Okayama Japan

A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Okayama, Japan

Okayama, a charming prefecture located on the Seto Inland Sea in Japan’s Chugoku region, offers a delightful blend of history, nature, and modern delights. Known for its beautiful gardens, delicious peaches, and rich cultural heritage, Okayama is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers looking for an authentic Japanese experience. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know about visiting Okayama, from essential travel tips to recommended itineraries.

Why Visit Okayama?

Okayama Prefecture boasts a unique charm that sets it apart from other destinations in Japan. It’s home to:

  • Korakuen Garden: One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, Korakuen is a stunning example of traditional Japanese landscaping and offers a serene escape into tranquil beauty.
  • Historical Castles: Explore the majestic Okayama Castle, also known as “The Crow Castle” due to its black exterior, or visit the picturesque Bikan Historical Quarter, a beautifully preserved Edo-era district.
  • Natural Wonders: From the breathtaking landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea to the lush beauty of the Kibitsu Shrine and the serene scenery around Okayama Castle’s gardens, nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Getting There & Around:

  • By Air: The closest airport to Okayama is Okayama Airport (OKJ), with direct flights from major cities in Japan and East Asia.

  • By Train:

    • Shinkansen (Bullet Train):

    You can access Okayama by Shinkansen from Tokyo or Osaka. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Okayama Station. It’s a convenient way to travel long distances, with frequent departures and direct connections to major cities.

    • Local Trains:

      • The Seto-Ohashi Bridge connects Okayama with the other islands of the Seto Inland Sea, making it easy to explore nearby regions.
      • JR passes: If you are traveling extensively throughout Japan, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for cost-effective use on the JR network, including the Shinkansen (JR) Pass or regional JR passes.

    • Local Buses: Okayama has an extensive bus network that connects various parts of the city.

    • Taxis: Taxis are readily available and a convenient way to get around within Okayama.

Things to Know Before You Go:

  • Currency: The currency used in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Carry cash for smaller purchases and local shops, as many don’t accept credit cards.

  • Language: While Japanese is the official language, English signage is common in major cities and tourist areas. Many people in the tourism industry speak some English, but learning basic Japanese phrases like “hello” (konnichiwa), “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu), and “excuse me” (sumimasen) will be incredibly helpful for everyday interactions.

  • Language Apps: Consider downloading a translation app on your phone before arriving in Japan, as English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can even be seen as offensive.

  • Shoes: It’s polite to remove your shoes when entering a traditional Japanese home or establishment. Always look for a designated shoe-removal area and follow the local customs.

Things To Do:

Historical Sites:

  • Korakuen Garden: Explore this beautiful historical garden, known as one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens” and stroll through its serene landscapes featuring traditional Japanese architecture, picturesque ponds, and stunning autumn foliage.
  • Okayama Korakuen Garden: Experience the beauty of the historic Okayama Castle, with its iconic black exterior and stunning interior. Wander through the gardens surrounding the castle, enjoying the traditional tea houses and scenic gardens.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Visit a Traditional Japanese House: Immerse yourself in the cultural significance of removing shoes by visiting a local ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or a Japanese garden.
  • Explore the Bikan Historical Quarter: Enjoy the historical charm and traditional architecture of Okayama’s “Kurashiki” district while strolling along its canals.

Nature & Parks:

  • Climb Mount Washuzan: Hike to the top of this mountain for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
  • Stroll through Korakuen Garden: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Japanese garden and relax in its serene environment.

Cultural Immersion:

  • Attend a traditional tea ceremony: Learn about the intricate rituals and enjoy a moment of peaceful immersion in this unique cultural experience.

  • Visit a local festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Okayama by attending a traditional festival like the Momotaro Festival, which celebrates the famous legend of the “Peach Boy” (a mythical hero who is said to have been born from a giant peach) with colorful parades and performances, or the Okayama Festival for a taste of local traditions.

  • Explore the Okayama Castle: Immerse yourself in the history of Okayama’s “Black Crow Castle”, a renowned landmark known for its distinctive black exterior.

  • Experience the art of ikebana (flower arrangement): Learn about the traditional Japanese art form and create your own beautiful arrangements.

  • Visit the Okayama Art Museum: Explore the museum’s collection of modern and contemporary art, showcasing works by local and international artists.

  • Wander through Korakuen Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

Nature & Gardens:

  • Take a walk through the stunning gardens of Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, enjoying the tranquil beauty of traditional Japanese architecture.

  • Visit the Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art: Immerse yourself in art from the ancient to modern era, with a focus on local artists and crafts.

  • Explore the Korakuen Garden (in its entirety) and enjoy the beautiful scenery and gardens.

Other Activities:

  • Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Kurashiki Canal
  • Visit the Okayama Art Museum, which showcases the works of local artists.
  • Visit the “Bikan Historical Quarter”, a charming district known for its historic canal system and traditional architecture, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.

Things to See:

  • Korakushiki Gardens: Experience the beauty of a historical Japanese garden.
  • Take a stroll through the Bikan Historical Quarter: Enjoy the preserved Edo-era buildings and canals.
  • Visit Okayama’s “Okayama Korakuen Garden”, which is renowned for its traditional architecture, including the beautiful Korakuen Hall.

