What to know
Okayama (岡山) is the capital of Okayama Prefecture and the largest city in the Chugoku Region after Hiroshima. It serves as a key transportation hub where the Sanyo Shinkansen meets the only rail link to Shikoku. During the Edo Period (1603–1868), the city flourished as a castle town and became a major regional center.
Okayama's top attraction is Korakuen Garden, considered one of Japan's three finest landscape gardens, alongside Kanazawa's Kenrokuen and Mito's Kairakuen. Across from the garden stands Okayama Castle. The city is also the setting for the beloved folk tale of Momotaro (the Peach Boy), so visitors will encounter many references to this legendary hero.
Activities and attractions
Korakuen GardenOutstanding Japanese style landscape garden
Kibi PlainCharming plain with attractive cycling route
Okayama CastleReconstruction of the former castle
Naoshima IslandSmall island with a lot of modern art
Inujima IslandSmall island turned into a modern art site
Bitchu-TakahashiPretty town with original mountaintop castle
OnomichiPort town with many slopes and temples
KurashikiCity with a picturesque, historic canal area