An optical amplifier that can easily cope with alteration of characteristics and whereby a prescribed characteristic can be obtained in a stable fashion. In an optical amplifier, a plurality of optical components including optical amplification media that amplify input signal light are cascade-connected. There are provided (1) a temperature adjustment member capable of changing the temperature of one or a plurality of optical components in accordance with a temperature control signal that is input, and (2) a characteristic control device that supplies in respect of the temperature adjustment member a control signal that controls a prescribed optical characteristic having temperature dependence in one or a plurality of optical components that are the subject of adjustment by the temperature adjustment member, being a prescribed optical characteristic that is demanded for the optical amplifier.