Okayama
Castle, Garden and Peach Boys
The must-see attractions in Okayama
Okayama (岡山) holds the spirit of Japanese history and people. The city developed as a castle town during the Edo Period (1603-1867) and became a significant regional power.
Okayama, often referred to as the “Land of Sunshine”, boasts a rich history and culture. It is the site of Korakuen, known as one of the top three traditional gardens in Japan, along with Kanazawa‘s Kenrokuen and Mito’s Kairakuen and Okayama Castle, which is ranked among the best 100 Japanese castles.
One of the representative areas in Okayama is the Kurashiki Bikan Historical District – The Birthplace Of Momotaro – known as Peach Taro, a common Japanese masculine name, and often translated as Peach Boy.
Kurashiki (倉敷) has a preserved canal area that dates back to the Edo Period (1,603-1,867), when the city served as an important rice distribution center.
The Bikan area retains the picturesque landscape of the town from 300 years ago, and the area is designated an important traditional building preservation area.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or art, Okayama has something to offer every traveler.
The main places to visit in Okayama
- Korakuen Garden – Considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Korakuen is a masterpiece of Japanese landscaping. With its ponds, streams, hills, and tea houses, it offers a serene escape and stunning views, especially during cherry blossom season.
- Okayama Castle – Nicknamed “Crow Castle” for its black exterior, Okayama Castle is a majestic structure that offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. The interior houses a museum showcasing the castle’s history and artifacts.
- Kibitsu Shrine – Known for its unique architecture, Kibitsu Shrine is a captivating complex with a long, covered corridor leading to the main hall. It’s associated with the legend of Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto, a mythical hero.
- Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter – This picturesque district is filled with well-preserved Edo-period buildings, canals, and willow trees. Take a leisurely boat ride, explore the quaint shops, and visit the Ohara Museum of Art.
- Bizen – The world of Bizen ware, famed for its distinctive rustic pottery of the same name, produced in diverse forms and prized all over the world.
- Kibitsuhiko Shrine – Also known as the “Shrine of the Morning Sun”, is a captivating Shinto shrine, famous for its covered walkway, called the Kairo, stretching for approximately 360 meters (1181 feet), making it one of the longest shrine corridors in Japan.
- Tsukuriyama Kofun – A massive keyhole-shaped burial mound dating back to the Kofun period (around the 5th century AD).
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Our visits and experiences in & near Okayama
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