Okayama Japan 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Okayama City

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty Japanese breakfast at Korakuen, located in Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscaped gardens.

  • Mid-Morning: Visit the famous Okayama Castle, also known as ‘Crow Castle’ due to its black color. The castle is a symbol of Okayama and offers beautiful views of the city.

  • Afternoon: Head to Ritsumeikan Park for a peaceful stroll, and then explore the nearby Momoyama District with its charming old houses and unique shops.

  • Evening: Dine at Izakaya Yokobori for a traditional Japanese Izakaya experience.

  • Night: Return to Hotel Granvia Okayama, located within the JR Okayama Station building, offering easy access to transportation and city amenities.

Day 2: Kurashiki and surrounding areas

  • Morning: Take a day trip to nearby Kurashiki and visit the Bikan Historical Quarter, with its picturesque canals and traditional merchant houses. Don’t miss the Ohara Museum of Art, home to works by Monet, Renoir, Picasso, and other famous artists.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Iwakuni Kintai Bridge and explore the town of Iwakuni. The bridge offers stunning views and is a great spot for photos.

  • Evening: Return to Okayama City and dine at Izumo Soba Naritaya, a popular soba (buckwheat noodle) restaurant with several locations in the city.

Day 3: Naoshima Island

  • Morning: Take a ferry from Uno Port to Naoshima Island, a small island famous for its modern art museums and sculptures.

  • Afternoon: Spend your time exploring the Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House Museum, and other art installations around the island.

  • Evening: Dine at Kaito Sushi Restaurant in Miyanoura Port before catching your ferry back to Uno Port and returning to Okayama City.

Things to Know:

  • Transportation: The JR Sanyo Shinkansen connects Tokyo, Osaka, and Okayama in just over 2 hours. Within Okayama, the city’s tram system offers a convenient way to get around.

  • Money: Exchange money at banks or ATMs upon arrival as credit cards are not always accepted.

  • Language: While many people in Okayama speak some English, it is helpful to have a translation app or a basic understanding of Japanese.

  • Cultural Sensitivity: Remember to remove your shoes when entering homes and temples, and follow any other cultural customs you may encounter during your trip.

  • Tips: Try local specialties such as Momokawa (a type of persimmon), Kibōnashi (steamed bread with miso), and Biwachūhaku (a type of sake brewed in Okayama).

Enjoy your trip to Okayama, Japan!