Okayama

Okayama, a city in western Japan, is known for its mild climate and rich cultural heritage. You can stroll through Korakuen, one of Japan's top three landscape gardens, or explore the black-walled Okayama Castle. The city also serves as a convenient starting point for trips to the art-filled islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the historic canal town of Kurashiki.

Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle

Korakuen Garden, completed in 1700, is one of Japan's three most celebrated gardens. As you walk through, you'll see carefully tended lawns, groves of plum and cherry trees, and calm ponds. The garden's appearance changes with the seasons - cherry blossoms appear in spring, lush greenery in summer, and colorful foliage in autumn. Across the Asahi River stands Okayama Castle, with its dark exterior earning it the nickname "Crow Castle". While the current structure is a 1966 concrete reconstruction, you can visit a museum inside that details the castle's history. The top floor offers views of the city.

Historic Kurashiki District

A 15-minute train ride from Okayama City brings you to Kurashiki's Bikan Historical Quarter. Here, you'll find well-preserved buildings from the Edo period (1603-1867). You can walk along canals lined with willow trees, passing white-walled storehouses now housing museums, cafes, and craft shops. For a different perspective, take a boat ride on the canal. Don't miss the Ohara Museum of Art, Japan's first museum of Western art, which contains works by artists such as Monet, Matisse, and Picasso.

Okayama's Fruits and Local Cuisine

Okayama is well-known for its fruit production, especially white peaches and muscat grapes. You can try these local specialties fresh from farmers' markets, in fruit parfaits, or as flavoring in local sweets. Look for kibi dango, small chewy dumplings made from millet flour, which feature in the local folktale of Momotaro (Peach Boy). For a main meal, try Okayama-style barazushi, a type of scattered sushi with local seafood and vegetables.

Art Islands of the Seto Inland Sea

From Okayama, you can reach the art islands of the Seto Inland Sea. A short train and ferry ride takes you to Naoshima, an island filled with contemporary art installations. You'll find outdoor artworks, museums designed by architect Tadao Ando, and hotels decorated with art pieces. The nearby islands of Teshima and Inujima also offer unique art experiences in rural settings.

Getting Around Okayama

The Sanyo Shinkansen stops at Okayama Station, connecting the city to other major destinations. Within Okayama, you can use the tram network or rent a bicycle to explore. Many attractions are within walking distance in the compact city center. For trips to Kurashiki or the art islands, local trains and ferries run regularly.