Okayama is a beautiful prefecture in Japan that is home to stunning scenery, historic sites, and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Located in the Chugoku region of the country, Okayama is known for its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. From the picturesque gardens of Korakuen to the iconic Okayama Castle, there is something for everyone in this fascinating prefecture. Here are the top 20 places to see in Okayama, Japan.
1. Korakuen Garden: One of the most famous gardens in Japan, Korakuen Garden is a beautiful park located in the city of Okayama. The garden was constructed in 1700 by the daimyo (feudal lord) of the Okayama Domain and features a large pond, a tea house, and a variety of trees and plants. The garden is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is especially beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
2. Okayama Castle: The iconic Okayama Castle is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the prefecture. The castle was built in 1597 and is a symbol of the city’s long history. The castle is open to the public and visitors can explore the interior of the castle and take in the beautiful views of the city from the top of the castle tower.
3. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: Located in the city of Kurashiki, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a popular tourist destination. The area is home to a number of traditional buildings and shops, as well as a canal lined with willow trees. Visitors can explore the area and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese town.
4. Tsuyama Castle: The Tsuyama Castle is a stunning castle located in the city of Tsuyama. The castle was built in 1615 and is one of the largest castles in the Chugoku region. The castle is open to the public and visitors can explore the grounds and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
5. Tamano Park: Tamano Park is a beautiful park located in the city of Tamano. The park is home to a variety of trees and plants, as well as a number of ponds and streams. Visitors can explore the park and take in the beautiful scenery.
6. Bitchu Matsuyama Castle: Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is one of the oldest castles in Japan, and is located in the city of Takahashi. The castle is open to the public and visitors can explore the grounds and take in the views of the surrounding area.
7. Momotaro Shrine: Momotaro Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kurashiki. The shrine is dedicated to the legendary Momotaro, a hero of Japanese folklore. Visitors can explore the shrine and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
8. Onomichi: Onomichi is a small port city located in the Hiroshima Prefecture. The city is home to a number of traditional buildings and shops, as well as a beautiful temple and a picturesque canal lined with willow trees. Visitors can explore the city and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese town.
9. Kojima: Kojima is a small island located in the Seto Inland Sea. The island is home to a number of traditional buildings and shops, as well as a beautiful beach and a picturesque harbor. Visitors can explore the island and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese fishing village.
10. Tsuyama Kanko Hotel: The Tsuyama Kanko Hotel is a traditional Japanese inn located in the city of Tsuyama. The inn is known for its traditional architecture and its beautiful views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the inn and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese inn.
11. Setonaikai National Park: Setonaikai National Park is a stunning national park located in the Seto Inland Sea. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, whales, and birds. Visitors can explore the park and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
12. Tsuyama City Museum: The Tsuyama City Museum is a museum located in the city of Tsuyama. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the city. Visitors can explore the museum and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese museum.
13. Takahashi Castle: Takahashi Castle is a stunning castle located in the city of Takahashi. The castle was built in 1590 and is one of the oldest castles in the Chugoku region. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
14. Kibiji District: The Kibiji District is a historic district located in the city of Kurashiki. The district is home to a number of traditional buildings and shops, as well as a picturesque canal lined with willow trees. Visitors can explore the district and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese town.
15. Shizutani School: The Shizutani School is a historic school located in the city of Bizen. The school was founded in 1670 and is the oldest school in Japan. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese school.
16. Himeji Castle: Himeji Castle is one of the most famous castles in Japan, and is located in the city of Himeji. The castle was built in 1609 and is a symbol of the city’s long history. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
17. Kibi Plain: The Kibi Plain is a stunning plain located in the city of Okayama. The plain is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and wild boar. Visitors can explore the plain and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.
18. Tomonoura: Tomonoura is a small fishing village located in the city of Fukuyama. The village is home to a number of traditional buildings and shops, as well as a beautiful harbor and a picturesque beach. Visitors can explore the village and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese fishing village.
19. Tsuyama Noh Stage: The Tsuyama Noh Stage is a traditional Noh theater located in the city of Tsuyama. The theater is home to a variety of traditional Noh performances, as well as a number of workshops and classes related to the art of Noh. Visitors can explore the theater and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese theater.
20. Kibi-no-Sato: Kibi-no-Sato is a traditional village located in the city of Okayama. The village is home to a number of traditional buildings and shops, as well as a picturesque canal lined with willow trees. Visitors can explore the village and take in the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese village.