Things to do in Okayama

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Okayama
Okayama
Okayama
Okayama
Okayama

Okayama Attractions

It's not the biggest city around, but Okayama punches way above its weight when it comes to tourist attractions. Whether you're on the hunt for fun-filled activities, enthralling local history or culinary delights, you're sure to find plenty to keep you occupied here.

If you're ready to discover the best of Okayama, join a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have an experienced guide show you the most popular landmarks. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {14 fun activities in Okayama fun activities in Okayama} are also worth checking out.


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Okayama must see attractions

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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Okayama University featuring street scenes, a garden and cycling

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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Aeon Mall Okayama featuring a city, night scenes and signage

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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Okayama 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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Korakuen Garden

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 Shrine

6. Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art

Given the natural beauty surrounding Okayama, it perhaps isn’t surprising that the Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art possesses an impressive collection of art by local artists. Dedicated to displaying art that has “a connection to Okayama Prefecture,” the museum gives a glimpse into the sensibility of Okayama’s artists. Look at traditional-style brush paintings or admire the more modern art being produced in the region, looking forward to the future.
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Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art

What to do in Okayama

Free Things to Do in Okayama

Leave your purse in the hotel. It's a cinch to have a blast in Okayama without handing over a cent.

Sanyo Gakuen University - Architecture aficionado or not, prepare to be awed by this landmark's modern design.

Things to Do in Okayama with Kids

There are plenty of fun activities to do with the kids in and around Okayama. Keep the crew happy with our family friendly experiences.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Okayama? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Okayama

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Okayama

Okayama

Kita Ward

5/5(23 area reviews)

While visiting Kita Ward, you might make a stop by sights like Kanko Stadium and Kibitsu Shrine.

Kita Ward
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Minami Ward

If you're spending some time in Minami Ward, Setonaikai National Park and Okayama South Village 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

You might make a stop by Ani Shrine while you're exploring Higashi Ward.

Higashi Ward
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Omotecho

If you're spending some time in Omotecho, Okayama Performing Arts Theatre and Sunny Country Okayama-kan are top sights worth seeing.

Omotecho
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Nakasange

While there might not be top attractions in Nakasange, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art and Okayama Castle.

Nakasange

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Okayama

Frequently asked questions

Is Okayama worth visiting?
With a mix of views and nature, there are plenty of things to do in Okayama. When you're here, check out Okayama Castle, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Okayama?
When you've checked off key attractions like Okayama Castle, spend some time discovering the retail and food scene in Okayama.
What is the top tourist attraction in Okayama?
The top tourist attraction near Okayama is Okayama Castle, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Okayama?
With a three-day vacation in Okayama, you can easily visit the area's many awesome sights, like Okayama Castle and Orient Museum.
Is Okayama a walkable neighborhood?
If you enjoy walking, Okayama is ideal. You can get to key sights like Okayama Castle and Orient Museum on foot. At 2 miles from the center, the neighborhood of Naka Ward is also close enough for a casual stroll. The same goes for Aminohama, roughly 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Okayama with kids?
Planning what to do in Okayama with kids has never been easier. Whether you're vacationing with little ones or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Okayama for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Okayama. Whether you're into traditional cuisine, outdoor activities or just love exploring new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Okayama?
Near Okayama, Omoto Central Park is a terrific spot for anyone looking to enjoy the area without spending a cent. Also, wander through local green spaces and other neighborhoods nearby, and don't hesitate to ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a great way to learn about the top free things to do in Okayama.

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