Okayama

Okayama Prefecture offers many sightseeing spots where history and culture come alive, such as Korakuen Garden and the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. Come and see the beautiful gardens and traditional townscape and enjoy the serene tranquility of the area. You can also enjoy regional specialties such as peaches and Bizen pottery. Okayama’s combination of history, culture, and nature is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Destination Highlights

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Arts & Culture

In the Edo period, the town of Kurashiki was an important center for the rice trade, Japan’s most important product at the time. This resulted in the development of canals and warehouses where rice was stored. Nowadays, the town is preserved as the Bikan Historical Quarter, and has become a tourist attraction.

Okayama Korakuen Garden

Nature & Outdoors

Okayama’s beautiful Japanese garden, Korakuen, is referred to as one of Japan's three great gardens. Created by a feudal lord in the Edo period, it features wide lawns, flowing streams, and carefully arranged plants and trees.

Brazilian Park Washuzan Highland

Leisure & Attractions

A unique theme park with a Brazilian theme. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Washuzan and the beautiful Seto Inland Sea, this park offers thrilling attractions and the chance to experience Samba.

The four seasons of Okayama

Spring

Spring in Okayama is a season of beautiful landscapes filled with blooming flowers. The areas around Korakuen and Okayama Castle offer splendid views of cherry blossoms in harmony with the garden and castle in the background. The blooming flowers also make this the perfect time to visit the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.

Summer

Summer is the season for sightseeing and outdoor sports in Okayama. Enjoy the hot springs at the famous Yubara Onsen, or enjoy a swim and some marine sports at Inushima in the Seto Inland Sea. We also recommend a visit to the Hiruzen Plateau to cool off while surrounded by nature.

Fall

There are many locations in Okayama that offer beautiful views of the colorful leaves in fall, such as Enkyoji Temple in Bizen City and Naruwakawa Onsen in Takahashi City. The three hot springs at Mimisaka—Yubara Onsen, Yunogo Onsen, and Okutsu Onsen—also offer excellent views of fall leaves.

Winter

Okayama’s warm climate makes it comfortable in winter, and it's hot spring resorts are a popular attraction. Relax in the tranquility of Yubara Onsen or Yunogo Onsen. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter offers a peaceful winter townscape where you can enjoy seasonal specialities.

Trip highlights

  • Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

    Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Kurashiki Station

  • Okayama Korakuen Garden

    Okayama Korakuen Garden

    Nature & Outdoors

    Closest station

    Okayama Station

  • Okayama Castle

    Okayama Castle

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Okayama Station

  • Brazilian Park Washuzan Highland

    Brazilian Park Washuzan Highland

    Leisure & Attractions

    Closest station

    Kojima Station

  • Kibitsu Shrine

    Kibitsu Shrine

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Kibitsu Station

  • Hiruzen Kogen Highlands

    Hiruzen Kogen Highlands

    Nature & Outdoors

    Closest station

    Chūgoku-Katsuyama Station

  • Fukiya

    Fukiya

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Bitchū-Takahashi Station

  • The Japanese Folk Toys Museum

    The Japanese Folk Toys Museum

    Arts & Culture

    Closest station

    Kurashiki Station

  • Kojima Jeans Street

    Kojima Jeans Street

    Shopping

    Closest station

    Kojima Station

Okayama route map

Use the route map to find your route and make your trip easier! Use the interactive map to determine the best route for your trip and learn more about your destination and the spots along the route to get there.

Travel and stay with JR-WEST Group

Find convenient hotels near JR-West stations. Enjoy a comfortable stay with easy access, allowing you to relax and make the most of your trip.

Other sights in the Setouchi area

There are many other fascinating places in Setouchi. Be sure to visit its diverse landscapes.