin of Tokugawa Ieyasu, Fukuyama Castle is a designated site on the "Japan's Top 100 Castles" list, renowned for its majestic appearance. In 2022, the castle underwent a significant renovation, including the unique recreation of the iron-plated north side of the keep. The museum features state-of-the-art visuals and interactive exhibits, making the history of Fukuyama Castle and its domain engaging for all visitors.

The museum spans six floors, starting with an impressive wall-sized video that introduces the castle's history and architecture, offering a welcoming and informative start for first-time visitors. The exhibits include samurai armor, weapons, and documents related to the Mizuno and Abe families, the castle's historic lords, providing a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Interactive sections allow visitors to experience history firsthand. The "First Spear Race" uses a horseback simulator to reenact Katsunari Mizuno’s courageous actions during the Summer Siege of Osaka in 1615. Meanwhile, the "Matchlock Experience" lets guests handle replica firearms, offering a glimpse into the martial skills of the samurai.

The top-floor observation deck provides a panoramic view of Fukuyama's cityscape, offering a spectacular conclusion to the visit.