Things to do in Okayama

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Okayama

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Top places to visit

1. Okayama University

Okayama University is a great place to learn Japanese, but you'll also hear other languages spoken on campus. Thoroughly international, the university has a robust exchange program that brings people from all over the world to study on its modern campuses.
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A dynamically modern university, resolutely open to the whole world, occupies a set of campus buildings scattered near Okayama’s downtown.

2. Aeon Mall Okayama

AEON Mall Okayama provides the perfect setting for the exhilarating experience of visiting a Japanese mall. Occupying a modern building, the 300 shops that sell their wares over the mall’s nine levels bring a taste of Japan and the world to the very center of Okayama. The location is extremely convenient, right across from Okayama Station. Purchase something to eat on arrival or before departure, pick up last-minute souvenirs or dedicate a whole day to exploring every floor and corridor.
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One of Western Japan’s biggest shopping malls has more than 300 shops, restaurants and more, just a few steps from the train station.

3. Okayama Castle

Jet black, adorned only with gilded gargoyles, Okayama Castle is an imposing sight. Built in the 16th century as the home of the Ikeda clan, Okayama’s feudal rulers, it was the center of governance in Okayama and Kyushu for hundreds of years until its destruction during World War II. It was reconstructed in 1966. Arrive today to explore a modern museum dedicated to giving visitors, especially children, hands-on experiences of Okayama culture.
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Try on a kimono or attempt to sculpt some Bizen pottery while you tour an accurate reconstruction of Kyushu’s famous “crow castle.”

4. Korakuen Garden

Visiting Okayama without touring the Korakuen Garden means you’d miss out on a whole dimension of Okayama’s art and history. Created in 1687 by Ikeda Tsunamasa, who was looking to create a place of rest near his palace, the garden offers a retreat from the bustle of the city for commoners as well. Go on a quick stroll to see its various vistas or spend the whole day exploring all the surprises, from teahouses to plum groves. You’ll soon understand why it is consistently ranked as one of Japan’s top three gardens.
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Tradition and innovation mingle in a remarkable riverside landscaped space, founded in the 17th century and considered one of Japan’s best gardens.

5. Kibitsu Shrine

In the story most closely associated with the Kibitsu Shrine, a boy, Momotaro, comes to Earth in a giant peach and defeats a demon with the help of a dog, pheasant and monkey. The story is famous in Japan, echoed in the peach-shaped “Momomamori” romance amulets sold in the shrine’s shop. It was inspired by the slightly more realistic legend of Prince Kibitsuhiko no Mikoto, who defeated an evil prince by shooting arrows from this spot. Visit the shrine for its stories and distinctive architectural style, not replicated anywhere else in Japan.
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Kibitsu-zukuri style architecture has an excellent example in is this sprawling temple complex considered the origin of the Momotaro story.

6. Orient Museum

The Orient Museum is not the place to look for traditional Japanese art. Instead it has a collection centered on ancient Persia, going as far west as Greece. The museum was founded with the private collection of Mr. Shinjiro Yasuhara, who dedicated his 5,000 artifacts to the city upon his death. Get an opportunity to both look at the art of the ancient Middle East and see how the region is understood by the Japanese.
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This impressive collection of art from the ancient Middle East, Persia and the Mediterranean includes a magnificent Assyrian relief of Apkallu.

Popular places to visit

Areas of Okayama

Okayama

Kita Ward

While visiting Kita Ward, you might make a stop by sights like Hokai-in Temple and Kanko Stadium.

Kita Ward
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Minami Ward

If you're spending some time in Minami Ward, Okayama South Village and Setonaikai National Park are top sights worth seeing.

Minami Ward
Okayama featuring interior views

Naka Ward

If you're spending some time in Naka Ward, Yumeji Art Museum and Parade Hill Park are top sights worth seeing.

Naka Ward
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Higashi Ward

While visiting Higashi Ward, you might make a stop by sights like Saidaijikannon-in Temple and Ani Shrine.

Higashi Ward