Visit the Okayama Korakuen Garden, which features a stunning collection of traditional Japanese artwork.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury hotels:

  • Consider staying at The Okura Hotel in Okayama

  • Enjoy the comfort and elegance of Hotel Granvia Okayama

  • Boutique hotels: Explore the unique charm of “Okinawa”** (a neighborhood known for its traditional architecture)**.

  • Ryokan (traditional Japanese inns): Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying at a ryokan like “Hakone Yuryo”.

Where to Stay:

  • Ryokan: Experience the traditional hospitality of a Japanese Ryokan, with tatami mats, futon beds and onsen (hot springs).

  • Traditional Hotels:

    • Hotel Okura: This luxury hotel chain offers several locations across Japan, including many in the vicinity of popular attractions.

  • Ryokan:

    • Consider the traditional “Ryokan” experience:

  • Stay at a “Ryokan” with a beautiful garden, like those found in the “Bikan Historical Quarter”.

Where to Eat:

  • Enjoy local cuisine: Try “Okayama Ramen”, known for its unique broth and toppings.
  • Sample the local delicacy of “Okayo-no-kuni”, a type of flatbread with a sweet and savory filling.

Explore the culinary delights of Okayama’s “Bikan Historical Quarter”.

  • Restaurants: Enjoy fresh, local seafood at one of the restaurants in the “Bikan Historical Quarter”, such as “Tsukiji Sushiko” for a traditional sushi experience.

Relaxing Atmosphere:

  • “Bikan Historical Quarter”: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery of **Okay

“Traditional Japanese Restaurants” in the Bikan Historical Quarter:

  • Experience “Bizen-yaki Pottery”: Learn about the history and craftsmanship of this unique pottery style.

  • Ryokan:

Try the local cuisine at “Okayama Korakuen Garden”, a popular destination for visitors.

  • Local Specialties:
    • Korakuen’s “Bizen-yaki” restaurant:

Experience the traditional “Bizen-yaki” style of cooking, which uses minimal ingredients and focuses on natural flavors.

Traditional Food Experiences:

  • “Bizen-yaki”: Enjoy a meal prepared with this unique pottery method, often used for cooking delicious local dishes.
    • Visit a “Bizen-yaki” restaurant:

Try traditional Japanese cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Modern Accommodation Options:

  • Luxury Hotels (like the “Bikan Historical Quarter” area):

You can enjoy a modern hotel experience with comfortable rooms and amenities. * Boutique Hotels:

Experience unique design and personalized service.

  • Enjoy the local culture of “Bikan-cho”: Explore the charming streets and canals of this historic district, known for its traditional architecture.

Where to Stay:

  • “Kurashiki”:

Enjoy a relaxing stay in a hotel near the “Bizen-yaki” pottery workshops and studios. * “Okayama”: A city with a rich history of “Bizen-yaki” pottery, which you can explore by visiting “Bizen” (a local town known for its pottery)

Modern Accommodation:

  • “Hotels” are a great option for travelers who want to enjoy the amenities and comfort while having the opportunity to stay in a modern setting.

Modern Accommodations: * “Bikan-cho”, a charming district with a blend of traditional and modern architecture, is a popular choice for tourists.

Where to Eat:

  • Traditional Japanese restaurants:

Enjoy the “Bikan-cho” experience:

  • “Sushiko”, a local restaurant specializing in fresh seafood dishes, is a great place to try “Bikan”

While many hotels offer traditional “ryokan” experiences, there are also plenty of options for modern accommodation. *

Traditional Restaurants:

* **"Enjoy fresh and delicious "Bizen-yaki" cuisine**:

Try the unique “Okonomiyaki” dishes from “Okayama” restaurants. Modern Accommodations:

Restaurants in the city:

  • “Explore local restaurants with a modern twist.”

“Modern Restaurants” in Okayama are known for their trendy and innovative atmosphere, offering contemporary takes on Japanese cuisine.

Enjoy the “Traditional” side of Bikan:

  • Enjoy a meal at a traditional restaurant in “Bikan-cho”, experiencing local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.

Enjoy the “Traditional” aspect:

  • Enjoying the traditional charm of “Kurashiki” and “Hakone Yuryo” is an experience.

Explore local restaurants:

  • “Enjoy the modern, vibrant atmosphere”

Find a “Kurashiki” restaurant with a “modern” twist:

  • “Modern Japanese Cuisine”: Enjoy the fusion of traditional and modern cooking techniques. (Example: “The Bikan” restaurant offers a modern interpretation of “traditional” dishes)

Enjoy the Atmosphere:

  • Enjoy the traditional atmosphere, while enjoying delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere.

Traditional Japanese Experiences:

  • Modern “Restaurant” experiences: Enjoy the ambiance and the fusion of modern and traditional elements.

Enjoy a meal at a “Restaurant”:

“Explore” the local cuisine.

  • Enjoy traditional restaurants with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.