Okayama is an excellent destination for a day trip if traveling the San’yo Shinkansen or a cultural retreat. This major transport hub is popular for its white peaches, black castle, and famous garden. A Japanese fairytale about Momotaro, or Peach Boy, is said to have taken place here, and his cultural impact can be seen in almost everything from statues to manhole covers.
Okayama Airport services the city with flights from Japan and a couple other Asian cities, while
Okayama Station serves as a major stop on the San’yo Shinkansen line.
When visiting Okayama for either a day trip or a few days, the statues of Momotaro are undoubtedly going to get your attention. Statues of a dog, monkey, and pheasant will also be seen, representing the Peach Boy’s travel companions that joined him as he went to fight the demons. If not already captivated by the city, knowing the story behind these characters can add some magic and relevance to a visit here. Catching a photo-op with Momotaro or his companions is the way to go when heading to the Culture Zone, an area with the city’s main sites on the eastern side of the central business district. The city’s most well-known site and one of Japan’s top three best landscaped gardens –
Korakuen Garden – is found here. Across from it is
Okayama Castle, a striking piece of architecture noted for its black color. These historical and cultural sites provide excellent sightseeing destinations as well as excellent insight into the area’s history.
Be sure to check out the interactive map of Okayama for information on hotel locations, attractions, and must-see destinations.
