If you’ve come to Japan to experience memorable sights and enjoy the rich culture, then you can’t go wrong with Okayama, the capital city of its namesake prefecture. This destination is home to national treasures such as the Kōraku-en, a spectacular park officially regarded as one of the top three traditional gardens in the entire Japan. Another top site is Okayama Castle, an impressive edifice that is among the country’s finest 100 castles (and enjoys fine views into the bargain). The hotels in Okayama, meanwhile, also showcase the city’s charm and hospitality. Quaint Airbnb vacation rentals are equally great picks for stays. Add into the mix some cultural treasures including the famous earthenware pottery of Bizen and natural marvels like the Makido Cave, and you’ve got quite the travel itinerary on your hands. For a great trip, read on to learn the top things to do in Okayama, Japan.
1. Enjoy a cultural visit to Ohara Museum of Art (Ohara Bijutsukan)
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The Ohara Museum of Art, also known as Ohara Bijutsukan, is a renowned art museum that first opened in 1930. It is known for its impressive collection of Western art, including works by renowned artists such as Monet, Gauguin, and Renoir, and is the oldest private museum in Japan. The museum also features a collection of Japanese art and ceramics.
The museum is housed in a beautiful Western-style building surrounded by a tranquil garden, making for a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the museum on their own, taking in the stunning works of art and learning about their history and significance.
Ohara Museum of Art (Ohara Bijutsukan)
Address: 1 Chome-1-15 Central, Kurashiki, Okayama 710-8575, Japan
Website: Ohara Museum of Art
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
2. Interact with animals at Ikeda Zoo
Ikeda Zoo is home to over a hundred species of animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys. One of the unique features of the zoo is the opportunity for visitors to interact with some of the animals, such as feeding black bears and pandas, and petting rabbits and chicks. The zoo also offers a range of educational programs and events, including animal shows and guided tours.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens in the zoo too.
Ikeda Zoo
Address: 2 Chome-5-1 Kyoyama, Kita Ward, Okayama, 700-0015, Japan
Website: Ikeda Zoo
Opening hours: 9.30am - 4.30pm (daily)
3. Wander through the charming gardens of Okayama Kōraku-en
Officially one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan the 300-year-old Kōraku-en sits on the northern bank of the Asahi River, and will not only appeal to green-fingered gardeners but also to tourists who love a fine landscape. Indeed, it was designed specifically to present a new view to walkers around every turn - the so-called ‘scenic promenade’ or Kaiyu style. And there’s plenty of ground to cover, with this parkland extending to more than 144,000 sq metres (more than 1.5 million square feet). There are plenty of scenic spots, including the Kayo-no-ike lotus pond, the iris garden next to the Yatshuhashi Bridge, crane aviary and notable buildings such as the Enyo-tei House - and much more.
Okayama Kōraku-en
Address: 1-5 Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama, 703-8257, Japan
Website: Okayama Korakuen
Opening hours: Mar 20 - Sep 30: 7.30am - 6pm (daily); Oct 1 - Mar 19: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Adults: 400 JPY (3.76 USD); Children (age 6 - 14): 140 JPY (1.32 USD); Seniors: 140 JPY (1.32 USD)
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4. Admire the unusual black exterior of Okayama Castle
The impressive edifice of Okayama Castle is another top historical sight. The castle, nicknamed Crow Castle owing to its dark exterior, has roots dating back to the 16th century. The main tower, which was rebuilt in the 1960s after being destroyed in World War II, is home to all manner of interesting attractions - from the chance to dress as a traditional Japanese lord or princess to turn your hand to the creation of traditional ceramic ware. Historic portraits and artefacts - such as a traditional palanquin - are among the many fascinating sights you’ll find inside. Those who venture to the building’s 6th floor are also rewarded with fine views.
Okayama Castle
Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Marunouchi, Kita Ward, Okayama, 700-0823, Japan
Website: Okayama Castle
Opening hours: 9am - 5.30pm (daily)
Price: Adults: 150 - 300 JPY (1.41 - 2.82 USD); Children (age 6 - 14): 60 JPY - 120 JPY (0.56 USD - 1.13 USD)
5. Poke around the quaint Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
History buffs, culture vultures and photography fans will likely want to make a short hop to the neighbouring city of Kurashiki at some point. The city is home to a picturesque old merchant quarter - the Bikan historical area - which contains a wide array of traditional wooden warehouses dating back to the 17th century. This unique concentration of ‘kura’ - which feature white walls and black tiled roofs - was recognised as important during the 20th century, first through a number of city ordinances aimed at preserving the character of the area, and then later through recognition by the wider government too.
