In Okayama, most tourist spots like the Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle, and museums are close together—just a 15-minute walk from each other and about 1.5 kilometers east of Okayama Station.
To get around, you can use the city's two tram lines: the Higashiyama and Sekibashi Lines, both leaving from Okayama Station. The best stop for tourists is Shiroshita on the Higashiyama Line (5 minutes, 120 yen), from where you can walk to all the main sights. Trams cost 120 yen in the city center, and you pay when getting off. You can use IC cards like Suica and Icoca, or get a 1-day tram pass for 400 yen. There are also city buses, but the Korakuen Bus, which was the most useful for tourists, is currently not in service.
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Okayama Travel Tips
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4 of 4 in Okayama Prefecture
Okayama (岡山) is the vibrant capital of Okayama Prefecture and the largest city in the Chugoku Region, following Hiroshima. Renowned as a key transportation hub, it connects the Sanyo Shinkansen with the only rail link to Shikoku. With its roots as a castle town during the Edo Period (1603-1868), Okayama grew into a prominent regional power that still echoes its historical significance today.
The city's crown jewel is Korakuen Garden, celebrated as one of Japan's three finest landscape gardens, alongside Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito. Adjacent to the garden, Okayama Castle adds to the picturesque scenery. Visitors will also encounter references to the beloved fairy tale hero Momotaro (Peach Boy), making the city a delightful mix of culture and history.
Getting around
Attractions
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1Okayama CastleHistoric castle, Bizen-yaki pottery, Korakuen
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2Korakuen GardenOne of Japan's top three gardens
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3Kibitsu ShrineUnique kibitsu-zukuri architecture style
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4Ushimado Olive GardenLargest olive garden in Japan
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5Bitchu Kokubunji TempleLast five-story pagoda built in Japan
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6Kibi PlainHistoric cycling route and local legends
Nearby
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1Inujima IslandFamous for contemporary art and tranquility
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2Bitchu-TakahashiFamous for Matsuyama Castle and history
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3KurashikiFamous for its historic canal area
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4FukuyamaFamous for Fukuyama Castle and Tomonoura
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5HimejiKnown for its most beautiful castle in Japan
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6TakamatsuCapital of Kagawa Prefecture
Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
Okayama is a charming city that beautifully combines historical sites with modern attractions. One of its main highlights is Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's top three gardens, where visitors can enjoy stunning landscapes, ponds, and seasonal flowers. The nearby Okayama Castle, known as "Crow Castle" for its black exterior, adds a touch of history and offers great views of the city and garden. The city's relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll through its parks and streets.
In addition to its famous landmarks, Okayama has a vibrant local food scene, with specialty dishes like kibi dango (sweet rice flour treats) and fresh seafood. The city also boasts a few art museums, making it a great destination for culture lovers. Whether you're exploring its gardens, enjoying local cuisine, or discovering its history, Okayama offers a peaceful yet enriching experience that captures the essence of Japan's charm.2 months ago — by Wesley