OKAYAMA & KURASHIKI
Okayama and Kurashiki anchor a region often called the “Land of Sunshine” for its mild climate. This area beautifully merges historic prestige—from one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens to a famed Edo-period canal town—with contemporary culture.
It is a core hub in Western Japan, blending the modern convenience of the prefectural capital with the timeless charm of Kurashiki’s white-walled storehouses. This is the land of the Momotarō (Peach Boy) legend and a rising center for art and high-quality Japanese denim.
Most Popular Attractions
Major Historical & Cultural Core
Okayama Korakuen Garden: Considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, this vast and beautiful landscape garden features ponds, hills, tea arbors, and streams, perfectly showcasing traditional Japanese design.
Okayama Castle (Ujō): Known as the “Crow Castle” for its dramatic black exterior, this reconstructed 16th-century fortress stands proudly beside the Asahi River and provides a stunning backdrop to Korakuen Garden.
Kibitsu Shrine: A major Shinto shrine with an exceptionally long corridor and unique architecture, this site is strongly linked to the Momotarō (Peach Boy) legend, which originated in Okayama.
Former Shizutani School: Japan’s first public school for commoners, designated as a National Treasure for its remarkably preserved Edo-period architecture and beautiful Bizen-yaki tiled roof.
Bichu Matsuyama Castle: Known as the “castle in the sky,” it is the only remaining mountain castle in Japan with its original tenshu (castle tower) intact, often seen floating above a sea of clouds.
Saidai-ji Temple: Famous for hosting the spectacular Saidai-ji Eyo (Naked Man Festival) in February, one of Japan’s three major eccentric festivals.
Sōja-shi Bitchū-Kokubunji Temple: Features the only five-storied pagoda in Okayama Prefecture, located in a tranquil, rural setting that is particularly popular with cyclists.
Kurashiki’s Historic Bikan District
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter: A beautifully preserved Edo-period merchant district, famous for its willow-lined canal, white-walled storehouses ($kura$), and cobblestone streets.
Ohara Museum of Art: Japan’s first private museum of Western art, featuring works by masters like Monet, El Greco, and Picasso, set in the historic Bikan district.
Canal Boat Ride: A charming experience on traditional flat-bottomed boats, offering a unique view of the historical storehouses and weeping willows from the water.
Kurashiki Ivy Square: A large red-brick complex that was Japan’s first modern cotton spinning mill, now housing a hotel, museums, and shops.
Achi Shrine: Located atop Mount Tsurugata, this shrine offers panoramic views of the Bikan Historical Quarter and the surrounding city.
Ohashi House: A beautiful example of a wealthy merchant’s residence from the Edo period, designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Kurashiki Denim Street: A unique shopping area dedicated to high-quality Japanese denim (a local specialty), offering everything from jeans to denim-flavored ice cream.
Coastal, Art & Regional Sites
The Great Seto Bridge (Seto Ōhashi): A majestic series of double-deck bridges connecting Okayama’s Honshu with Shikoku Island, offering spectacular ocean views from observation decks like Washuzan.
Washuzan Observation Deck: A scenic hill offering arguably the best views of the Seto Inland Sea islands and the full span of the Great Seto Bridge, famous for its sunsets.
Kojima Jeans Street: The birthplace of domestic Japanese denim, this street in Kurashiki’s Kojima district is lined with specialty denim shops and boutiques.
Inujima Island: Part of the Setouchi Art Triangle, this island features the Inujima Seirensho Art Museum (a repurposed copper refinery) and several outdoor art installations.
Ushimado Olive Garden: Located near the Seto Inland Sea, this area is known as the “Aegean of Japan” for its beautiful coastal views and flourishing olive groves.
Fukiya Furusato Village: A historical village known for its distinctive townscape, with houses featuring a deep red ochre color due to a local mining byproduct.
Okayama Orient Museum: A museum dedicated to Oriental and Middle Eastern art and archaeology, with a unique modern architectural design modeled on the Pantheon.
Activities & Experiences
Stroll and take a Scenic Boat Ride in Kurashiki: Explore the beautifully preserved Bikan Historical Quarter with its white-walled warehouses, willow-lined canals, and stone bridges, then take a 20-minute small-boat tour along the canal in a traditional sugegasa (straw hat).
Wander Korakuen, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens: Spend an hour or two exploring this vast, meticulous Edo-period garden, renowned for its borrowed scenery, tea plantations, and stunning views of Okayama Castle.
Customize Your Own Jeans in Kojima: Visit the birthplace of Japanese domestic denim in the Kojima area of Kurashiki, where you can take a workshop at the Betty Smith Jeans Museum to design and create a custom pair of jeans or accessories.