This destination is also home to some of the great things to do in Okayama at night as it seasonally lights up with shadow picture light, facet-shaped light, Japanese umbrella-shaped light and Haruyoi lanterns.
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
Address: Honmachi, Kurashiki, Okayama 710-0054, Japan
Website: Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Pick up pretty paper tapes at Nyochiku stationery shop
Why settle for a shop-bought souvenir when you can hand-craft something that is much more unique? If you’re an advocate of such ideas, or simply a fan of pretty stationery, then a visit to the Nyochiku shop will prove appealing. Its packed shelves are home to all manner of stationery, crafts, cards and a dizzying array of paper tapes featuring all manner of designs and colours. The tapes, in particular, would make unique finishing touches when wrapping presents - and feature building designs, cartoon landscapes and more.
Nyochiku
Address: 14-5 Honmachi, Kurashiki, Okayama 710-0054, Japan
Website: Nyochiku
Opening hours: 10am - 5.30pm (daily)
7. Tour the elegant merchant's residence: Ohashi House
Officially recognised by the central government as being of national cultural importance the Ohashi House’s traditional design - white walls, black tile roof, wooden interior - will win fans among those who appreciate Japanese architecture and culture. The building is home to a collection of historic artefacts, as well as events and exhibitions featuring the likes of pattern printing artworks and pieces by glass artists. It’s even a popular wedding ceremony venue - should you and your other half be looking for a unique location in which to tie the knot.
Ohashi House
Address: 3 Chome-21-31 Achi, Kurashiki, Okayama 710-0055, Japan
Website: Ohashi House
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Adults: 550 JPY (5.17 USD); Seniors: 350 JPY (3.29 USD); School children: 350 JPY (3.29 USD)
8. Pig out on pork don specialities at Kabakuro
So far this list has focused on some of the cultural and historical attractions of Okayama, but if you’re a food fan you won’t be left out during a visit to the city. The popular Kabakuro restaurant produces a range of dishes, including traditional treats such as grilled pork over charcoal with rice, as well as other specialities. One of the higher-rated eateries in Okayama, it enjoys a strong reputation for its food, service and the atmosphere within its stylish wooden interior. Indeed, it has become so popular that queues are not uncommon. It also sells products - such as its own sauces and Butakaba packs - to take away and prepare at home.
Kabakuro
Address: 1 Chome-9-27 Ima, Kita Ward, Okayama, 700-0975, Japan
Website: Kabakuro
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
9. Pick up your next pair of denims at Kojima Jeans Street
Dedicated followers of fashion will no doubt want to make a beeline for the Kojima Jeans Street at some point. Set up in 2010 as a co-operative involving local manufacturers and city commerce leaders, it was intended to breathe fresh life into an ‘abandoned’ street in the Ajino shopping area of old Kojima. The move was a success, with jean shops being followed by a number of cafes and galleries. Today it is a hot spot for fans of denim fashion - with a host of different stores and brands - but is also home to a number of other outlets, including the likes of Jamming, where you can enjoy music while grabbing a drink.
Kojima Jeans Street
Address: 2 Kojimaajino, Kurashiki, Okayama 711-0913, Japan
Website: Kojima Jeans Street
10. Enjoy spectacular scenery from Mt. Washuzan
Whether you’re a fan of a fine vista or a photographer in search of a spectacular landscape, you’ll definitely want to make a beeline for Mt Washuzan. Along with excellent views of the Setonaikai National Park, its elevated vantage point provides the perfect spot to enjoy views of the Great Seto Bridge - the longest bridge system of its type in the world. And, if you think the vista is spectacular at the height of the day - just wait until sunset!
Mt. Washuzan observation deck
Address: 〒711-0925 Okayama, Kurashik
Website: Mt. Washuzan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
11. Stroll the grand 360 m (1181 ft) corridor at Kibitsu Shrine
Welcome to one of Japan’s National Treasures - and that’s official. A fine example of a Shinto shrine, the Kibitsu Shrine’s main hall dates back almost 600 years and is the lone example of the traditional Kibitsu-zukuri architectural style. It has also been an important hub for centuries and was once the chief Shinto shrine for the whole of the former Bitchū Province. Some buildings in the wider complex date back as far as 1357. Among the notable features of this impressive architectural marvel is the 440-year-old roofed, open-air corridor which leads to the main hall and extends an impressive 360 m (1181 ft).
