[2024 Okayama Attraction] Travel Guide for Okayama Castle (Updated Sep)

Okayama, Korakuen Garden and cultural zone !!

Okayama, one of my favourite city in Japan and I always try to reach out while I am in Japan.Okayama is located in west Japan and largest city in its prefecture and home to the imposing, black Okayama Castle and Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan's three greatest landscape gardens.Beautiful landscapes, famous castle and famous for all its fruits . After I left Fukuoka, I took Shinkansen ( Sakura 551- one of JR train ) up to Okayama. Keep my luggage in one of coin locker and get a bus No 18 from just outside of train station . Get down at Korakuen main gate , get a ticket for Okayama Cultural Zone ticket , it cost me 520¥ and start explore Okayama Prefecture museum and continue to Korakuen Garden ( famous for coin fish pond and beautiful landscape) and get out by South Gate and continue to Okayama Castle. Then walk out to nearest 🚋 station and back to Okayama train station, have my lunch , took my luggage from coin locker and continue my journey to Hiroshima. See you on the other side of the world 🤭🤭. #japan #naturelover #solotravel

The Taotaro city of Mt. Okayama is one of the big cities in the Sanyang area. Okayama City is really a city where everywhere! In addition to the airport named "Momotaro", the statue of Momotaro in front of JR station, the super nice fountain, the cartoon train that runs every day in the city, and the buses of various themes, the most spoken in the city every day is: card Wow! ! ! I have been to many cities with castle towers. I can't miss Okayama Castle when I come to Okayama, and Okayama City is actually the first place where I spend money. I have to commemorate it! Not far from Okayama Castle is one of Japan's three famous gardens! I have misunderstood the collection of the three famous gardens in Japan: Kanazawa's Kenroku Park, Takamatsu's Kuribay Park, and Okayama's Korakuen! Overall, I really like this kind of returning garden! Tour tips: Take JR to Okayama Station and you will see the Momotaro statue in front of the station! Okayama Castle is a 20-minute walk from JR Okayama Station and can be reached by tram! Korakuen is next to Okayama Castle, you can buy tickets for two places!

The Charm of Okayama Castle: A Beautiful Revival of History and Modernity

Okayama Castle, also known as Ujo (Crow Castle), is a major landmark in the Okayama area. Originally built in the 16th century, it has stood the test of time and numerous wars, witnessing the vicissitudes of Japanese history. Recently, Okayama Castle underwent a major renovation, giving it a fresh new look both inside and out. The entire castle features unique black exterior walls, resembling a crow ready to take flight, hence the name 'Crow Castle.' 🚩Renovated Okayama Castle: A Perfect Blend of Classic and Modern Stepping into the renovated Okayama Castle, one can feel the intriguing blend of history and modernity. The restored walls exude an elegant ancient charm, while the interior cleverly incorporates modern exhibition facilities and interactive experiences. Visitors can delve into the castle's construction process and the lives of samurais through multimedia displays and 3D models. Notably, the exhibits at Okayama Castle are not limited to war and military history but also include numerous artifacts related to civilian life, showcasing the diverse aspects of society at the time. This design makes the visit both educational and enjoyable, enhancing one's understanding of history while keeping the experience engaging. 🎉Okayama Castle at Night: A Romantic Time Where Lights and History Intertwine If the grandeur of Okayama Castle during the day attracts visitors, then the romantic allure of Crow Castle at night is an absolute must-see. As night falls, the castle is illuminated by carefully designed lighting, presenting a different kind of charm. The soft lights cast a gentle glow on the black walls, seemingly breathing life into the ancient structure, giving it a mysterious and profound radiance. The special nighttime opening hours allow visitors to savor the unique beauty of this historic castle in a tranquil atmosphere. Strolling through the castle at night, one can feel the serenity and beauty of the intertwining night and ancient architecture, as if walking through a captivating painting. 👍Activities and Experiences: In-depth Exploration of History and Culture Okayama Castle is not just about historical artifacts; it also regularly hosts various interactive activities that allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of local history and culture. For instance, on specific holidays or weekends, the castle holds time-travel events where visitors can dress up as ancient samurais or princesses and take their own 'historical crossover photos.' Additionally, there are tea ceremony experiences and traditional Japanese crafts activities, offering a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture. These activities not only attract numerous families and tourists but also leave everyone with unforgettable memories. 📍Transportation and Tips: Comfortable and Convenient Travel Experience Okayama Castle is conveniently located, just a few minutes' drive from Okayama Station, making it very accessible for tourists. It is recommended to spend half a day to a full day exploring this ancient castle, along with nearby attractions such as Korakuen Garden or Okayama Museum of Art, to fully experience the diverse charm of Okayama. If time permits, be sure to schedule a nighttime visit to enjoy the unique nightscape of Crow Castle. 🚩Conclusion: A Must-Visit for History Enthusiasts and Travelers The renovation of Okayama Castle not only restored its grandeur but also provided more opportunities for people to get up close and personal with this piece of history. Whether you are a traveler who loves Japanese history and culture or someone looking for a unique travel experience, Okayama Castle is definitely worth a visit. Here, you can feel the weight of history and the convenience of modernity, appreciate the solemnity of the ancient castle and the romance of its night view. This charming Crow Castle will undoubtedly add an unforgettable chapter to your journey. 🔵Transportation Guide: Accessible by bus or tram 🟢Must-Visit Spots: Okayama Castle, Special Nighttime Opening 🟡Recommended Hotels: Okayama Koraku Hotel 🟠Must-Try Foods: Vegetable Curry, Station Food Street 🔴Shopping Guide: Grape and Peach Products