Explore the “Crow” Castle and its History: Visit Okayama Castle, known as Ujo (“Crow Castle”) for its striking black exterior. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city and the adjacent Korakuen Garden.
Visit the Ohara Museum of Art: Discover Japan’s first private museum of Western art, located in Kurashiki. It features an impressive collection of masterpieces by artists like El Greco, Monet, and Gauguin.
Go Fruit Picking (Seasonal): Okayama is known as the “Land of Sunshine” and is famous for its fruit. Visit a local farm for an experience like picking Muscat grapes or Shimizu White Peaches (seasonal: typically late spring to early autumn).
Experience a Bizen Pottery Workshop: Visit the town of Bizen and try your hand at Bizen-yaki, one of Japan’s most ancient pottery styles known for its unique reddish-brown color and unglazed, natural markings.
Cycle the Kibiji District: Rent a bike and ride the scenic 17km Kibiji Plain cycling road, passing tranquil countryside, rice fields, and historical sites like Kibitsu Shrine and Bitchu Kokubunji Temple’s five-story pagoda.
Hike to Bitchu Matsuyama Castle: Trek up to Japan’s highest mountain castle, often referred to as the “Castle in the Clouds” (Unkai), especially during the morning fog season (late autumn to early spring).
Savor Local Specialty Dishes: Try Okayama Barazushi, a colorful seafood and rice dish, or sample the famous Demi-katsu Don (pork cutlet with demi-glace sauce over rice) in Okayama City.
Take a Night Cruise of the Mizushima Industrial Complex: Embark on a boat trip from Kurashiki for a unique view of the massive, glittering, and neon-lit industrial complex, a popular sight for industrial night view photography.
Local Tips & Transport
Excellent Rail Connections: The Sanyo Shinkansen (bullet train) stops at Okayama Station, making the city an ideal hub for exploring the region. It’s only about 45 minutes to Hiroshima and 1 hour from Osaka.
Easy Trip to Kurashiki: The Sanyo Line connects Okayama Station to Kurashiki Station in a short, frequent 15-20 minute local train ride (fully covered by the JR Pass). Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk from the station.
Trams and Walking in Okayama City: Okayama City is very walkable, but the streetcar (tram) is a simple and inexpensive way to travel between Okayama Station and sights like the area near Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden. Purchase a ticket from the driver when you exit.
Car Recommended for Rural Sights: While the two main cities are easily done with public transport, a rental car is the best way to explore the wider prefecture, including Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, the Bizen pottery town, and the scenic fruit farms.
The Momotaro Legend: Okayama is the setting for the famous Japanese folk tale of Momotaro (the Peach Boy). You’ll see statues, references, and souvenirs everywhere, especially around Okayama Station—a fun local theme to follow!
The Land of Sunshine: Okayama is known for having some of the least rainfall in Japan, which is why it’s a great spot for growing premium fruits like muscat grapes and white peaches. Plan to try some fresh produce or omiyage (souvenirs) based on these fruits.
Washi Tape and Denim: Kurashiki is an unlikely hub for two very distinct crafts: it is the birthplace of Japanese denim (look for the “Denim Street” in Kojima) and is a center for washi tape (decorative masking tape). Both make unique, high-quality souvenirs.
Operating Hours: Many smaller shops, museums, and attractions in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter tend to close relatively early, often around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Plan your sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Hidden Gems:
- Ivy Square: A beautiful red-brick complex in Kurashiki, once a cotton mill, now housing a hotel, shops, and museums. It’s a peaceful contrast to the white-walled canal area.
- Okayama Manhole Covers: Keep an eye on the ground for the city’s unique manhole covers, which often feature designs related to the Momotaro legend.
- Kibitsu Shrine’s Long Corridor: While Kibitsu Shrine is famous for the Momotaro legend, its 400-meter-long, winding wooden corridor is a stunning architectural feature that makes for a great walk.
Language: As a region slightly less frequented by international tourists than places like Tokyo or Kyoto, while major tourist sites will have English support, locals may not speak much English. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases will be especially helpful and appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Hamayoshi [$20-$40] – A local Kurashiki favorite near the station, known for serving freshly caught seafood from the nearby Seto Inland Sea, including Mamakari (Japanese scaled sardine).
Kurashiki Wanoumami-dokoro Sakuraso [$30-$50] – Housed in an atmospheric, beautifully renovated traditional townhouse in the Bikan Historical Quarter, specializing in delicate, seasonal Japanese meals.
