Okayama Castle, also known as “Okayama-jo” in Japanese, is a historic castle in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture. It is one of the most famous castles in the country and is often referred to as the “Crow Castle” (Karasu-jo) due to its distinctive black exterior. The dark colour was chosen to make the castle less visible from a distance, enhancing its defensive capabilities.
Built-in 1597 by Ukita Naoie, a powerful feudal lord, Okayama Castle served as a strategic defence structure during Japan’s Sengoku period (Warring States period). The castle was strategically positioned along the Asahi river, which was used as a natural moat.
Inside the castle, visitors can explore various exhibition rooms and galleries that showcase historical artifacts, including armor, weapons, and samurai relics. The top floor offers panoramic views of Okayama City and the surrounding landscape, providing a picturesque scene, especially during cherry blossom season.
Okayama Castle is surrounded by Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. The garden is renowned for its meticulous landscape design, featuring walking paths, ponds, tea houses, and traditional bridges. The castle and garden together create a harmonious setting and are considered one of Okayama’s most iconic attractions.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 9:00am-5:30pm ( 5:00pm Last Entry)
- 400JPY (640JPY with combined ticket of Castle and Korakuen Garden)
- Average Time Spent: 1 hour
- Official Website
Accessing Okayama Castle
The Okayama Castle 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.
Where To Stay
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The JR Rail Pass makes getting around the country easy, and can save you several hundreds in travel expenses. All you need to do is just show your pass at the ticket gate, and you have access to any and all JR rail lines across the country, and not just the standard commuter trains, but luxury trains, and even the world famous Shikansen (Bullet Train). A JR Rail Pass is an essential item for any visitor to Japan. Buy your pass today by clicking here now!
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