Okayama is an enchanting city in the south-western part of Japan, and is known for its rich culture, stunning scenery and delicious cuisine. Located on the banks of the Asahi River, Okayama is a major stop on the Seto Inland Sea and is a popular tourist destination for both international and domestic travelers. With its centuries-old temples, shrines and gardens, Okayama offers a unique blend of history and modernity that can be explored in a single day.
For sightseeing, Okayama is home to a number of attractions, including the famous Korakuen Garden, a National Historic Site of Japan, and the Okayama Castle, an impressive reminder of the city’s samurai past. For a more modern experience, the Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art and the Okayama Science Center are both worth a visit.
The food scene in Okayama is one of the city’s greatest attractions. Okayama is home to a number of traditional Japanese dishes, such as Okayama-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake made with cabbage, green onions, pork, squid and other ingredients. In addition, the city has an abundance of fresh seafood, such as tuna and sea bream, that can be found in local restaurants.
No visit to Okayama would be complete without exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife. There are many bars, clubs and pubs located throughout the city, offering a range of drinks and entertainment, including live music and karaoke.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Okayama is the perfect destination for travelers of all ages. With its stunning scenery, rich culture and delicious cuisine, it’s a city that’s sure to leave lasting memories.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: Located in the heart of Okayama City, this area is filled with historic buildings, canals, and old-style warehouses that have been preserved from the Edo Period. It is now a popular tourist destination for its traditional Japanese architecture and cultural attractions.
2. Kibiji District: This district is located at the eastern end of Okayama Prefecture and is renowned for its natural beauty. Highlights include the Kibiji-no-Sato Cultural Village, a natural hot spring, and the ancient Kibiji-no-Hakashama Shrine.
3. Seto Inland Sea: This region is located in the south of Okayama Prefecture and is known for its stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. Highlights include the Awa no Tsubaki Shrine, the Seto Ohashi Bridge, and the Setonaikai National Park.
4. Tsuyama City: This city is located in the north of Okayama Prefecture and is known for its historical buildings, such as the Tsuyama Castle and the Tsuyama Meiji-era Town. It is also a popular destination for its natural beauty, such as the Tsuyama Ichiba Market and Mount Washu.
5. Tsuyama Hot Springs: Located in the Tsuyama area, these hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties. Highlights include the Tsuyama Hot Springs Park and the Tsuyama Onsen Museum.
1. Korakuen Garden: Located in Okayama City, this is one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. It features a tranquil pond and lush greenery.
2. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: This is a well-preserved area of the city with a traditional Edo-style architecture and many historical sites.
3. Tsuyama Castle: This castle was built in the 17th century and features a large, five-story tower and a moat.
4. Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art: This museum houses a large collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art.
5. Momotaro Statue: This large bronze statue depicts the famous Japanese folktale character, Momotaro. It is located in the city center and is a popular tourist attraction.
1. Kurashizushi: Kurashizushi is a unique type of sushi made in Okayama. It consists of vinegared rice topped with various ingredients such as sea bream, salmon, and vegetables, which are then rolled in seaweed.
2. Kibi Dango: Kibi Dango is a traditional snack made of mochi (rice cake) and flavored with sweet soy sauce. It is a popular souvenir from Okayama.
3. Kibidango: Kibidango is a type of dumpling made from wheat flour, sugar, and soy sauce. The dumplings are steamed and served with a side of sweet sauce.
4. Momiji Manju: Momiji Manju is a type of steamed confectionery made from rice flour and shaped like leaves. It is filled with sweet bean paste and steamed until it is soft and fluffy.
5. Kaisendon: Kaisendon is a type of seafood rice bowl that is served with various types of sashimi, including tuna, salmon, and yellowtail. It is topped with seaweed, wasabi, and pickled ginger.