Higashida [$40-$70] – An old and established Japanese restaurant in Kurashiki with a 30-year history, highly regarded for exquisite sushi and otsukuri (sashimi) made with local fish.
YORUYA [$50-$80] – A culinary inn in a 110-year-old traditional building in Kurashiki, offering refined seasonal Japanese dishes that express the local culture and climate.
Tsuneemon Shokudo [$15-$25] – A popular, hidden gem housed in a renovated two-story old house in Kurashiki, serving gentle, comforting home-cooked Japanese set meals.
Bar Sawa [$15-$30] – A cozy, old-school tavern atmosphere in Okayama City, popular with locals for classic Izakaya dishes and a good selection of local sake and shochu.
Ajitsukasa Nomura [$25-$45] – A legendary spot in Okayama City, famous for its Demikatsu-don (pork cutlet with a rich demi-glace sauce), a local Okayama specialty.
Osaketobanzaitomoshibi [$25-$40] – A welcoming Izakaya (Japanese tavern) near Kurashiki Station, offering obanzai (traditional Kyoto-style home-cooked side dishes) and local sake.
Kurashiki Meigen [$10-$20] – A unique self-service Udon restaurant located in a renovated 230-year-old historic merchant’s house, popular for customizable, local-style udon.
Uosho [$20-$40] – A well-regarded restaurant in Okayama City known for its beautifully prepared Japanese food, fresh fish, and very friendly, accommodating service.
Tsuki no Utsuwa [$10-$20] – A popular ramen shop in an alley near Kurashiki Station, famous for its “Golden Soba” with a rich chicken and boiled egg-based soup.
Sushizen Main branch [$25-$45] – A reliable and popular spot in Kurashiki for fresh sushi, sashimi, and general Japanese cuisine at reasonable prices.
Sawaraya [$30-$50] – A long-established spot in Kurashiki focusing on local sake and regional cuisine, perfect for experiencing the traditional flavors of Okayama.
GARDEN DINING [$25-$40] – A stylish dining bar near Kurashiki Station offering Sosaku (creative Western-style cuisine) and cocktails in a modern, ambient setting.
ichiya [$25-$40] – A creative Izakaya in Kurashiki known for its innovative Japanese tapas and a lively, modern atmosphere.
Trattoria Jikasei Soba Takenoya [$20-$35] – A unique concept near Kurashiki Station, blending Italian cuisine with soba (buckwheat noodles) in a refined space with a warm, wooden interior.
Bricole [$60-$100] – A minimalist and elegant spot in Okayama City offering an exquisitely prepared and presented Japanese omakase (chef’s choice) course with a modern sensibility.
Hachikengura [$40-$70] – Located in the Kurashiki Royal Art Hotel, this restaurant offers refined French cuisine using local ingredients, with course options and a chic atmosphere.
Premier [$30-$50] – A charming Kurashiki restaurant near the Bikan Historical Quarter offering delicious French cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Japanese Cuisine Inoue [$50-$80] – A sophisticated Japanese restaurant near Kurashiki Station that serves high-quality, seasonal dishes and creative interpretations of traditional fare.
Teppanyaki Kanna [$80-$120] – A reservation-only teppanyaki restaurant near Kurashiki Station, providing a high-quality experience with excellent wagyu and local ingredients prepared on the iron griddle.
Okonomiyaki Acchan [$15-$25] – A highly-rated, very local okonomiyaki restaurant in Kurashiki, known for serving delicious, authentic Okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancake).
La Scène [$50-$90] – A respected French restaurant in Okayama City that focuses on exquisite preparation and the use of the highest quality local and seasonal ingredients.
Teppan-yakisutekihausumaruon [$90-$150] – A high-end steakhouse in Kurashiki offering Teppanyaki-style preparation of premium beef and other ingredients with an elegant presentation.
Kurashiki Ichie [$80-$150] – A fine-dining establishment where the chef, trained in Kyoto, fuses traditional kaiseki with exceptional local Okayama produce for a unique culinary experience.
Shōun Japanese Restaurant [$100-$180] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Okayama City offering traditional Japanese kaiseki multi-course meals, showcasing the best of the area’s seasonal ingredients.
Tsurugata [$120-$200] – The restaurant within the historic Ryokan Tsurugata in the Bikan Historical Quarter, serving a multi-course omakase dinner that is a very luxurious and authentic Japanese culinary experience.
Japanese cuisine Yokota [$40-$70] – A Japanese restaurant near Kurashiki Station offering high-quality dishes, including suppon (soft-shelled turtle) and sushi, ideal for a refined experience.
