Iwakuni

① Climate

Source: JMA normals 1991–2020 / Iwakuni station

• Annual mean temperature: 16.3 °C
• Warmest month (avg): August ~ 28.1 °C / Coldest month (avg): January ~ 5.6 °C
• Relative humidity: Max July ~ 83% / Min February ~ 68%
• Annual snowfall: Little (0 to a few cm)
• Sunshine hours: Longest around Oct–Nov
• Annual precipitation: ~ 1,710 mm (Most: July ~ 250 mm / Least: January ~ 65 mm)

② Landforms

 Located in eastern Yamaguchi: Seto Inland Sea to the south, mountains of the Chugoku range to the north.
 The Nishiki River flows through the center, shaping emblematic clear streams and valleys.
 The north is mountainous, including peaks such as Rakan-zan and Jakuchi-san.
 The south features deltas and plains opening toward Iwakuni Bay.

③ Industry

 Ports, manufacturing, and logistics alongside tourism, farming, forestry, and fisheries. Tourism is anchored by Kintaikyo and the castle-town scenery.
Local specialties

• Iwakuni-zushi: A layered pressed sushi served in wooden boxes.
• Iwakuni lotus root: Noted for numerous holes and crisp texture.
• Local sake: Breweries drawing on the Nishiki River watershed.

④ Culture & Local Traditions

 Castle-town culture from the Iwakuni domain lives on, with festivals and arts centered on Kintaikyo.
 Conservation of the white snake and crafts such as swords, washi paper, and woodwork remain.
 Life and tourism attuned to the seasons across sea, river, and mountains coexist.

• Kintaikyo Festival: Spring celebrations with warrior parades and traditional rites.
• Iwakuni Festival: A lively, city-wide autumn event.
• Kintaikyo Fireworks: Summer fireworks (held depending on the year).