Korakuen Gardens, in Okayama city, are a restored Japanese garden used several centuries ago. The gardens are one of Japan’s most beautiful garden landscapes, among other gardens such as Kenroku-en of Ishikawa Prefecture, and Kairakuen in Ibaraki Prefecture.
Korakuen Gardens became a main feature of the Okayama Castle when they completed construction in the year 1700, by the Lord of Okayama, Ikeda Tsunamasa. The Construction of the gardens took approximately 14 years to complete.
Back then, entry to the gardens was exclusive, and the average member of society rarely set foot in the gardens. Now a days, obviously the story is very different. In the Late 1800’s the Korakuen Garden became public property, and the ownership transferred to the city of Okayama, which is why so many people can enjoy the gardens today.
During World War 2, Okayama castle and Okayama Korakuen suffered the consequences of war, and met the fate that many other cultural artifacts experienced. Fortuately, the original design plans and construction notes have been preserved, so the gardens and castle were able to be rebuilt very similarly to the original design.
Throughout the gardens, you will find shrines, koi ponds, Japanese trees, tea houses and other historical buildings, making this a great place to spend an hour or 2 wondering the 14ha of area these gardens have claim to. With it also being so close to Okayama Castle, you mind as well take the short couple minute walk to Korokuen Gardens and enjoy the scenery.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 7:30am - 6:00pm ( Late March through September) 8:00am- 5:00pm (October through early March)
- 400JPY (640JPY with combined Castle ticket)
- Average Time Spent: 1 hour
- Official Website
Accessing Korakuen Gardens
The Okayama Korakuen Garden is located directly to the east of Okayama Station. It is about a 20 minute walk from the central station, but there are street cars which regularly run to and from the station and will only cost about 300JPY return. The street cars will reduce travel time to about 5-10 minutes
Okayama station services the bullet train, which allows for the Okayama Castle and Korakuen Gardens to be accessed as a quickly little rest stop to stretch the legs and to break up the journey a tad. It’s especially helpful if you have a Japan Rail Pass, which allows for you to come and go off the bullet trains as you please.
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Where to Stay
Okayama View Hotel
Experience comfort and convenience at the Okayama View Hotel, offering modern amenities, prime location, and exceptional service.
Hotel Granvia Okayama
Modern and stylish hotel directly connected to JR Okayama Station for easy explore of the city.
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The OneFive Okayama
Budget hotel with affordable prices and ideal location nearby some of Okayama's top sights.
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