Tempura Kyo [$60-$100] – A high-quality spot near Kurashiki Station specializing in exquisite tempura, sashimi, and kaiseki courses, with a focus on seasonal components.
Rentench [$50-$90] – A venerable Italian osteria near the Bikan Historical Quarter, specializing in Sicilian fare, blending quality Italian imports with local Seto Inland Sea seafood and Okayama produce.
Aoi [$70-$120] – A highly-regarded Japanese restaurant in Okayama City known for its meticulous preparation and deep respect for traditional Japanese cooking techniques and ingredients.
Monde [$80-$140] – A premier French restaurant in Okayama City that is often cited for its creative and beautifully executed dishes and elegant dining atmosphere.
Towa [$70-$120] – An exquisite sushi restaurant in Okayama City where the focus is solely on the quality and freshness of the Seto Inland Sea ingredients and the chef’s masterful technique.
Shabu Shabu Sukiyaki Hitori Nabe Megu [$30-$60] – A unique dining concept in Okayama City where you can enjoy personalized hotpot (shabu shabu and sukiyaki) featuring premium local pork.
Miyake store [$15-$30] – A popular restaurant housed in a renovated townhouse in the Bikan Historical Quarter, famous for its “Miyake Curry” using seasonal vegetables.
URBANO [$30-$50] – A modern dining space near Okayama Station offering inventive French dishes and desserts, especially famous for its seasonal fruit parfaits.
Chillda [$10-$20] – A charming cafe in Kurashiki’s Kojima area, popular for its fluffy pancakes but also offering a comforting Japanese morning set with rice balls and miso soup in a renovated, nostalgic storehouse.
Cafe moyau [$15-$30] – A scenic cafe in Okayama City along the Asahikawa River, offering a relaxing view and casual dining, popular for locals to unwind.
Kushi-tei Kurashiki-ten [$40-$60] – An Izakaya specializing in Kushiage/Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) with a Kyōto-style flair, also serving sashimi and local favorites near Kurashiki Station.
Yurin-an [$15-$25] – A cafe/restaurant in the Bikan Historical Quarter housed in a 100-year-old traditional house, known for its “Happy Pudding” with various expressions drawn on the surface and dishes with local ingredients.
Gold Award Croquette Kurashiki Branch [$5-$10] – A famous, casual stop in the Bikan Historical Quarter for a quick snack of award-winning, delicious croquettes.
Ote Manju Cafe [$5-$15] – A cafe where you can enjoy Okayama’s famous confectionery, Ote Manju (sweet bean paste bun), in a modern style, including freshly steamed versions.
Kurashiki Momoko [$15-$30] – While known for sweets, this parlor is a must-visit for its spectacular fruit parfaits, which are a major part of the local Okayama culinary identity due to the high quality of their peaches and grapes.
Parlor Fruits Komachi [$15-$30] – Another dedicated fruit parlor emphasizing Okayama’s seasonal fruits like peaches and muscat grapes in delightful parfaits and desserts.
Kumayama Waina-Ri [$40-$70] – A winery and restaurant slightly outside the main city area, offering a unique opportunity to taste local Okayama wines paired with regional cuisine.
Rossa Cafe & Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located in Setouchi City (in the wider Okayama area), this stylish Italian restaurant offers a beautiful ocean view, making for a unique dining experience away from the city center.
Setouchi Kojima Hotel Restaurant [$30-$60] – The restaurant in this hotel offers dining with panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, specializing in local seafood and a resort-like atmosphere.
Accha [$15-$30] – A beloved local Okonomiyaki spot in Kurashiki, offering the Hiroshima-style of the dish, which is slightly different from the more common Osaka style.
Sumibioyadorikakureya [$20-$35] – An Izakaya near Kurashiki Station specializing in charcoal-grilled oyadori (aged chicken), known for its intense flavor and chewy texture.
Cafe Ballard [$15-$25] – A relaxing hideaway cafe near the Kurashiki Royal Art Hotel, popular with locals for its reasonably priced and filling lunch sets.
Kyofuizakayakushiteikurashikiten [$30-$50] – An Izakaya with a Kyoto-style flair near Kurashiki Station, specializing in deep-fried skewers (kushiage) and horse meat.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
BAR LEGEND: An authentic bar with over 30 years of history, located conveniently near Okayama Station (Okayama Ekimae). It’s known for a wide variety of expertly crafted cocktails, an extensive selection of over 100 single malt whiskies, and high-quality French cheeses, creating a hidden gem for adult patrons.
Bar Caruso: A classic, sophisticated whiskey bar in Okayama City, perfect for those who appreciate traditional cocktails and a refined, intimate atmosphere.