Kibitsu Shrine
Address: 931 Kibitsu, Kita Ward, Okayama, 701-1341, Japan
Website: Kibitsu Shrine
Opening hours: 5am - 6pm (daily)
12. Walk beneath the enormous torii of Saijo Inari
The Saijo Inari temple - or Saijo Inari-san Myokyo-ji to give it its formal title - welcomes more than three million visitors to its main hall every year. The temple boasts a history stretching some 1200 years into antiquity and is regarded as 1 of the 3 major Inari in the whole country - alongside Toyokawa Inari Temple and Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine. A sign of the shrine’s importance is reflected in the scale of its colossal torii - the O-Torii Gate (or Great Gate). Standing 27.5 metres (90 ft) tall it weighs 2,800 tonnes and is one of the largest torii in Japan.
Saijo Inari
Address: 712 Takamatsuinari, Kita Ward, Okayama, 701-1331, Japan
Website: Saijo Inari
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily, general site); Shop: 9am - 4.30pm (daily); Kansho-tei Garden: 9.30am - 3pm (daily)
Price: Free (general site); Kansho-tei Garden: Adults: 300 JPY (2.82 USD); Students: 200 JPY (1.88 USD); children (free )
13. Pick up a peach-shaped protective charm at Kibitsuhikojinja Shrine
Set in front of a mountain which has been revered as a mountain of gods since ancient times, the Kibitsuhikojinja Shrine has been a place of worship for centuries. Its extensive precinct is home to a number of different shrines and water features, while the Asahi Palace is aligned perfectly with the summer solstice so that dawn’s rays enter the temple. The shrine also sells a range of charms designed to protect the bearer - from those for marriages and children to ones for skin protection and even traffic safety. Among the more colourful are the peach-shaped protection charms, which ward against disasters and would make a fine souvenir/gift.
Kibitsuhikojinja Shrine
Address: 1043 Ichinomiya, Kita Ward, Okayama, 701-1211, Japan
Website: Kibitsuhikojinja Shrine
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
14. Hike up to the legendary Kinojo Castle
History and fine views combine to make any visit to Kinojo Castle a memorable one. This legendary castle ruin, which has links to the famous folk tale concerning the legend of Momotarō, dates back an impressive 1300 years. Sat atop the 400 m (1300 ft) summit of Mt Kinojo, its extensive earthworks and stone walls command a fine view. What’s more, any visit to the site - which is included on official lists of Japan’s top 100 castles - also provides plenty of walking options, with a network of trails leading up to it.
Kinojo Castle
Address: Okusaka, Soja City 719-1101, Okayama Prefecture
Website: Kinojo Castle
Price: Free
15. Handmake your own soben noodles at Kamogawa Tenobe Somen Company
Noodles are a well-known Japanese staple, but have you ever wondered how they are made? Well, if you want to turn your hand to a little culinary wizardry then a visit to the Kamogawa Tenobe Somen Company is sure to appeal. The firm has been making noodle dishes for almost 50 years, and even runs an in-house ‘university’, offering people the chance to experience the noodle creation process for themselves. During the three-hour 'course’ you’ll follow the whole process from start to finish. Those who take part will not only get the chance to make their own noodles but pick up a souvenir 'diploma’, for a unique keepsake.
Asakuchi Somen Noodles Workshop
Address: 1981, Kamogatacho Kosakahigashi, Asakuchi-shi, Okayama 719-0241
Website: Asakuchi Somen Noodles Workshop
16. Observe horseshoe crabs up close at Kabutogani Horseshoe Crab and Dinosaur Museum
Find out more about one of nature’s living fossils during a visit to Kabutogani Horseshoe Crab and Dinosaur Museum. Although they are called crabs, the horseshoe variety is relics of a much more primitive lineage dating back some 450 million years. The museum, located in Kasaoka near to the protected Konoshima channel (a recognised breeding spot for the species), features a large aquarium with live examples, displays showcasing everything from ancient horseshoe crab fossils to displays detailing their life cycles. The museum also features dinosaur exhibits, including a moving Baryonyx animatronic, fossils and an outdoor park with eight life-size dino replicas.
