Okayama Asahikawa Sightseeing Cruise

The Okayama Asahikawa Sightseeing Cruise, also known as the Karasugi Water Boat, offers visitors a unique perspective on Okayama's most celebrated landmarks by navigating the Asahi River, which flows through the center of Okayama City. This waterway experience connects passengers to the region's feudal past while showcasing its architectural treasures from an uncommon vantage point.

During the Edo period, lords would travel by boat from the castle to the gardens, establishing a historical precedent that modern visitors can now replicate. The cruise recreates this aristocratic tradition, allowing passengers to experience the journey as feudal lords once did between Okayama Castle and the renowned Okayama Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's three most celebrated landscape gardens.

The 30-minute journey provides intimate views of the castle's imposing stone walls and the city's historic bridges from water level, offering perspectives unavailable from land-based observation points. Passengers can admire the seasonal scenery and enjoy the majestic scenery that Okayama is proud of as the boat glides along the gentle current. Weather conditions and tide levels may affect operations.

Access to the boarding point near Korakuen Garden requires approximately 25 minutes walking from JR Okayama Station, or visitors can take a 15-minute bus ride or a 4-minute tram journey to Shiroshita Station, followed by a 10-minute walk. The location at 1-6 Korakuen, Kita-ku places the cruise conveniently near other major attractions. Payment options include QR payment systems such as PayPay, though credit cards and electronic money are not accepted.