Korakuen Garden — One of Japan's Three Great Gardens

**Seasonal timing strategy:** Korakuen's character transforms with seasons. Spring (late March–April) brings 280 cherry trees into bloom, with evening illuminations during peak bloom (18:00–21:00, ¥410 separate entry). Summer (August) features evening garden openings until 21:30 with lantern displays during Midsummer Fantasy events. Autumn (mid-November) showcases 100 maple trees in red-gold foliage, with morning mist creating ethereal pond reflections. Winter (January–February) sees resident cranes released onto lawns — these tancho (red-crowned cranes) are garden symbols, traditionally kept since the Edo period. **Photography & composition:** The garden's flat topography makes elevated viewpoints crucial. Climb Yuishinzan Hill (central artificial hill) for panoramic shots encompassing Okayama Castle, ponds, and lawn expanse. The Enyo-tei tea house offers another elevated perspective (¥410 includes matcha tea service). For classic compositions, photograph from the southwestern corner of Sawa-no-ike pond with the castle framing the background — best in morning light (7:30–9:00) before crowds. **Tea house experience:** Enyo-tei tea house serves traditional matcha and wagashi sweets (¥500) in tatami rooms overlooking the garden. The tea pavilion was the feudal lord's rest spot during garden strolls — sitting here recreates the aristocratic experience of viewing one's domain. Service is informal (not full tea ceremony), making it accessible for first-timers. Open garden hours, no reservation required.