Bar Le Coq: A classy, high-end cocktail bar situated in the Omotecho area of Okayama City. It is highly regarded for its master mixologists who craft elegant drinks in a stylish setting.
SM Bar Secret: Tucked away in the bustling streets of Nakasange, Kita Ward, Okayama City, this bar is an inviting sanctuary for cocktail enthusiasts. It’s known for its intimate ambiance, cozy decor, and expertly crafted signature drinks often using local, seasonal ingredients.
Tiki Bar Head Hunter: An incredible, dedicated tiki bar located in an alley across from Akabana Izakaya in Okayama City. Run by a passionate owner known as Tiki Gucci, it offers tropical escapism and classic tiki cocktails like Mai Tais.
Bar Cuore: Found in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, this bar and restaurant is part of a hostel and serves Italian and Spanish dishes alongside a great selection of wines and cocktails in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Bar BAMBOO GRASS: Located near Kurashiki Station, this bar offers a relaxed environment and is a great spot to enjoy a cocktail or other mixed drink.
NOCTURNE: A dining and wine bar situated near Kurashiki Station. It has a focus on a more complete evening experience, offering food pairings with wine and classic bar cocktails.
ONODA BAR: Found near Kurashiki Station, this is a spot known for being a classic, dedicated Japanese bar, typically focusing on high-quality spirits and expertly crafted mixed drinks in a professional setting.
AVENUE: A traditional café and bar near Kurashiki Station offering a classic bar experience, serving a variety of drinks in a setting that blends daytime comfort with nighttime appeal.
ICHI: A café, sandwich shop, and bar near Kurashikishi Station. This versatile spot is great for a casual drink and offers a comfortable, friendly atmosphere.
Bar LOTUS: Located in the vicinity of Kurashiki, it’s a spot where you can find a more casual bar setting, often catering to a local crowd looking for a relaxing drink.
Hand Craft & Bottle Cafe YES: While officially a cafe, this spot in nearby Hiroshima (but close enough to Okayama to be a short trip) is known for its hand-crafted drinks and bottled selections, offering a creative take on a night out.
Bar Shufu: A hidden gem in nearby Onomichi (an easy day/evening trip from Okayama) known for good local sake and a warm, intimate atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or small groups seeking an authentic Japanese bar experience.
Bar Ueda: Located in nearby Matsue, this bar is excellent for those who appreciate craft cocktails in a more intimate and dedicated setting, making it a great option for a side trip.
SOUND BAR MARS: A well-known nightclub in Okayama City, popular for its vibrant atmosphere and various events, offering a quintessential Japanese clubbing experience with a focus on good sound and a lively crowd.
YEBISU YA PRO: Although known as a live house/venue in Okayama City, it frequently hosts club nights and DJ events with a focus on diverse music genres, making it a top spot for dancing and a high-energy crowd.
Club CUE: A central venue in Okayama City that primarily functions as a live music venue but is also known to host all-night club events and parties, particularly focused on electronic and alternative music scenes.
JNC Okayama: This is generally an informational hub but points to several high-energy spots in the Okayama City center area that rotate themes and DJs, making the immediate district a reliable location for finding current clubs.
Penny Lane Live Cafe: Located in the center of Kurashiki City, just a 10-minute walk from Kurashiki Station, this is a popular live music cafe that also serves as a vibrant nightspot, frequently featuring musicians from around Japan and internationally.
Aussie Bar: The only authentic Western-style bar in Okayama City, located conveniently near Okayama Station. It has a relaxed atmosphere, is very friendly to foreigners, and often serves as a late-night hub for expats and locals.
GB’s Café: A diner and bar in Kita Ward, Okayama City, popular for American food and known to have a lively bar atmosphere with good music and friendly staff. It’s a great spot for drinks and late-night eats.
Dan Y Dwa: A bar near Kurashiki Station that offers a more traditional Japanese tavern (Izakaya) feel combined with a bar, creating a convivial and lively atmosphere popular for group gatherings and late-night revelry.
Robata Bar Kuma: Located near Kurashiki Station, this spot combines the traditional Japanese robata (fireside cooking) concept with an Italian-style dining bar. This fusion creates a lively dining atmosphere that easily transitions into a late-night bar experience.
BAR RIVENDEL: Often considered a more themed or “concept” bar in the Okayama City area, appealing to a niche crowd. These spots typically have a lively, dedicated following and host special events.
Mash Up: A popular spot in Okayama City for casual drinks and social gatherings, known for a diverse crowd and a relaxed, yet energetic, vibe.