Museum culture in Okayama!

Okayama Korakuen Garden

Why Visit?

Discover the enchanting landscapes of Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan"s three great gardens, offering a serene escape and a deep dive into the Edo period"s cultural tapestry.

Getting There

Start your journey at Okayama Station. From there, it"s a convenient tram ride via the Okayama Electric Tramway. Alight at Shiroshita Station and enjoy a scenic 10-minute walk across the Asahi River, with the majestic Okayama Castle forming a picturesque backdrop.

Exploring Okayama Korakuen Garden

Enter through the main gate where the blend of expansive lawns, meticulously curated gardens, and historic tea houses transport you back to 1700 when the garden was commissioned by the feudal lord Ikeda Tsunamasa. Spanning over 133,000 square meters, this garden exemplifies the Japanese garden concept of "borrowed scenery" (shakkei), integrating the distant mountains and the adjacent castle into its vistas.

Meander through the Rice Cultivation Field, a nod to the garden"s role in experimenting with crop improvement during the Edo period. In September, the rice fields are lush and golden, offering a perfect seasonal spectacle. Continue to the Crane Aviary, home to a pair of Japanese red-crowned cranes, symbolizing longevity and fidelity.

Don"t miss the Noh Theater, where you might catch a traditional performance, creating a perfect harmony of art, nature, and history.

Interesting Facts

- Okayama Korakuen was designed for not only beauty but practicality, featuring multiple tea houses and entertainment pavilions reflecting the opulence of the feudal lords.

- It was opened to the public in 1884, allowing everyone to bask in its beauty.

Conclusion of the Tour

Conclude your visit with a stop at the Fuyo-tei, the highest point in the garden. The viewpoint here offers a panoramic view of the entire garden against the backdrop of Okayama Castle, a perfect spot to reflect on the enduring beauty and historical depth of Korakuen.

Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photographs.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.