3 Best Sights in Okayama, Western Honshu

Korakuen is a "Special Place of Scenic Beauty" (as designated by the government), and one of Japan's finest gardens. It has charming tea arbors, green lawns, ponds, and hills that were created at the turn of the 18th century on the banks of the Asahi River. Maple, apricot, and cherry trees give the 32-acre park plenty of flowers and shade. The riverside setting, with Okayama Castle in the background, is delightful. The garden's popularity increases in peak season (April to August), but this is one of the country's largest gardens, so you won't feel hemmed in by crowds. From Okayama Station, it is a 20-minute walk, or you can jump on the city tram for three stops to Shiroshita Station, and then it's a five-minute walk.

Painted a shadowy shade of black and set off dramatically by lead tiles and contrasting white vertical-slat shutters, Okayama's castle is known locally as U-jo (Crow Castle). Though it was built in the 16th century, only the "moon-viewing" outlying tower survived World War II. A replica was painstakingly constructed in 1966. The middle floors now house objects that represent the region's history, including a collection of armor and swords and a palanquin you can climb into to have your photo taken. Unlike many other castles with great views, this one has an elevator to take you up the six floors. A five-minute walk across the bridge brings you from the South Exit of Korakuen to the castle. Boats are available for rent on the river below from Hekisuien. Okayama Castle was under renovation until end of 2022.

On display at any time are at least 2,000 items from an impressive collection. Special exhibitions vary, but they generally show how Middle Eastern art reached ancient Japan via the Silk Road. The collections include items ranging from Persian glass goblets to ornate mirrors to early stringed instruments. Located not far from the castle and Korakuen Garden, it is a 15-minute walk from Okayama Station.