Korakuen is an Edo-period feudal garden commissioned by Ikeda Tsunamasa, the second lord of Okayama; construction began in 1687 and was completed in 1700. Along with Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito, it is counted among the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Spanning roughly 13 hectares, its wide, open lawns dotted with ponds, hills, plum and maple groves, and tea fields give it an unusually spacious feel for a Japanese garden.
Panoramic view from the lookout atop Yuishinzan Hill, taking in the large Sawa-no-Ike pond and Okayama Castle across the Asahi River
Enyo-tei House, the garden's central building once used as the lord's living quarters, rebuilt in 1960 to Edo-period plans after wartime loss
Dramatically different scenery each season: around 300 cherry trees in spring and about 250 maples in autumn, with the Chishio-no-mori maple grove especially prized
A crane aviary raising cranes since 1956, plus working tea fields, rice paddies and an archery range evoking Edo-era daily life
GENSO-TEIEN, a limited-time spring, summer and autumn night opening where the garden and castle are lit by candles and bamboo lanterns
Good to know
SeasonThe open lawns offer very little shade and can be punishing in summer heat. Bring a hat, parasol and water, and consider visiting early morning or late afternoon.
SeasonThe star attraction shifts by season plum (late winter), cherry (spring), lotus (summer) and maples (autumn) so time your visit to the scenery you most want to see.
RulesOpening hours change seasonally: 7:30 to 18:00 (Mar 20 to Sep 30) and 8:00 to 17:00 (Oct 1 to Mar 19), with last admission 15 minutes before closing. Confirm the latest times before you go.
RulesDuring GENSO-TEIEN night openings, hours and fees differ from daytime, so check the official website for event dates and pricing before visiting.
MannersPaths run over soil, gravel and hills, so heels are impractical wear comfortable shoes and allow at least an hour to stroll.
MannersArrive early to enjoy the calm before tour groups arrive, and keep noise down during tea ceremonies, Noh performances and other cultural events.
Practical info
Fees (confirm latest): 500 yen for adults, 200 yen for age 65+, free for high-school age and younger; combination tickets with Okayama Castle are also available. Access: from JR Okayama Station, take the Higashiyama tram line to Shiroshita and walk about 10 minutes, or a bus to the Korakuen-mae stop. Allow at least an hour to explore.
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