In the afternoon of an early December day, I captured a breathtaking view from the top of Iwakuni Castle. Overlooking the meander Nishiki River at the castle’s base, the photo frames the bustling town below, the historic Kintaikyo Bridge with its five arches, and the expansive Seto Inland Sea in the distance.
Photo Description – A Historical Tapestry from Above
The photograph offers a panoramic view of Iwakuni, highlighting the strategic location of Iwakuni Castle, erected in 1608 by Hiroie Kikkawa, the first lord of Iwakuni Domain. The Nishiki River, flowing like a natural moat around the castle, and the Kintaikyo Bridge, which connects various parts of the town, are prominently featured. The distant view of the Seto Inland Sea and its islands adds depth to this historical landscape.
Story Behind the Photo – Capturing Iwakuni’s Legacy
Constructed on a hill approximately 200 meters high, Iwakuni Castle originally served as a formidable fortress before being dismantled seven years after its construction, due to the Tokugawa shogunate’s “one castle per province” decree in 1615. The present tower, rebuilt in 1962, offers a vantage point that encompasses Yoshikawa Park, the town, Kintaikyo Bridge, Iwakuni Air Base, Iwakuni Kintaikyo Airport, and even distant sights like Miyajima Island.
From an Amateur Photographer’s Perspective – Linking Present Beauty with Historical Context
From the vantage point of the castle tower, I endeavored to capture a photo that not only showcases the present beauty of Iwakuni but also serves as a window into the history of Iwakuni Castle and the domain. This image is a tribute to the legacy of the region, intertwining its rich history with the modern landscape.
Equipment and EXIF Information
- Camera: FUJIFILM X-T4
- Lens: XF16-80mmF4 R OIS WR
- Shutter Speed: 1/950s
- Aperture: ƒ8
- ISO: ISO 1000
- Exposure Value: 0 EV
Location