Okayama Castle
Explore the striking black 'Crow Castle' and its samurai heritage
Okayama Castle was built between 1573-1597 by Ukita Hideie, adopted son of Toyotomi Hideyoshi (the warlord who unified Japan). The castle was strategically positioned on the Asahi River, using the waterway as a natural moat and controlling important trade routes. The distinctive black exterior, created using black-lacquered wooden boards, earned it the nickname 'U-jo' (Crow Castle), contrasting with Himeji Castle's white facade which is called 'Shirasagi-jo' (White Heron Castle). The castle's irregular pentagon keep design was innovative for its time.
After the Ukita clan fell, the Ikeda clan took control in 1632 and ruled Okayama Domain until the Meiji Restoration. The Ikeda lords commissioned the famous Korakuen Garden adjacent to the castle in 1700. The original castle survived for centuries but was destroyed by American air raids in 1945 during World War II. The current steel-reinforced concrete reconstruction was completed in 1966, faithfully recreating the exterior appearance while modernizing the interior as a museum. Two turrets (Tsukimi-yagura and Nishi-no-maru Nishi-temon) survived the war and remain as original Edo-period structures.
Today, Okayama Castle serves as a museum showcasing the history of Okayama Domain, samurai culture, and the castle's architectural significance. The interior houses exhibits on the Ukita and Ikeda clans, samurai armor and weapons, and the castle's construction. Visitors can try on replica armor and kimono (free), and the top floor observation deck offers views over Korakuen Garden and Okayama city. The castle's dramatic black appearance and riverside location make it a photogenic landmark, and its proximity to Korakuen Garden creates a popular combined tourist destination.
Key Highlights
- Distinctive black castle exterior earning nickname 'Crow Castle'
- Originally built 1573-1597 by Ukita Hideie, reconstructed 1966
- Museum exhibits on samurai culture, castle history, and local domain
- Two original Edo-period turrets survived WWII (Important Cultural Properties)
- Free samurai armor and kimono try-on experiences
- Observation deck with views over Korakuen Garden
- 10-minute walk from Korakuen Garden for combined visit
- Evening illuminations create dramatic nighttime appearance
Access Information
Location
2-3-1 Marunouchi, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-0823
Nearest Stations
- • Okayama Station (JR Sanyo Shinkansen, JR lines) - 25-minute walk or 10-minute tram
Opening Hours
9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM). Open daily year-round except December 29-31. Extended hours during special events.
Admission Fee
Adults ¥400, Elementary/Junior high ¥100, Under elementary free. Combined ticket with Korakuen Garden: Adults ¥640 (saves ¥170). Armor/kimono try-on: Free.
How to Get There
From Okayama Station
Take Okaden Tram Higashiyama Line to Shiroshita tram stop (7 min, ¥150), walk 5 minutes. Or walk directly (25 minutes). Or bus to Kencho-dori bus stop (10 min).
15 minutes
From Korakuen Garden
Walk across Tsukimi Bridge over Asahi River (10 minutes on foot). Combined ticket available at either location.
10 minutes
From Osaka/Hiroshima
Take Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station (45 min from Osaka, 35 min from Hiroshima), then tram or walk
45-60 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Best Photography
Photograph from Korakuen Garden side looking across Tsukimi Bridge for classic composition with castle and greenery. The black facade is most dramatic in morning light. Evening illuminations (after sunset) create striking nighttime images. Inside photography allowed in most areas except special exhibition rooms.
Samurai Experience
Free armor and kimono try-on on 2nd floor (no reservation needed). Staff help with dressing. Photo opportunities with castle exhibits as backdrop. Popular with children and adults alike. Can be busy on weekends - visit weekday mornings for quicker access. Great family activity and unique souvenir photos.
Museum Exhibits
Six floors of exhibits covering Ukita and Ikeda clan history, castle construction techniques, samurai culture, and Okayama Domain development. English signage limited but pamphlet available. Top floor observation deck offers 360-degree views. Allow 45-60 minutes to see exhibits thoroughly. Elevator available for accessibility.
Visiting Strategy
Purchase combined ticket with Korakuen Garden to save money (¥640 vs ¥810 separate). Most visitors do garden first in morning (cooler), then castle midday/afternoon. Reverse order works too depending on schedule. Castle visit takes less time than garden (45-60 min vs 90 min), so easier to fit in if time limited.
