Okayama, Japan 2 Day Itinerary

July 8, 2024

Day 1: Exploring Historical and Cultural Sites

Morning:

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Korakuen in Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscaped gardens.
Visit the famous CORCODA Museum, home to over 170 species of crocodiles from around the world.

Afternoon:

Head to Okayama Castle, also known as “Crow Castle” due to its black color. Explore the castle keep and the surrounding gardens.
Next, visit the Okayama Art Museum, Kaiyukan to admire contemporary art from Japan and around the world.

Evening:

For dinner, try local specialties like Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped sweet buns filled with red bean paste), Kibi Dango (rice dumplings), and sake at Ishidori Sake Brewery in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.
Stroll around the beautiful Kurashiki Bikan Quarter, a well-preserved Edo Period district with picturesque canals and old merchants’ houses.

Night:

Check-in at Hotel New Hankyu Okayama, a modern hotel conveniently located near the train station.

Things to Know: -Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY) -Language: Japanese (English proficiency varies) -Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering homes or tatami rooms, and bow slightly when greeting others. -Transportation: Okayama is served by the JR Sanyo Shinkansen line and has local trains connecting to various destinations. Buses and trams are also available in the city. -Tips: Purchase a JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass for unlimited travel in the Kansai region, including Okayama.

Day 2: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

Take a day trip to Setonaikai National Park and visit the beautiful island of Naoshima (accessible by ferry from Uno Port).
Explore the Chichu Art Museum, showcasing works by James Turrell, Claude Monet, and Walter De Maria.

Afternoon:

Visit the Art House Project for a unique art experience inside traditional Japanese houses.
Relax on the beach or enjoy a picnic lunch at Miyanoura Port before returning to Okayama.

Evening:

For dinner, try Kibi beef (a type of Japanese Wagyu beef) at one of the many restaurants in downtown Okayama.
Spend your last evening exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at bars and izakayas around the train station area.

Tips:

Reserve tickets for popular attractions like the Chichu Art Museum ahead of time to avoid long queues.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as there will be a lot of walking during your trip.
Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen, especially during summer months.
Enjoy your travels in Okayama, Japan!