Okayama Castle

Okayama Castle

Also known as U-jō (Crow Castle) or Kin U-jō (Golden Crow Castle), Okayama Castle is a castle located in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. During the Edo period, it served as the seat of the Okayama Domain and is now a nationally designated Historic Site. It is said to have been built between 1346 and 1369 by Ukita Naoie, and after surviving wars and centuries of weathering, only ruins such as turrets, stone walls, and moats remain, serving as a testament to the castle’s long history.

Most of the palace buildings, turrets, and gates of Okayama Castle were removed during the Meiji period, and the moat was largely filled in, leaving only the inner moat. During World War II, the tenshu (main keep) and Ishiyama Gate were destroyed in air raids, leaving only two turrets, the stone walls, and the inner moat intact. In 1966, a four-story, six-tiered composite tenshu in the yagura-style was reconstructed using steel reinforcement, and in 2006, it was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles. Today, the area around Okayama Castle has been developed into U-jō Park, which features lush greenery, vibrant clusters of flowers, fresh air, and a beautiful environment, making it one of the most beloved recreational spots for residents of Okayama City.

Okayama Castle

Must-visit reason: One of Okayama’s most iconic attractions

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Japan[Japan]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Okayama Prefecture [Okayama Prefecture]

City where the attraction is located: Okayama City [Okayama ]