Completed in 1597 after eight years of construction, Okayama Castle is one of Japan’s top 100 castles. After the keep was destroyed in the war, the castle was rebuilt in 1966. Also known as “U-jo (Crow Castle)” for its crow-like black outer wall, Okayama Castle is a popular counterpart to the white outer walls of Himeji Castle. Inside the keep, visitors are welcome to dress up (free) as feudal lords or princesses, or have a memorial photo taken while riding a daimyo’s palanquin, a traditional Japanese form of conveyance, for a taste of life as a feudal warlord. Visitors can also attend workshops to make Bizen pottery, representative of Japan itself, and are encouraged to try Okayama Castle’s famous “Castle Parfait.” Just 5 minutes on foot from Okayama Korakuen Garden, the areas around the keep are open to all visitors free of charge. Free English guide services are also available.