The castle was originally completed in 1597 after eight years of construction.
The black clapboard siding earned the castle the nickname 'Ujo' (Crow Castle) due to its resemblance to the bird's feathers.
The current castle keep is a modern concrete reconstruction built in 1966, following the destruction of the original structure during World War II.
The park contains surviving sections of the original stone walls that demonstrate the 'nozura-zumi' stacking technique.
The Asahi River was historically redirected to flow along the base of the castle hill to bolster its defensive capabilities.
Ujo Park serves as the landscaped grounds surrounding Okayama Castle, also known as the 'Crow Castle' for its black exterior. The park occupies the site of the former inner and middle baileys of the 16th-century fortification, which was originally constructed by Ukita Hideie. Much of the current park vegetation and layout date to the post-war reconstruction of the castle grounds. The park borders the Asahi River, which served as a natural moat for the defensive structure. Visitors will find stone walls and foundations dating back to the castle's historical occupancy period. It serves as an accessible urban green space directly adjacent to the reconstructed castle keep and cultural facilities.
From the Tsukimi Yagura (Moon-viewing turret) looking back at the black main keep.
Visit the adjacent Korakuen Garden, located directly across the river, for a comprehensive landscape experience.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain includes gravel paths and stone steps around the castle base.
Do not mistake the modern concrete castle interior for a 16th-century original; appreciate the park as a historical site rather than a pristine ancient structure.
The park grounds are open daily, though the castle interior and specific exhibits may have periodic closures for maintenance.