Castle Grounds
The castle exterior and grounds are free to walk around (only donjon interior requires admission). Original turrets can be viewed from outside. Riverside walk along Asahi River pleasant. The moat area and stone walls impressive even without entering interior. Castle is illuminated after dark - free to photograph from outside.
Nearby Dining
Limited dining immediately at castle. Better options near Okayama Station (25-minute walk) with extensive restaurant selection. Korakuen Garden has rest house with snacks. Okayama Station basement and surrounding streets have many restaurants serving local specialties like barazushi (scattered sushi) and demi-katsu don.
Special Events
Occasional samurai performances and historical reenactments held in castle grounds. Autumn moon-viewing events coordinated with Korakuen Garden. Check official website for event calendar. Events are infrequent but worth attending if visiting during scheduled times.
Original vs Reconstruction
Important to understand this is a 1966 concrete reconstruction - not an original wooden structure like Himeji Castle. Two turrets (Tsukimi-yagura, Nishi-temon) are original Edo-period buildings designated Important Cultural Properties. The reconstruction is historically accurate exterior-wise but modern interior serves as museum. Still impressive and photogenic despite reconstruction status.
FAQ
Why is it called 'Crow Castle'?
Okayama Castle's nickname 'Crow Castle' (烏城 Ujo) comes from its distinctive black exterior walls, contrasting with Himeji's 'White Heron Castle.' The dark color was created using black-painted boards. This dramatic appearance makes it one of Japan's most visually striking castles.
How long does it take to tour the castle?
Allow 45-60 minutes to explore the castle interior, which houses historical exhibits and artifacts. The castle was reconstructed in concrete, so it includes elevators and modern amenities. Combined with Korakuen Garden across the river, plan for a half-day visit.
Can I take photos inside the castle?
Photography policies vary by area. Generally, photography is permitted in most interior spaces without flash. Some special exhibition areas may prohibit photography. The exterior and views from upper floors are excellent photo opportunities, especially with the garden backdrop.
Is the castle the original structure?
No, the original castle was destroyed in World War II air raids. The current structure is a 1966 concrete reconstruction. While not historically original, it maintains the castle's distinctive design and houses valuable cultural exhibits. The Tsukimi Yagura (Moon-Viewing Turret) is one of few original surviving structures.
What can I see inside the castle?
Exhibits cover the castle's history, the Ikeda clan who ruled Okayama, samurai armor and weapons, and regional history. Some floors feature interactive displays and dress-up experiences. The top floor observatory offers views over the city and Korakuen Garden. English explanations are limited.
Are there steep stairs like other castles?
As a modern reconstruction, Okayama Castle includes elevators to most floors, making it accessible for visitors who cannot manage steep traditional castle stairs. Some areas still have traditional steep stairs, but the elevator option makes it one of Japan's most accessible castles.
When is the best time to visit?
Late afternoon allows you to see the castle interior, then cross to Korakuen Garden for evening exploration. During cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, the castle provides a dramatic backdrop for garden photography. Evening illumination (year-round) creates beautiful photo opportunities.
Are there English explanations available?
English pamphlets are provided at the entrance. Some exhibits have English descriptions, though coverage is incomplete. Audio guides in English may be available. The visual exhibits and castle architecture itself provide interest even with limited English information.
Can I buy a combination ticket with Korakuen Garden?
Yes, combination tickets offer savings if visiting both attractions. They're sold at either location. Most visitors see both in one trip as they're adjacent and complement each other well. The combination represents good value and a complete historical experience.
Is the castle suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy castles. The concrete reconstruction means it's safer and more comfortable than steep original castles. Some interactive exhibits and samurai costume experiences appeal to kids. The elevator access makes it manageable for families. Allow extra time if children want to engage with exhibits.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Kurashiki Bikan District
A beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant quarter featuring historic white-walled warehouses, willow-lined canals, museums, and traditional craft shops.
Ohara Museum of Art
Japan's first private Western art museum, founded in 1930, featuring works by El Greco, Monet, Renoir, and Matisse alongside modern Japanese art in the historic canal town of Kurashiki.
Okayama Korakuen Garden
One of Japan's Three Great Gardens featuring expansive lawns, ponds, tea houses, and views of Okayama Castle across the river.