Korakuen Garden is a traditional Japanese landscape garden in Okayama, in the Chugoku Region of western Japan. It is also known as Okayama Korakuen. The garden sits at 1-5 Korakuen, in Kita-ku, and is often described as one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens, a reputation it has held since it was completed in 1700.
What to expect
The garden covers about 13 hectares, so there is room to wander at an unhurried pace. Its design follows the principles of traditional Japanese gardens, with ponds, bridges and tea houses arranged so that the view changes as you walk. Seasonal plantings give the grounds a different character through the year, and the paths invite you to stop and look at each scene in turn.
Why visit
- A large, classic garden that suits a relaxed half-day or longer
- Ponds, bridges and tea houses set within the landscape
- Seasonal plantings that reward a return visit at another time of year
- A good counterpart to the city's other sights in Okayama
Planning your trip
Korakuen is in Kita-ku, so allow time to reach it from the city centre and to explore the grounds at a leisurely pace. For up-to-date visiting details, you can call the garden on +81-86-272-1148 before you go. Comfortable shoes are a sensible choice, as the garden is best seen on foot.
