Okayama Castle

Overview

Okayama Castle was initially renovated from Ishiyama Castle by Ukita Naoie, with his son Hideie undertaking extensive modifications. Hideie became a powerful feudal lord with a domain of 574,000 koku under the Toyotomi administration, developing Okayama Castle as his primary residence. The castle tower, covered in black lacquered clapboards, is said to have been modeled after Hideyoshi's Osaka Castle, earning it the nickname 'Crow Castle' due to its distinctive appearance. After the Battle of Sekigahara, the lords changed to Hideaki Kobayakawa and the Ikeda clan, each making their own renovations to the castle and castle town. Most of the buildings were demolished under the Meiji era's decree abolishing castles, but the castle tower was rebuilt after the war and stands to this day. The existing Tsukimi Yagura (moon-viewing turret) is a valuable remnant from the early Edo period and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Okayama Castle continues to attract many tourists with its rich history and beautiful scenery.