Kikko Park — Samurai Gardens and White Snakes

**Cherry blossom timing (late March–early April):** Kikko Park's 500 cherry trees (mostly Somei Yoshino) bloom concurrently with trees framing Kintaikyo Bridge, creating a pink continuum from bridge to park. Peak bloom lasts 5–7 days (dates vary annually; check Iwakuni City tourism in mid-March). The park hosts evening illumination (18:00–22:00) during bloom, extending crowds into night but creating magical lantern-lit atmosphere. Arrive early morning (7:00–9:00) for crowd-free photography. **White snake encounter:** The White Snake Museum (シロヘビの館, ¥200) displays 5–8 live albino snakes in glass enclosures, explaining the genetic mutation and conservation efforts. The snakes are docile and surprisingly beautiful — pure white scales, ruby-red eyes, 1.5m length. Outdoor habitats around the park house additional colonies. The snakes are considered fortune-bringers, so spotting one freely (rare, but possible) is auspicious. Don't attempt to touch or handle — they're protected and sacred. **Samurai residences:** The park contains two preserved samurai residences: Kikkawa Museum (吉川資料館, ¥500, displays Kikkawa clan artifacts and armor) and Meirinkan Samurai School (明倫館, free, Edo-period educational facility). Both provide context for Iwakuni's feudal history under the Kikkawa clan (branch of the powerful Mori clan). Combined with Kintaikyo Bridge and Iwakuni Castle, these sites create full-day immersion in Edo-period castle town culture. **Efficient routing:** Enter Kikko Park from Kintaikyo Bridge → White Snake Museum (20 min) → Kikkawa Museum (30 min) → park stroll (20 min) → exit via ropeway to Iwakuni Castle (90 min including ropeway and castle) → return and cross Kintaikyo Bridge. Total 4 hours. Alternatively, skip castle and focus on park + bridge for 2-hour visit.