Okayama Prefecture is located in the centre of western Japan, adjacent to Hyogo Prefecture in the east and Hiroshima Prefecture in the west. Okayama Prefect
ure is very convenient to travel to—it is approximately 45 minutes from Osaka and 60 minutes from Kyoto by Shinkansen, and about 70 minutes from Tokyo by plane.
Okayama is blessed with a warm climate with little rainfall throughout the year and is nicknamed ‘Hare no Kuni Okayama’, the Land of Sunshine. Taking advantage of its warm climate, the agricultural products produced in Okayama Prefecture are one of the highest qualities in Japan. Fruits grown under the sun in Okayama have outstanding flavours, aromas, and sweetness. Some of the seasonal fruits from Okayama that you must try are white peaches and Muscat and Pione grapes.
Beautiful tourist spots are dotted all over Okayama. There are buildings where you can take in the views of historical Japanese landscapes, not to mention the breathtaking natural landscapes all over the prefecture.
Okayama Korakuen and Okayama Castle are famous sites in the Bizen area in the south-eastern part of Okayama. Okayama Korakuen is a traditional Japanese garden that features attractions such as a Noh stage, ponds, grass mounds, plum blossoms and tea plantations. The garden has received a three-star rating from the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Adjacent to the garden is Okayama Castle, which has distinctive black walls that contrast the white-coloured castle walls commonly found in Japan. Okayama Korakuen and the black-coloured Okayama Castle are a perfect match for visitors to enjoy.
In the Bicchu area in the south-western part of Okayama is the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, the number one tourist spot in Okayama. The famous canal lined with willow trees and its surrounding white-walled warehouse townscape creates an extraordinary sense of tranquillity, and the whole area is a fine balance of the historical and present ages. Kimono wearing experiences are available, and wearing a kimono while strolling around the city is a recommended experience for all visitors.
In the Mimasaka area in the northern part of Okayama, visitors can enjoy the beautiful seasonal nature. Mimasaka has many hot springs, and it is an incredible experience to relax in an open-air hot spring where you can observe the surrounding beautiful nature. Hiruzen, a national park in the area where Jersey cows graze, has pastoral landscapes similar to those in the Alps in Europe. The Jersey milk dairy products made in Hiruzen are a must-try!
Once the travel restrictions from Australia and New Zealand have been lifted, we invite you to visit Okayama and enjoy the delicious fruits and beautiful sightseeing spots we have to offer.
