Author: Federica Morgandi

 

Korakuen (後楽園, Kōrakuen) is ranked as one of the top three landscape gardens in Japan. The spotlight is shared with Kenrokuen (Kanazawa Prefecture) and Kairakuen (Ibaraki Prefecture, Mito City).

 

What Is a Japanese Garden?

 

Korakuen on a spring night.

 

Japanese gardens consist of simple, minimalist natural settings designed to inspire reflection and meditation.

 

First influenced by Chinese garden design, then by Zen Buddhism, Japanese Gardens underwent significant changes during the Edo period (1603-1868). During this time, the ruling samurai class embraced them as a form of expression for their power and wealth. This made grandiose gardens with large ponds, bridges, and carefully manicured trees particularly popular.

 

5 Design Principles of Japanese Gardens

 

Japanese Gardens are inspired by 5 Design Principles: Wabi-sabi, Ma, Yohaku-no-bi, Shakkei and Asymmetry.

 

Yatsuhashi Bridge and Kakitsubata Irises.

 

Wabi-sabi

Wabi-sabi is central to Japanese aesthetics. It means appreciating the beauty of imperfection and the transient nature of things. This design principle encourages acceptance of natural flaws and emphasizes simplicity.

Ma

Ma refers to the concept of negative space or void. The deliberate inclusion of empty spaces creates a sense of balance and harmony. This allows for contemplation and gives prominence to surrounding elements, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the garden.

Yohaku-no-bi

Yohaku-no-bi, or “the beauty of empty space,” emphasizes the thoughtful arrangement of elements that create a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. In practical terms, this involves selective pruning, creation of open views, and use of parse plantings to highlight elegance.

Shakkei

Shakkei, or “borrowed scenery,” is a technique used to seamlessly blend the garden with the natural surroundings and create a sense of harmony between the man-made and the natural.

Asymmetry

Asymmetry is key. Compared to Western gardens, where strict symmetry is more common, Japanese gardens embrace asymmetry to create naturalness and informality. This design principle reflects the belief that perfect symmetry is artificial and that nature is inherently irregular.

 

300 Years of History Encapsulated in One Garden

 

Special early summer opening of Enyotei.

 

Okayama Korakuen is one of the most representative feudal gardens of the Edo period. Construction began in 1687 when daimyō (feudal lord) Ikeda Tsunamasa ordered his vassal Tsuda Nagatada a new garden. The groundwork took 13 years and was completed around 1700. Since then, the garden has been modified according to the lord’s preferences but has remained largely unchanged to this day.

 

The garden was used as a retreat for the daimyōs as well as a place for entertaining their guests. In 1884, the ownership was transferred to Okayama Prefecture, and the garden was opened to the general public.

 

Double flowering weeping cherry tree.

 

Korakuen is characterized by large lawns, ponds, hills, and teahouses connected by garden paths and waterways, so it is perfect for a relaxing stroll at any time of the year. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the changing scenery as they walk. Notably, a 640m-long stream runs through the garden, forming ponds and waterfalls that create a beautiful waterscape.

 

Within the garden, there are historical buildings such as the feudal lord’s residence, Enyōtei, and a Noh stage. These buildings are usually not open to the public, but Enyōtei is specially opened twice a year, and the Noh stage is used for performances and cultural experiences, allowing for public access.

 

Korakuen with snow.

 

The garden suffered severe damage caused by a typhoon in 1934 and by an air raid in 1945 during the Second World War, but it has been faithfully restored based on numerous historical plans and photographs. In 1952, Korakuen was designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties, and it is carefully managed as a historical cultural asset to be passed down to future generations.

 

Visitor Information

■ Address: 1-5 Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama, 703-8257

■ Opening Hours: 

7:30 to 18:00* (March 20 to September 30)

8:00 to 17:00* (October 1 to March 19)

*Last admission is 15 minutes before closing time.

■ Admission:

Adults (15-64 age):

• 500 yen (Korakuen only)
• 600 yen (Korakuen and Okayama Prefectural Museum)
• 720 yen (Korakuen and Okayama Castle)

Children (0-14 and students up to 18 of age): free

Senior (65+ age): 200 yen 

Group (20+ people): 400 yen (if adult); 160 yen (if senior)

■ Typical Duration of the Visit: 45-90 minutes

■ Website: https://okayama-korakuen.jp/section/english/index.html