The deep charm and history of Okayama Prefecture: A record of the travel experience experienced by female writer Kasumi
- Introduction: Encounter with Okayama Prefecture
- Hidden charms of Okayama Prefecture: My recommended spots and experiences
- Tips for enjoying Okayama Prefecture: Kasumi’s travel tips
- summary
- Historical buildings selected by Kasumi
Introduction: Encounter with Okayama Prefecture
I’m Kasumi, a travel web writer who has traveled to 47 prefectures in Japan. One of the places that particularly stuck in my mind was Okayama Prefecture. I would like to explain why I love Okayama Prefecture so deeply, as well as dig deeper into its charm and history.
First encounter with Okayama Prefecture
I visited Okayama Prefecture several years ago. At that time, it was just one of the places I stopped by while traveling around Japan. However, during that trip, I had more and more opportunities to experience Okayama Prefecture’s rich nature, the warmth of its people, and its rich history, and I gradually became drawn to the charm of this place.
Learn about the charms of Okayama Prefecture in numbers
On average, Okayama Prefecture is said to receive more than 5 million tourists annually. This number can be said to be quite large compared to nearby tourist destinations. Additionally, the average level of satisfaction with tourist facilities and services in Okayama Prefecture is high compared to other countries, and is particularly highly rated by female tourists.
Okayama prefecture’s accommodations and sightseeing spots are consistently ranked high on major travel services such as JTB and Rakuten Travel. These numbers also show how attractive Okayama Prefecture is.
Historical spots in Okayama prefecture
Okayama Prefecture has a long history, and many events that colored Japanese history took place here, including the Heian period, Sengoku period, and Edo period. In particular, Okayama Castle and Korakuen are known as representative historical buildings of Okayama Prefecture.
Okayama Castle is a historic castle that is said to have been built during the Sengoku period, and is known for its black and beautiful exterior, also known as “crow castle.” Korakuen is also considered one of Japan’s top three gardens, and you can enjoy the beauty of each season. When I visited there, I was captivated by the beauty of the scenery and the tranquility of time passing there.
Hidden charms of Okayama Prefecture: My recommended spots and experiences
Mimasaka Sanzan: Experience Japan’s original scenery
Okayama Prefecture is dotted with famous tourist spots such as Korakuen and Okayama Castle, but I especially recommend the Mimasaka Sanzan (Hiruzen, Kagamino, and Tsuyama). This area is a place where you can truly feel the original scenery of Japan, with beautiful mountains and valleys. Especially during the fall foliage season, the mountains are covered in colorful leaves that leave you speechless with their beauty.
When I visited, hiking at Hiruzen Plateau was a relaxing time that made me forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Along the way, we took a break at a cafe run by locals, enjoying dishes made with fresh vegetables and homemade sweets, and enjoying a sense of unity with nature.
Okayama’s charming gourmet food: peaches and denim
Okayama prefecture is famous for its peaches. In summer, sweet and juicy peaches are available at markets and direct sales stands. When I visited, I experienced peach picking at a local farm and tasted the peaches harvested on the spot, which is an unforgettable memory to this day.
Another thing that is surprisingly little known is the denim culture of Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture. In fact, Kurashiki City is the birthplace of “Japan Denim” and is a popular spot for many fashionistas from Japan and abroad. Among the many denim brands, “MOMOTARO JEANS” and “Japan Blue”, which are famous for their “Jeans Street” brands, have received high praise from all over the world.
Dig deeper into Okayama’s history with an experiential tour
When sightseeing in Okayama Prefecture, you can not only see things, but also experience them to gain a deeper sense of the charm of the area. I especially recommend a historical tour with a local guide.
In particular, you can take a leisurely stroll through the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, where you can take a leisurely stroll through the streets and historical buildings that retain the atmosphere of the Edo period.With commentary from local guides, you can learn more about Okayama’s history and culture. can do.
Okayama Prefecture is a place with a variety of charms, from famous tourist spots to hidden spots that only locals know about. Beautiful nature, delicious gourmet food, and deep history. Through my experience, I would like as many people as possible to know about these charms. In the next part, we will give you tips for sightseeing in Okayama Prefecture and provide more in-depth information. looking forward to!
Tips for enjoying Okayama Prefecture: Kasumi’s travel tips
In search of a spectacular view: Mimasaka’s starry sky
The Mimasaka region of Okayama Prefecture is known as a place where the starry sky sparkles at night. In particular, “Mimasaka Star Village” is one of the few starry sky observation sites in Japan, and is a must-visit spot for star lovers. On the night I visited here, the sight of countless stars and the Milky Way gave me the feeling of a quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Interacting with the locals: Farm stay experience
It’s good to stay at hotels and inns when traveling, but if you’re looking to interact with the locals, we recommend staying at a farmhouse. There are many farmhouses in Okayama Prefecture, where you can learn about daily farming, cooking, and local culture and customs. When I stayed there, I was impressed by the warmth of the local people and the deliciousness of the homemade food.
Learn about Okayama’s traditions: Traditional crafts workshop
Okayama Prefecture is home to many traditional crafts such as “Okayama Kasa” and “Bizen ware.” In addition to simply purchasing these crafts, we also recommend trying your hand at making them. I participated in the “Bizen ware pottery class” and made an original pottery by hand. The fun in the process of making something and the sense of accomplishment when it’s completed are things you can’t get just by looking at it.
At the end of your trip: Choosing souvenirs from Okayama
On the way back from Okayama Prefecture, one thing you should never forget is choosing souvenirs. My recommendations include Okayama’s famous “Momotaro Manju” and “Bizen ware accessories,” as well as products from “JA Okayama,” which sells fresh Okayama fruits. By taking these souvenirs home, you can share the charm and taste of Okayama with your family and friends.
summary
Okayama Prefecture is a place where you can experience not only tourist attractions but also deeper charm by interacting with local people and experiencing traditional culture. Please refer to my tips and tricks for traveling to Okayama and create your own wonderful travel memories. Finally, I would be happy if those who read this article could feel the deep charm and history of Okayama Prefecture. I sincerely hope you have a safe trip.
Historical buildings selected by Kasumi
Okayama Prefecture is a place where you can feel not only the beauty of nature, but also the depth of history. Among them, we selected five historical buildings that were particularly impressive. I’ll give each building a “Kasumi Point” and explain why I chose it.
1. Okayama Castle (Okayama City)
Kasumi points:
Okayama Castle, also commonly referred to as “Crow Castle,” is beautiful with its unique black exterior. The inside of the castle is an exhibition room where you can learn about the history and culture of Okayama.
2. Streetscape of Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (Kurashiki City)
Kasumi points:
This area retains a strong atmosphere from the Edo period, with white-walled storehouses and old townhouses lined up, giving you a sense of the times. You can experience the atmosphere of old Japan just by walking around.
3. Kibitsu Shrine (Okayama City)
Kasumi points:
This is an old shrine dedicated to Kibitsuhiko no Mikoto, and contains many treasures related to history and mythology. In particular, the “Kibi Dango Festival” held every spring is not to be missed.
4. Tamashima Akasaka Historical Folk House Park (Tamashima, Kurashiki City)
Kasumi points:
This park, where private houses and storehouses from the Edo period to the early Showa period have been relocated and preserved, is a valuable place where you can get a glimpse of life back then. Actual daily necessities and furniture are also on display.
5. Kasaoka Castle Ruins Park (Kasaoka City)
Kasumi points:
This is a park built on the site of the former Kasaoka Castle. The stone walls and moat retain the appearance of those days, and you can enjoy a walk through history while enjoying the scent of the ocean.