Kabutogani Horseshoe Crab and Dinosaur Museum
Address: 1946-2 Yokoshima, Kasaoka, Okayama 714-0043, Japan
Website: Kabutogani Horseshoe Crab and Dinosaur Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Adult: 520 JPY (4.89 USD); Children: 210 - 310 JPY (1.97 - 2.91 USD)
17. Feast on mantis shrimp dons at Shakodon no Mise
For that authentic locally-sourced taste, food fans may wish to stop at Shakodon no Mise in Kasaoka during their stay. This eatery and shop cooks up seafood and rice dishes, including using locally-caught mantis shrimps to prepare the shako-don signature dish from which the outlet gets its name. Other options include giant clams and shrimp. Those tempted to head to it will find the city 50km (31m) to the south-west of Okayama on the San-yo rail line. The eatery is just a 10-minute walk from the station.
Shakodon no Mise
Address: 5914-5 Kasaoka, Kasaoka City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan 714-0081
Website: Shakodon no Mise
Opening hours: 11am - 7pm (Mon - Tue & Thu - Sat); Closed Sun & Wed
18. Marvel at the 'floating' Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle
The highest castle in Japan, Bitchu-Matsuyama sits 430 m (1410ft) above sea level and, thanks to its lofty position, it is not unknown for it to sit above low-lying clouds. This sometimes lends it the appearance of floating in the sky - so make sure to take your camera, and hope weather conditions are favourable. The castle is almost 700 years old but underwent later rebuilds and was restored to its original state in the 1950s. Those seeking to visit the castle and its ‘lord’ - a mascot cat named Sanjūrō who is popular with tourists - should bear in mind that roads don’t go all the way to the fortification, necessitating a hike which can be slippy when wet.
Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle
Address: 1 Uchisange, Takahashi, Okayama 716-0004, Japan
Website: Bitchu-Matsuyama Castle
Opening hours: 9am - 5.30pm (daily); Oct - Mar: 9am - 4.30pm (daily)
Price: 300 JPY - 900 JPY (2.82 USD - 8.46 USD)
19. Visit the vivid red village of Fukiya Furusato
Noted for the Bengara colour pigment it produces, and which adorns most of the buildings, the town of Fukiyu Furusato’s unique appearance is not only a charming destination for tourists and photographers, its ochre-coloured streets have been recognised as being of cultural significance by the Japanese government. As well as its massed traditional buildings, the village is also home to a ceramics museum where people can put the Bengara pigment to good use by hand-making their own pottery.
Fukiya Furusato
Address: 838-2 Nariwacho Fukiya, Takahashi, Okayama 719-2341, Japan
Website: Fukiya Furusato
20. Explore the illuminated limestone caverns of Makido Cave
A natural marvel, the huge limestone Makido Cave in Niimi extends nearly half a kilometre into the hillside (450 metres/1476ft). Those who take a walk along its inner walkways will be confronted by beautiful rock shapes and stalactites, all illuminated by vibrant and colourful floodlights - making it a truly breathtaking location to indulge in a little photography. What’s more, the cave is home to an underground lake - perfect for trying to catch some still reflection shots. More playful visitors may also want to follow a local tradition - by throwing a coin into the site’s garden pond (or sensui) and making a wish.
Makido Cave
Address: 2276-2 Toyonagaakouma, Niimi, Okayama 719-2721, Japan
Website: Makido Cave
Opening hours: 8.30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Adults: 1000 JPY (9.40 USD); Students: 800 JPY (7.52 USD); Children: 500 JPY (4.70 USD)
21. Get up close with jersey cows at Hiruzen Jersey Land
Travellers who enjoy the simple pleasures of nature may wish to head to the Hiruzen Plateau. As well as charming tree-lined mountain slopes, the area is home to this working farm, where Jersey cows chew the cud and produce delicious milk that is used in an array of dairy products - including soft ice cream! Those who enjoy a good beef dish will also be able to pick up some grilled cuts and sausages. Better still, why not give them a whirl in the on-site restaurant, where you can tuck into a meal while enjoying the views. Those who want to get an even more hands-on experience can also turn their hand to a little cow milking and blueberry picking.
