After WWII, the stone walls and moat of Hiroshima-jō (広島城; hiroshimacastle.jp) were all that was left of a sprawling castle compound from 1589. A replica of the main tower was completed in 1958. It's now a museum with historic items and impressive 5th-floor views over the moat.
The surrounding park grounds make a pleasant (and free) stroll. Enter from the east or south. Next to the Main Gate Bridge over the moat is the imposing Ninomaru, a point of defense from which invaders could be attacked with arrows.
The Aki Hiroshima Busho-Tai – nine performers in colorful Mōri-clan samurai costumes – parade through the castle park on Saturdays at 1pm or 3pm, and give swordplay displays in Ninomaru on Sundays at 1.30pm and 3pm.
