Journal

Red-Crowned Cranes Stroll Okayama Korakuen, Winter 2026–2027 | A Train Trip from Our Hinase Stay

At Okayama Korakuen, one of Japan's three most celebrated landscape gardens, the garden's red-crowned cranes are let out to walk across the winter lawns. December 5 brings a naming ceremony for this year's chicks, with more walks planned on New Year's Day and January 3.

What is it?

Okayama Korakuen has kept red-crowned cranes (*tancho*, a symbol of longevity and good fortune in Japan) for many years. From autumn into winter, the garden sets aside certain days when the cranes are released onto the lawns, letting visitors watch them wander up close. Their white and black plumage and the red crown on their heads stand out beautifully against the winter garden.

This season, two chicks hatched in May 2026, and they are expected to make their public debut from December. A naming ceremony for the chicks is planned for Saturday, December 5.

Dates and venue

Main dates in early winter:

  • Sat, Dec 5, 2026 11:30–12:30 (chick naming ceremony)
  • Sun, Dec 13, 2026 10:00–11:00
  • Fri, Jan 1, 2027 (New Year's Day) 11:00–14:00
  • Sun, Jan 3, 2027 11:00–14:00
  • Further dates follow in January and February

The walks take place on the lawns inside Okayama Korakuen. They go ahead in light rain but are cancelled in bad weather, and may change depending on the cranes' health; cancellations are posted on the garden's official website on the morning of the day. Garden admission is required (admission is reported to be free on New Year's Day). Please check official information for current fees and times.

Getting there from our stay

From our Hinase stay, the simplest route is the JR Ako Line from Hinase or Sogo Station to Okayama Station. From Okayama Station, a tram or bus takes you toward the garden. If you drive, parking is available nearby, but expect crowds on New Year's Day and allow plenty of time.

Tips

  • Each walk is short, so arrive a little early to find a good viewing spot by the lawn.
  • Okayama Castle stands just across the Asahi River from the garden, and the view between the two is lovely. They pair well on foot.
  • On Jan 1 and 3, combine it with *hatsumode* (the first shrine visit of the new year) for a New Year day in Okayama.
  • Back in Hinase, winter is oyster season, a fine way to round off the trip.

For details, see Okayama Kanko Web (Red-crowned crane walk).

After a quiet winter morning in the garden, unwind at our seaside stay in Hinase.