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Okayama Japan
Home to Hiroshima, Japan’s oldest shrine and gateway to the Seto Inland Sea
Okayama
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Overview
Discover Okayama Prefecture, (岡山県, Okayama-ken) a scenic destination along Japan’s Seto Inland Sea in the Chugoku Region. The vibrant capital, Okayama City, offers modern attractions and easy access to surrounding highlights. Just 15 minutes west, Kurashiki charms visitors with its beautifully preserved historic canal district, lined with traditional warehouses, quaint shops, and cafes. Together, Okayama and Kurashiki provide a perfect blend of cultural heritage, picturesque scenery, and authentic Japanese experiences for travelers seeking both history and relaxation.
1. Inujima Island
Inujima Island, (犬島) off Okayama in the Seto Inland Sea, is a small yet captivating destination named after a rock resembling a sitting dog. Once an industrial hub producing granite and housing a short-lived copper refinery, the island has transformed into a celebrated site for contemporary art. Now part of the Setouchi Triennale, visitors can explore its striking art installations and historic sites entirely on foot, experiencing both creativity and tranquility.
2. Bitchu-Takahashi
Takahashi (高梁) nestled in Okayama Prefecture, is a captivating destination for history and culture lovers. Dominated by Matsuyama Castle, Japan’s only original mountaintop fortress, the city offers panoramic views and centuries of heritage. Wander the preserved old town with authentic samurai homes and historic merchant houses, and visit Raikyuji Temple to admire its exquisite Zen garden crafted by famed Kobori Enshu. Takahashi blends scenic beauty with rich cultural experiences.
3. Kurashiki
Explore Kurashiki (倉敷) a charming city in Okayama Prefecture just minutes from Okayama City. Its beautifully preserved Edo Period canal district showcases historic rice storehouses, many transformed into quaint cafes, boutiques, and museums. The Ohara Museum stands out with an impressive collection of Western art. Stroll along the scenic canals, enjoy the timeless atmosphere, and soak in Kurashiki’s rich history, all easily accessible within a ten-minute walk from Kurashiki Station.
4. Okayama
Discover Okayama (岡山), Chugoku’s vibrant second-largest city and a key transportation hub connecting Shikoku via the Sanyo Shinkansen. This historic castle town flourished during the Edo Period and now delights visitors with Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens. Explore the striking Okayama Castle and enjoy attractions inspired by Momotaro folklore, making Okayama a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty for travelers seeking authentic Japanese experiences.
5. Korakuen Garden
Korakuen (後楽園) in Okayama is celebrated as one of Japan’s three finest landscape gardens, offering serene views of nearby Okayama Castle. Built in 1687 by a local feudal lord, this Japanese garden blends a large pond, flowing streams, and winding paths with spacious lawns rarely seen in traditional designs. Visitors can enjoy plum, cherry, and maple groves, tea and rice fields, a lookout hill, an archery range, and even a historic crane aviary.
6. Kibi Plain
The Kibi Plain (吉備路) near Okayama City offers a scenic 17-kilometer cycling route that links historic shrines, ancient temples, and burial mounds tied to the old Kibi Kingdom and the legend of Prince Kibitsuhiko, inspiration for the Momotaro folktale. Ride through peaceful farmland and traditional villages, renting bicycles at Bizen-Ichinomiya or Soja stations, and enjoy a relaxed way to experience Japan’s cultural heritage on this beautiful rural cycling route in Okayama.
7. Okayama Castle
Okayama Castle (岡山城) often called the “crow castle” for its striking black exterior, rises beside the Asahi River across from Korakuen Garden. Originally built in 1597, it was rebuilt after World War II, with the historic Tsukimi Yagura turret still surviving from 1620. Inside the six-story keep, exhibits share the castle’s story, while a nearby studio lets visitors try crafting local Bizen-yaki pottery during a memorable hands-on cultural experience for travelers.
8. Naoshima Island
Naoshima (直島) a small island in Kagawa Prefecture, is famous for its contemporary art scene and as a key venue of the Setouchi Triennale. With sunny beaches, a relaxed rural vibe, and striking museums by architect Tadao Ando, it offers a peaceful creative escape. Highlights include the Chichu Art Museum, Lee Ufan Museum, Benesse House, and other installations that make the island a truly inspiring destination for art lovers to explore.
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Okayama
Enjoy Okayama’s calm charm with highlights like Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle, and scenic riverside views. Explore Kurashiki’s historic Bikan District, museums, and picturesque canal streets.
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Okayama
Enjoy Okayama’s calm charm with highlights like Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle, and scenic riverside views. Explore Kurashiki’s historic Bikan District, museums, and picturesque canal streets.
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