Hiruzen Jersey Land
Address: 956-222 Hiruzennakafukuda, Maniwa, Okayama 717-0501, Japan
Website: Hiruzen Jersey Land
Opening hours: Mar - Dec: 9am - 5pm (daily); Jan - Feb: 10am - 4pm (daily)
22. Bathe in the heart of nature at Yubara Onsen
No visit to Japan is truly complete without enjoying one of the country’s myriad hot springs and onsens - its position on the Ring of Fire meaning there are plenty of places to experience the naturally heated waters. Yubara Onsen is one such example, with a number of hotels and public baths springing up around the warm waters. There are also municipal spring buildings where you can enjoy day-bathing. Everything from saunas and hot tubs to hand and foot baths are available. They also range from paying services to free, natural open-air hot springs where you can enjoy the scenery.
Yubara Onsen
Address: Yubaraonsen, Maniwa, Okayama 717-0402, Japan
Website: Yubara Onsen
Price: Free
23. Sightsee the nearby mountain city of Katsuyama
Be it the beautiful, traditional merchant homes and white storehouse which have earned Katsuyama ‘historical preservation district’ status or the nearby Kanba waterfall, which is officially one of the country’s top 100 falls, there’s plenty to see during a visit to this mountain city. Indeed, those who make the 70 - 80 km hop (43 - 50 miles) from Okayama will find a number of other attractions, such as its galleries, cafes and sake brewery. And fans of fine designs will want to keep an eye out for the traditional shop curtains, known as Noren, which adorn more than 100 entrances in a short stretch of the city - all designed by local crafter Yoko Kano.
Katsuyama
Address: Katsuyama, Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture
Website: Katsuyama
24. Snap photos at the former Senyko Elementary School
Relive your school days, or experience a traditional Japanese school meal for the first time with a visit to this former school. Set amid an impressive Renaissance-style building that dates to the turn of the 20th century, the site has been designated an official cultural property. Despite closing its doors in 1990, today it has found new life as Espace Land - featuring everything from a large 500-seat auditorium and a TV studio to Maniwa’s city library and a meeting and training complex. There’s even a coffee shop. Speaking of food, it also holds regular ‘Old School Meals for the Old School’ events, where people can experience a traditional school meal - and even rent school uniforms to really feel the part.
Former Senyko Elementary School
Address: D17-1 Nabeya, Maniwa, Okayama 719-3214, Japan
Website: Former Senyko Elementary School
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 9am - 6pm (closed on Wed)
25. Dip in the beautifying spring waters of Okutsu Onsen
Another option for fans of Japan’s various onsen communities. Okutsu Onsen has been dubbed the ‘Onsen of Beauty’ thanks to its rejuvenating waters’ effects on the skin. Boasting outdoor baths as well as inns which make use of the waters, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take a relaxing dip and ease away those stresses. Culture fans should also keep their eyes peeled for the town’s traditional Washing Dance ceremony - the Ashibumi Sentaku - which sees kimono-clad women making washing motions and treading on garments to 'clean’ them. It takes place at the outdoor bath every Sunday.
Okutsu Onsen
Address: 462 Okutsu, Kagamino, Tomata District, Okayama 708-0503, Japan
Website: Okutsu Onsen
26. Slurp up Okayama's famous Hiruzen Yakisoba
Those who are wondering about what to do in Okayama besides sightseeing and who are craving a unique culinary experience should seek out the famous yakisoba dishes of the Hiruzen plateau. Using locally-sourced chicken and cabbage, the dish’s defining ingredient is its miso-based sauce, a sweet-and-spicy concoction that is unique to the area and you won’t find elsewhere.
Naturally, this local speciality is popular in a range of eateries, including Okayama’s small, family-run Okonomiyaki Teppanyaki Goemon. One of the city’s highly-rated eateries, it enjoys a glowing reputation for its food, value, and service.
Okonomiyaki Teppanyaki Goemon
Address: 2-5 Saiwaicho Kita-Ku, Okayama 700-0903, Okayama Prefecture
Website: Okonomiyaki Teppanyaki Goemon
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6pm - 12pm (closed on Sun)
27. Peek into ancient Japanese school life at Shizutani School
This beautiful Edo-era complex dates back more than 350 years and was the first school in the whole of Japan with the express purpose of educating the general public. This makes it an especially important cultural landmark - and one which has been named among the National Treasures of Japan and as a special historic site. Today it serves as a museum - complete with site tours - preserving the beautiful architecture for future generations, while also continuing its proud teaching history through a youth education centre.
