Okayama
Okayama Prefecture is often called the land of sunshine and Momotaro the ‘Peach Boy,’ and Okayama City is its capital. It was highly ranked among the regional castle towns during the Edo period (1603-1868). Today, it’s a major transportation hub. Though sometimes overlooked in favour of more famous destinations like Kyoto and Hiroshima, Okayama has plenty to offer the discerning visitor.
One cannot leave Okayama without visiting Korakuen Garden––one of the three best landscape gardens in Japan––and the adjacent Okayama Castle. Cyclists will love exploring the Kibi Plain on two wheels, while those who enjoy exploring on foot may like to take a stroll along Nishikawa Canal Park, a lovely green area in the city. Picking grapes at the Kubo Fruit Farm is fun whether you’re a child or an adult. Don’t miss out on trying the local speciality, Kibi dango!
Okayama is also a great base for day trips to nearby towns and cities. It’s easy to head out to the art islands of Naoshima and Teshima from Okayama, and equally easy to take side trips to the charming and historic towns of Kurashiki and Bitchu-Takahashi.
Okayama Castle
Explore the magnificent Okayama Castle, also known as ‘Crow Castle’ for its sleek, black exterior.
Kubo Farm
Pick and eat delicious muscat grapes at Kubo Farm in late summer! You can pick corn, yuzu, and more at other times.
Nishigawa Canal Park
Wander along the lush, shady paths lining Nishigawa Canal Park, a green oasis in the middle of urban Okayama.
Korakuen Garden
Wander through the gorgeous and spacious Korakuen Garden, located across the river from Okayama Castle.
Kibitsu Shrine
Stroll along the long, covered corridors of Kibitsu Shrine where Prince Kibitsuhiko is said to have once battled an ogre.
Bitchu-Takahashi
Walk around Bitchu-Takahashi, an old town centred around Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle, the oldest surviving castle in Japan.
Kibi Plain
Cycle across the sprawling fields of Kibi Plain and learn about the legend of Prince Kibitsuhiko and Momotaro.
Handayama Botanical Garden
Plant lovers shouldn’t miss Handayama Botanical Garden. It has 1,000 cherry trees and around 150,000 plants!
Kurashiki
Take a side trip out to the lovely willow-lined canal town of Kurashiki. Visit museums, boutiques, and cafés.
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