Korakuen
GardenChugoku(Okayama)
Established: 1700Admission
¥410
Opening Hours
7:30-18:00 (Mar-Sep), 8:00-17:00 (Oct-Feb)
One of Japan's three great gardens in Okayama, renowned for its spacious lawns and scenic rice paddies.
Korakuen in Okayama is one of Japan's three most celebrated gardens, completed in 1700 by the feudal lord Ikeda Tsunamasa. Spanning 13 hectares along the Asahi River, it features expansive lawns, ponds, hills, and tea plantations, with Okayama Castle as dramatic borrowed scenery. The garden is notable for its unusually broad open lawns, a departure from traditional Japanese garden design that creates a uniquely spacious atmosphere.
Highlights
One of Japan's three most beautiful gardens; Okayama Castle as borrowed scenery across the Asahi River; Expansive open lawns rare in Japanese gardens; Enyo-tei tea house and Ryuten-tei streamside pavilion; Seasonal crane release events in the garden
Access
15-minute walk from JR Okayama Station, or take the Okaden streetcar to Shiroshita stop and walk 10 minutes. Cross the Tsukimi Bridge from Okayama Castle area.
Tips for Visitors
A combined ticket with Okayama Castle offers good value. The garden is illuminated during special nighttime events in spring, summer, and autumn. Japanese cranes are released for walking in the garden during certain periods. Morning visits offer the most peaceful experience.