• Okayama Castle - Okayama Castle (岡山城, Okayamajō), often referred to as “crow castle” due to its dark exterior, was originally constructed in 1597, reflecting the Azuchi-Momoyama Period style. Although the original structure was destroyed in the final year of World War II, it was reconstructed in 1966. The castle is situated along the Asahi River, which served as a natural moat. Korakuen Garden is conveniently located just across the river.

Only one of the original buildings of Okayama Castle, the Tsukimi Yagura (“moon viewing turret”), survived the war and dates back to 1620. Additionally, there are reconstructions and excavated foundations of several other former structures, providing insight into the castle complex’s original grandeur.

• Okayama Korakuen Garden - Korakuen (後楽園, Kōrakuen) is a stunning landscape garden and a major attraction in Okayama. Alongside Kanazawa’s Kenrokuen and Mito’s Kairakuen, Korakuen is celebrated as one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens. It is located adjacent to Okayama Castle, which serves as “borrowed scenery” from the garden.

The local feudal lord commissioned Korakuen’s construction in 1687 as a venue for the ruling family’s entertainment and a place to host distinguished guests. Occasionally, the public was allowed to visit the garden.

• Kibiji Museum of Literature - The Kibi Plain (吉備路, Kibiji) is a picturesque, rural flatland just outside central Okayama City, characterized by expansive fields and dotted with shrines, temples, and small clusters of farmhouses. The plain is best explored via a scenic cycling trail that passes several historic sites.

In the 4th century, the Kibi Plain was the heart of the Kibi Kingdom, an ancient clan that dominated much of what is now Okayama Prefecture and rivaled the powerful Yamato Clan in today’s Nara Prefecture. Several historic sites related to the kingdom, including large burial mounds and shrines, are scattered throughout the plain.

• Handayama Botany - The Handayama Botanical Garden is a favorite cherry blossom spot in Okayama, surpassing even Korakuen or the Asahi River.

This hillside garden offers city views and boasts an impressive 1,000 cherry trees, creating a fully immersive experience in the blossoms.

The best part is that this hidden gem remains uncrowded, even on sunny weekends during peak bloom. There are ample grassy areas to relax, enjoy the flowers, or have a picnic.

• Nishigawa Canal Park - While not a top tourist attraction in Okayama, the Nishigawa Canal Park is a delightful spot for a jog or stroll, especially during cherry blossom season.

The canal meanders through the city, lined with flowers, cherry trees, and sculptures, with benches to sit and appreciate the scenery.

• Kurashiki - Kurashiki is a popular day trip from Okayama, just a 20-minute train ride away.

Visitors are drawn to the city’s Bizan Historical Quarter, a charming area featuring traditional Japanese houses and a canal lined with weeping willow trees.

Dating back to the 1600s, this area was a key location on Japan’s rice trade route. Rice was transported there on canal barges and stored in warehouses before being shipped to cities.

The warehouses, with their white walls and black tiles, have been preserved and now house shops and cafes.

• Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Okayama
• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• Private transportation
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

Embark on a fantastic journey through Okayama with a licensed, multilingual tour professional. This trip is designed to deliver maximum value and efficiency in your exploration of Okayama City.

Korakuen Garden, Okayama City’s gem, is famous as one of the three best gardens in Japan. Admire the springtime bloom of cherry blossoms, the vibrant hues of maple trees in the fall, and the year-round charm of the nearby Okayama Castle’s jet-black facade. Moreover, Okayama serves as a critical junction for the Shinkansen and railway services on Shikoku Island.

Share your preferences and let us tailor a six-hour tour just for you!

Note1: Please choose your preferred attractions from a list in the tour details to create a personalized itinerary.
Note2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification, awarded by the Japanese government, demands a robust understanding and knowledge of Japanese culture and history.

• This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.