Discover the Serenity of Okayama Korakuen: A Jewel of Japanese Gardening
Explore Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan's most beautiful gardens, offering stunning landscapes and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
Okayama Korakuen is one of Japan's three most famous gardens, a true gem that offers an immersive experience into traditional Japanese landscape design. Spanning over 13 hectares, this exquisite garden is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can wander through a harmonious setting filled with lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and seasonal flowers, providing a picturesque backdrop for memorable photographs. The garden’s layout is meticulously planned, allowing guests to appreciate the beauty of nature in every season, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn leaves. Beyond its stunning aesthetics, Okayama Korakuen is steeped in history. Established during the Edo period, the garden was designed for the local feudal lord as a place of leisure and relaxation. Today, it serves as a peaceful retreat for both locals and tourists alike, inviting all to explore its serene pathways and scenic viewpoints. The garden is also home to traditional tea houses, where visitors can enjoy authentic Japanese tea ceremonies, further enriching their cultural experience. Whether you're here for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or to absorb the tranquil atmosphere, Okayama Korakuen promises an unforgettable experience. Its proximity to Okayama Castle enhances the experience, allowing you to delve deeper into the region's rich history. Plan your visit during special seasonal events, such as the cherry blossom festival or the autumn foliage display, to witness the garden in its full glory.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and fewer crowds.
- Don't miss the seasonal flower displays; check the bloom calendar before your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, especially during cherry blossom season.
- Try the traditional tea ceremony offered in the tea houses within the garden.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the entire garden at your own pace.
A brief summary to Okayama Korakuen
- 1-5 Korakuen, Okayama, Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama, 703-8257, JP
- +8186-272-1148
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Bizen, take National Route 2 heading towards Okayama. Continue on Route 2 for approximately 30 km. Once you reach Okayama city, follow the signs for Korakuen Park. You'll need to park in one of the nearby parking lots (charges may apply, typically around 500 to 1,000 yen for a few hours). The park entrance is just a short walk from the parking area.
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Public Transportation - Train
From Bizen, head to Bizen-Tanigami Station and board the JR Ako Line towards Okayama. This journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Okayama Station, transfer to the Okayama Electric Railway (Okayama Dentetsu) and take the tram (Line 5) towards Yamaguchi. Get off at the Korakuen-mae stop. The entrance to Okayama Korakuen is a short walk from the tram stop. The total cost for the train and tram ride will be around 1,000 yen.
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Public Transportation - Bus
You can take a local bus from Bizen to Okayama. Check the local bus schedules for the best route (it usually takes around 40-50 minutes). Once in Okayama, disembark at Korakuen-mae bus stop, which is right next to the park entrance. The bus fare will typically range from 500 to 800 yen depending on your starting point.
Attractions Nearby to Okayama Korakuen
- Okayama Castle
- Tsukimi-yagura Turret
- Okayama Prefectural Museum
- Ujo Park
- Foundation Stones of the Tenshukaku (Donjon)
- Ishiyama Park
- Yumeji Art Museum
- Okayama Orient Museum
- Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art
- Nishigawa Green Road Park
- OKADEN MUSEUM + MITOOKA EIJI DESIGN (OKADEN CHUGGINGTON)
- Kibiji Literary Museum
- Shimoishii Park
- Okayama Kitchoan Museum
- Statue of Momotaro
Landmarks nearby to Okayama Korakuen
- Tsukimi Bridge
- Okayama Station
- AEON Mall Okayama
- Kibitsuhiko Shrine
- Bizen-Ichinomiya Station
- Site of Bizen Provincial Temple
- TAKAHASHIGAWA TRAVEL(高梁川トラベル)
- Araki Rent-a-Cycle
- Machicado
- Inujima
- Inujima Seirensho Art Museum
- Bizen Potter's Organization
- Bizen-yaki Pottery Workshop Mugen-an
- Imbe Station
- BIZEN gallery Kai