The Crow Castle

#traveldiaries Known as “Ujo” or the Crow Castle due to its black exterior, Okayama Castle stands majestically near the Asahi River. The castle has been reconstructed, offering a modern museum inside that showcases samurai history and culture, as well as interactive exhibits. Tips: • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to catch the golden sunset light on the castle. • What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for climbing to the top floor. • Don’t Miss: The chance to wear a samurai costume and take photos in the castle.

Experience Hakone from Okayama (Jan 2024)

For our trip to Hakone, we stayed at Okayama and bought the Hakone area pass which was valid for 3 days. This gave us unlimited travels within the designated area which helps to save some cost from accommodations in Hakone itself. However, we had to plan ahead and spare more time for our programme and itinerary in Hakone. We also visited Okayama castle just before returning back to Tokyo on our last day in Hakone-Okayama. From Okayama, we travelled to Hakone via bus, train, and tram etc. We also managed to ride the iconic Hakone ship to take the cable car up to a viewpoint of Mt. Fuji. Hakone is also a very popular spot for viewing of Mt. Fuji, apart from Kawaguchiko. We spent a total of about 2 trips over 1.5 days to cover 80% of Hakone. We took the Romancecar from Shinjuku to Okayama and back using the same route. Overall, our experience in Hakone was a memorable one even though we didn’t manage to see the skywalk and bridge as our travel period fell during the closure period of the sky bridge but we did get to go to Gotemba Premium Outlets where we had a close up view of Mt. Fuji (see images). #hakone2024 #japan2024

Ferry from Shodoushima to Okayama 🇯🇵

#cherryblossom2024 🛳️ My journey on the ferry from Shodoshima to Okayama was a scenic adventure filled with stunning views and tranquil moments. The price for the ferry ticket was quite reasonable, offering a budget-friendly way to travel between these two picturesque destinations. As the ferry departed from Shodoshima, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea surrounding us. The calm waters, dotted with small islands and fishing boats, created a serene atmosphere that was perfect for relaxation. Standing on the deck, I felt the gentle sea breeze against my face as we glided through the water. It was a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. During the journey, I had plenty of opportunities to soak in the breathtaking views of the coastline and distant mountains. The changing colors of the sky as the sun began to set painted a picture-perfect scene that I will never forget. I spent some time capturing the beauty of the scenery on my camera, trying to preserve the memory of this magical experience. Upon arriving in Okayama, I was greeted by the vibrant energy of the city. There are plenty of attractions nearby to explore, including the famous Okayama Castle and the enchanting Korakuen Garden, known as one of Japan's three great gardens. After disembarking from the ferry, I took a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the lively atmosphere and soaking up the local culture. Overall, my journey on the ferry from Shodoshima to Okayama was a delightful experience that exceeded my expectations. It offered not only a convenient mode of transportation but also an opportunity to immerse myself in the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful voyage, this ferry ride is sure to leave a lasting impression. 🌊⛴️ #FerryTravel #SetoInlandSea #Okayama #Shodoshima #ScenicViews #TravelAdventure