Shizutani School
Address: 784 Shizutani, Bizen, Okayama 705-0036, Japan
Website: Shizutani School
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Adult: 400 JPY (3.76 USD); Students: 100 JPY (0.94 USD); Seniors: 200 JPY (1.88 JPY)
28. Admire the eye-catching pottery of Bizen's Tenshin Shrine/Tianjin Shrine
This centuries-old shrine in Bizen is another site with close connections to the area’s noted bizen-ware pottery. Pottery emblazoned with artists’ marks is embedded in the walls, while the shrine uses bizen-ware tiles on its roof. Fans of the pottery style will also find bizen-ware shops lining the streets on the approach to the torii - perfect for picking up some unique souvenirs. Time your visit right and your trip may coincide with one of the shrine’s festival events - such as the Shinsai Festival in early October.
Bizen's Tenshin Shrine
Address: 629 Inbe, Bizen, Okayama 705-0024
Website: Bizen’s Tenshin Shrine
29. Gorge on delicious oysters on okonomiyaki at Izumi Tomihisa
Another for seafood fans now, the oysters of Nissei Bay are a popular delicacy in Bizen, and those looking to give them a whirl may wish to swing by the Izumi Tomihisa eatery during their trip. This busy, small eatery offers a range of set meal dishes alongside the likes of ramen and yakitori (skewered chicken pieces) but is noted for its seasonal oysters on okonomiyaki - a savoury Japanese pancake. Will you give it a whirl during a visit to Bizen?
Izumi Tomihisa
Address: 890 Hinasecho Hinase, Bizen, Okayama 701-3204, Japan
Website: Izumi Tomihisa
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 9.30pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 10pm
30. Try olive ice cream at Ushimado Olive Garden
A popular spot for walkers, Ushimado Olive Garden is free to visit and boasts charming walks that wind their way through the olive trees and uphill to observation decks with fantastic views across the Seto Inland Sea. What’s more, the observatory, which is split over several floors, includes shop facilities to pick up tasty olive-themed mementos or grab a bite to eat in the cafe, which serves a range of dishes, including sea bream. What better reward for your leisurely uphill exertions than a tasty treat of olive-flavoured ice cream.
Ushimado olive garden
Address: 412-1 Ushimadocho Ushimado, Setouchi, Okayama 701-4302, Japan
Website: Ushimado olive garden
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
31. Tour Buddhist cultural treasures at Koboji Temple
Said to date back to the reign of Emperor Tenchi in the mid-600s, this Buddhist religious site in Setouchi has a fascinating history. Today there are only two towers - Henmei-in and Higashi-in - but it still retains its power, playing host to a major festival every May 5. Designated an important cultural property, the temple displays a range of cultural treasures. These include Buddha statues, as well as paintings and other artefacts such as an impressive statue honouring the famous Buddhist teacher Amida Nyorai - a piece designated an important Japanese cultural property in its own right. The site is also home to the aptly-named Treasure Museum behind the Henmei-in tower.
Koboji Temple
Address: Ushimadocho Senzu, Setouchi, Okayama 701-4304, Japan
32. See art in an old refinery at Inujima Seirensho Art Museum
Located on the small island of Inujima in the Seto Inland Sea - and reachable via ferry from Hoden - this art museum serves to preserve the isle’s industrial heritage while boosting tourism. Located within a short-lived copper refinery - which operated from 1909 to 1919 - Naoshima Fukutake Art Museum Foundation set up a contemporary art museum in 2008 which works to turn the site into a celebration of modern-day architecture, while also promoting a more recycling-based society through the re-use of its industrial roots.
As for artwork enthusiasts, the well-preserved refinery remains will also make arresting targets for your camera. But anyone, regardless of their interests, will find the site a worthy spot for sightseeing in Okayama.
Inujima Seirensho Art Museum
Address: 327-4 Inujima, Higashi Ward, Okayama, 704-8153, Japan
Website: Inujima Seirensho Art Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 9am - 4.30pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 2060 JPY (19.37 USD)
Time to go exploring Okayama Prefecture
From beautiful coastal views of the Seto Inland Sea to mountain vistas, Okayama has a rich variety of landscapes to explore. Throw in such historic gems as Okayama Castle and the great garden of Kōraku-en, and cultural touchstones like the Saijo Inari Temple and the legends surrounding Kinojo Castle - and you’ve got a recipe for a truly memorable visit. Keep this list of the best things to do in Okayama prefecture handy for your next travel adventure in Japan.
Frequently asked questions about the top things to do in Okayama, Japan.
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