Okayama Castle (Crow Castle)
Known as the 'Crow Castle' for its striking black walls — a deliberate contrast to Himeji's white. The black exterior dominates the city skyline and pairs perfectly with Korakuen across the river.
1–2 hours
¥400 (adult); ¥320 for groups of 20 or more. From Apr 2026: ¥500 (adult), students free
9:00–17:30 (last entry 17:00)
March–May, September–November
About 25 min walk from JR Okayama Station; or streetcar to Shiroshita (approx. 5 min) then about 10 min walk
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Paired with Korakuen Garden across the Asahi River — visit both in one morning
- 2
Armory inside includes regional artifacts from the Ukita and Ikeda clans
- 3
Views from the top floor show the garden's full layout
Local Tips
The original castle was burned in WWII — the 1966 reconstruction is accurate but modern inside. The lacquered black exterior gives the castle its nickname 'Crow Castle'. Cross the river to Korakuen Garden (the view of the castle from the garden is the classic image). The castle town has excellent fresh Kibi dangos (millet dumplings) at shops along the approach street.
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