#cherryblossom2024 Okayama castle

Stunning Shining Okayama Sakura Hanami

#cherryblossom2024 Stunning gardens, a majestic castle and the ancient Kurashiki Canal district Okayama Prefecture is known for its delicious fruits. It is often called the Land of Sunshine, and Momotaro, the "peach boy", is considered a local hero and symbol. Okayama, the capital and largest city of the prefecture, is home to the castle of the same name with impressive black walls and the Koraku Garden, one of the three best landscape parks in Japan. The historic commercial city of Kurashiki, famous for its canals, is located not far from the capital. Okayama is the capital and largest city of the prefecture of the same name. It faces south to the island of Shikoku and the Inland Sea of Japan. There is a curious "Crow Castle" and the traditional Koraku garden, which is considered one of the three best among its kind. The nearby town of Kurashiki is famous for its canals and beautifully preserved urban landscapes of the Edo period. The weather is almost always good here. Okayama is called the "Land of Sunshine": they say there are more clear days here than anywhere else in the country. Factories of several of the world's most famous denim fabric manufacturers operate in Kojima. From Okayama, you can get to the island of contemporary art, Naoshima, located in neighboring Kagawa Prefecture. How to get Okayama is easily accessible by JR Tokaido-Sanyo shinkansen from Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima. You can also fly to Okayama International Airport, take a local train or an intercity bus. I recommend Take a walk through the historical Bikan quarter in Kuroshiki. Explore Koraku-en, one of the three best gardens in Japan. Visit Okayama Castle and admire the surrounding views. Try the local delicacy — kibi dango sweets made from mochi rice. Spring. It's time to admire the blossoms on Sakura Alley along the Asahi River in Okayama City and walk through the colorful Takenomori Park in the north of Okayama. The most popular places in Okayama are the "Crow Castle" and the Koraku Garden, standing on opposite sides of the river. There is a bridge between them. The "Crow Castle" owes its name to the black walls. The six floors of the fortress rise majestically above the river and the city. The quiet and beautiful Koraku Garden on the other side of the river was built at the behest of the local ruler. It is difficult to imagine here that great battles once thundered in this territory. Koraku-en is one of the best landscape parks in Japan. Streamlines and footpaths wind through carefully manicured lawns, rice and tea fields. Cherries and other trees grow in the garden. There is a pond and a bird aviary.

Okayama is the hometown of Momotaro

🐕Okayama Prefecture is famous for its rural scenery, where Kurashiki and picturesque canals are located. It is also convenient to go to Naoshima and Shodoshima from Okayama. . 🐒Okayama Prefecture is also known as the 'Hometown of Momotaro'. Momotaro is a child who popped out of a peach core. With the help of monkeys, pheasants, and puppies, he defeated the man-eating monsters. There is a statue of Momotaro in the square of Okayama Railway Station (Figure 3️⃣), and the most popular souvenir in Okayama is also Momotaro's favorite dessert—millet dumplings🍡 . 🐓The must-see attractions in Okayama Prefecture include: 🍑Korakuen: One of the three major gardens in Japan. 🍑Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: The capital of Japanese cultural heritage. It takes 15 minutes to get there from Okayama Station by JR Sanyo Main Line or Hakubi Line. 🍑Okayama Castle: Located on the opposite side of Korakuen, it is a five-story six-layer building and one of the oldest castles in Japan. 🍑Day trips to Naoshima, Shodoshima, Teshima, and Inujima. 🍑Tsuruyama: Tsuruyama Park under the ruins of Tsuyama Castle is an excellent place for cherry blossom viewing in Okayama. .

Okayama Castle

#2024wish Okayama looks very impressive from the outside and is great to photograph also from the surrounding area. The interior is very modern and even has an elevator up to the 4th floor. There are a lot of exhibitions in Japanese inside the building and kids will love the hands-on experiences (lifting a sword, entering a palanquin etc.) In 2024, I want to come back here.

Experience Okayama Castle in a day

#fallishere Okayama castle is a Japanese castle in the city of Okayama Japan. the main tower was completed in 1597. Okayama castle is about 1.5 kilometer or a 25-30 minutes walk east of Okayama station. it’s really cool visiting here and have a slow stroll around the area . its best to visit during autumn and you will see more color added to the castle and made it more interesting and colorful. overall a great visit here and recommended . 👍🏻 #couplestrip #awesomepic