Founding and early fishing settlement

Summary

Hiroshima’s origins trace back to a small fishing village on the shores of Hiroshima Bay. By the 12th century, the settlement had become relatively prosperous and was economically connected to the Zen Buddhist temple Mitaki-dera, with growth supported in part by increased trade with other parts of Japan under the Taira clan’s influence. In 1589, the region was transformed into a castle town when the warlord Mōri Terumoto established Hiroshima on the Ōta River delta coastline of the Seto Inland Sea. Hiroshima Castle was quickly built, and in 1593 Terumoto moved into the castle, marking the shift from a fishing community to a fortified political and administrative center. Later, from 1619 to 1871, the city was ruled by the Asano clan, continuing its development as an important regional hub.

Key Points

• 1

  Hiroshima began as a small fishing village along Hiroshima Bay.

• 2

  By the 12th century, the village prospered through ties to Mitaki-dera and increased trade under the Taira clan.

• 3

  In 1589, Mōri Terumoto founded Hiroshima as a castle town on the Ōta River delta.

• 4

  Hiroshima Castle was built rapidly, and Terumoto moved in during 1593.

• 5

  From 1619 to 1871, the Asano clan ruled Hiroshima, sustaining its early growth as a regional center.