Hiroshima Castle's tower, which was externally reconstructed in 1958 as the third-generation structure, will close on March 22, 2026, due to aging and deterioration. To ensure visitor safety and prevent accidents during the final days, special crowd management measures will be implemented.
The future of the tower remains undecided, with options including wooden reconstruction and seismic reinforcement currently under consideration. However, other areas such as the Ninomaru restored buildings, Sannomaru area, and the Hiroshima Castle pleasure boat will continue to operate after the tower closure.
Facility Information
Hiroshima Castle Tower
Location: 21-1 Motomachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Special Measures Period and Opening Hours
Period: March 20 (Fri/Holiday), 21 (Sat), and 22 (Sun), 2026 (3 days total)
Hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Last admission: 6:30 PM)
Regular March hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekends and holidays (last admission 30 minutes before closing)
Crowd Management Measures
During the above period, numbered tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure safe and reliable admission for all visitors. Admission tickets cannot be purchased without a numbered ticket.
Distribution: Up to 4,000 visitors per day (one numbered ticket per group)
Distribution/Reception Location: Special tent at the Honmaru upper level (below the tower platform)
Distribution Start Time: 8:30 AM each day
Tower Entry Method:
- Visitors will be admitted according to the entry time written on their numbered ticket (200 people every 30 minutes)
- Entry will be guided sequentially based on the numbered ticket order, not by preferred time
- Discount-eligible visitors and groups will also follow the numbered ticket system
Photography and Videography:
For safety reasons, visitors are requested to refrain from taking photos or videos from the South Small Tower Platform (near the tower entrance) or the stairs below the tower without entering the tower itself. (Excluding media personnel)
Closing Ceremony
Date and Time: March 22 (Sun), 2026, starting at 7:30 PM
Location: Honmaru upper level (below the tower platform)
Additional Information
Japan 100 Famous Castles Stamp Station:
From March 20 to 22, 2026, the stamp station will be relocated near the special tent below the tower.
Closing Commemoration Events:
Information will be shared on Hiroshima Castle's official Instagram.
Recommended Photography Spots (Other Than South Small Tower Platform)
*Note: On March 21 (Sat), the East Small Tower and foundation stones in the Honmaru upper level will be temporarily off-limits due to the Iwakuni Domain Firearms Preservation Society demonstration.
For more information, visit the official Hiroshima Castle website or follow their Instagram account.
