Okayama Japan: Crow Castle, Korakuen Garden & Seto Ohashi Bridge 🌿🏯🌉

Planning to visit Kyoto? Then why not add Okyama to your list, too? This lesserk known gem offers castles, gardens, and coastlines that are just as unforgettable. Start with Okyama Castle. Its black exterior has earned it the nickname Crow Castle. Rebuilt with care, it blends history and striking design. Next, stroll through Paracin Garden. It’s one of Japan’s three great gardens. With ponds, bridges, and open lawns, it’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy traditional beauty. Then take in the view from Sato Ohashi Bridge. Stretching across the sea, it connects Honshu and Shikoku with stunning views of the Sato inland Sea. Okyama is calm, scenic, and full of charm. Save this video and share it with someone planning a trip to Japan. [Music]

Planning to visit Kyoto? Then why not add Okayama to your list too?
This lesser-known destination in western Japan offers a perfect mix of elegant gardens, striking castles, and breathtaking bridges—without the crowds.
Here are three reasons to stop in Okayama on your next trip to Japan.

🏯 1. Okayama Castle – The “Crow Castle”
Okayama Castle is known for its unique black exterior, earning it the nickname “Crow Castle.”
Originally built in the 16th century, it was destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt with attention to detail.
Today, it stands as a blend of historic architecture and modern restoration, with a panoramic view of the surrounding park and river.
📍Okayama Castle, 2-3-1 Marunouchi, Kita Ward, Okayama 700-0823, Japan
Directions; 🚉Tokyo Station ⇒ 🚄Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station (3h 20min) ⇒ 🚶Walk (15min) or 🚌Local Bus (10min)

🌿 2. Korakuen Garden – One of Japan’s Finest
Just across the river from the castle lies Korakuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, along with Kenrokuen (Kanazawa) and Kairakuen (Mito).
It features expansive lawns, peaceful ponds, small shrines, and scenic walking paths.
The design emphasizes openness and shifting views as you walk—perfect for a quiet, reflective afternoon.
📍Korakuen Garden, 1-5 Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama 703-8257, Japan
Directions; 🚉Tokyo Station ⇒ 🚄Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station (3h 20min) ⇒ 🚌Local Bus to Korakuen-mae Stop (15min)

🌉 3. Seto Ohashi Bridge – A Sea View Like No Other
Seto Ohashi is a series of massive double-decker bridges connecting Okayama (Honshu) to Kagawa (Shikoku) across the Seto Inland Sea.
It spans 13.1 km and includes both a highway and train line.
The view from the observation points or from the train itself is breathtaking—especially at sunset.
You can also visit Shimotsui Castle Ruins or the Seto-ohashi Memorial Park nearby.
📍Seto Ohashi Bridge Viewpoint, Shimotsui Fukiage, Kurashiki, Okayama 711-0926, Japan
Directions; 🚉Tokyo Station ⇒ 🚄Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Kojima Station (3h 30min via Okayama Station) ⇒ 🚕Taxi to bridge viewpoint (10min)

✨ Okayama is calm, scenic, and full of quiet beauty.
It’s an ideal addition to any Japan trip—especially for travelers who enjoy gardens, architecture, and sea views.
Save this post and share it with someone planning their next journey to Japan.

✨If you need any help with your Japan travel, feel free to comment or send us a DM!✨

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