Okayama Castle
Chugoku Region
Okayama Castle, located in Okayama City in Japan's Chūgoku region, is a historically significant Japanese castle originally completed in 1597 during the Sengoku period. The castle was built on a series of small hills near the Asahi River and was the stronghold of the Ukita clan, later ruled by the Kobayakawa and Ikeda clans. Known locally as "Ujō" or "Crow Castle" due to its distinctive black lacquered exterior, the castle features a four-story, six-level complex with a unique multi-faceted design reminiscent of Azuchi Castle's tenshu. The castle's strategic design included moats formed by redirected river channels and a castle town laid out on a north-south axis. It suffered heavy damage during World War II air raids in 1945, losing its original keep, which was reconstructed in reinforced concrete in 1966 to restore its historic silhouette. Today, the castle stands adjacent to Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's three great gardens, enhancing its cultural and touristic appeal. The castle grounds include surviving turrets designated as Important Cultural Properties and remnants of original stone walls and moats. Visitors can explore the reconstructed keep, various gates, and enjoy panoramic views over the city and the Asahi River.
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Tip: The best time to visit Okayama Castle is during spring when cherry blossoms bloom or in autumn for colorful foliage, enhancing the castle's dramatic black silhouette. Tickets are available on-site, but purchasing in advance can help avoid queues during peak seasons. Visitors can combine their trip with a visit to the nearby Korakuen Garden for a full cultural experience. The castle is open daily from 9:00 to 17:30, with last admission at 17:00. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. Check the official website for seasonal events and exhibitions that enrich the visit.
Interesting facts
- •Okayama Castle is nicknamed "Crow Castle" due to its black lacquered exterior, contrasting with the nearby "White Heron Castle" (Himeji Castle).
- •The castle's tenshu (main keep) has a unique multi-faceted design, possibly inspired by Azuchi Castle or Osaka Castle.
- •The castle was originally surrounded by five moats and extensive defensive walls, with a castle town stretching 3.5 km north-south and 1.3 km east-west.
- •The "Hatsuka-bori" outer moat was reputedly completed in just twenty days using forced labor, including farmers and samurai.
- •The castle's reconstruction in 1966 used reinforced concrete but retained traditional design elements, including gold leaf roof tiles bearing the crest of Ukita Hideie.
- •Several original turrets, such as Tsukimi Yagura and Nishi-no-maru Nishi-te Yagura, survived the war and are designated Important Cultural Properties.
- •The castle grounds hosted the 2020 Tokyo Olympic torch relay celebration, highlighting its cultural significance.
History
Okayama Castle was originally constructed in 1597 by Ukita Hideie, who expanded and fortified the castle on a hill called Okayama, incorporating the older Ishiyama Castle.
The castle town was carefully planned with moats created by redirecting rivers.
After the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, the castle changed hands to Kobayakawa Hideaki and later the Ikeda clan, who further expanded the castle town.
The castle suffered significant damage during the 1945 air raids in World War II, leading to the destruction of the original keep.
Reconstruction efforts in the 1960s restored the castle's iconic black keep, preserving its historical silhouette and importance.
The castle and its surrounding structures have been designated as important cultural properties and historic sites, reflecting its significance in Japanese history.
Place Guide
Main Keep (Tenshu)1597 (original), 1966 (reconstruction)
The reconstructed four-story, six-level main keep is the castle's centerpiece, featuring a black lacquered exterior and gold leaf roof tiles. It houses exhibits on the castle's history, architecture, and the Ukita clan.
Tsukimi Yagura (Moon Viewing Turret)Early Edo period
A two-story turret with white plaster walls and a distinctive design, it served as a lookout and defensive position. It is an original structure designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Nishi-no-maru Nishi-te Yagura (West Bailey West Turret)Early Edo period
Another surviving turret from the Edo period, featuring traditional castle architecture and designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Castle Moats and Stone Walls1590s - Edo period
Remnants of the original moats and stone walls can be seen around the castle grounds, illustrating the castle's extensive defensive network.
Korakuen Garden (Adjacent Site)1687
One of Japan's three great gardens, Korakuen lies adjacent to Okayama Castle and offers a contrasting serene landscape with ponds, tea houses, and seasonal flora.
Contact
Phone: 086-225-2096