Okayama, Japan-4-day-itinerary

Okayama Itinerary (4 Days)

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Okayama Station ()
  • Take a short walk to Okayama Castle () and enjoy the beautiful gardens and castle architecture
  • Visit the nearby Okayama Korakuen Garden (), a beautiful Japanese garden with a peaceful atmosphere

Afternoon

  • Head to Omotecho Shopping Street (), a lively shopping street lined with local shops, cafes, and restaurants
  • Try some local street food at Okayama Ichibangai (), a popular food stall area

Evening

  • Stay at Hotel Granvia Okayama () or similar, conveniently located near the station
  • Enjoy dinner at Kappo Ryokuchi (), serving delicious local cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Tips:

  • Okayama Castle offers a free admission ticket for foreigners, so don’t forget to show your passport!
  • Omotecho Shopping Street is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Day 2: Kibitsu and Bizen

Morning

  • Take the JR train from Okayama Station to Kibitsu Station () ( approx. 30 minutes)
  • Visit Kibitsu Shrine (), a historic shrine with beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings
  • Explore the nearby Kibitsu Town (), known for its traditional Japanese architecture and charming atmosphere

Afternoon

  • Head to Bizen (), a city famous for its pottery and ceramics (approx. 1 hour by car or taxi)
  • Visit the Bizen Pottery Museum () to learn about the history and craftsmanship of Bizen pottery
  • Explore the Bizen Pottery Village (), where you can see artisans at work and purchase local pottery

Evening

  • Stay overnight at a local ryokan, such as Ryokan Kawachi (), for a traditional Japanese experience
  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Yakichi (), serving local specialties and seasonal ingredients

Tips:

  • Kibitsu Shrine is a bit of a walk from the station, so consider taking a taxi if you’re short on time.
  • Bizen Pottery Village can be quite crowded during peak season, so plan ahead.

Day 3: Naoshima Island

Morning

  • Take the ferry from Uno Port () to Naoshima Island () (approx. 1 hour)
  • Visit the Chichu Art Museum (), a modern art museum designed by Tadao Ando
  • Explore the Benesse House Museum (), a unique art museum with an emphasis on contemporary art

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at Restaurant Guntu (), serving fresh seafood and local ingredients
  • Visit the Naoshima Bath “I” (), a public bath designed by Shinro Otake
  • Explore the island’s scenic coastline and beaches, such as Kusatsu Beach ()

Evening

  • Stay overnight on Naoshima Island at Hotel Benesse House () or similar
  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Issen (), serving local seafood and seasonal ingredients

Tips:

  • The ferry schedule can be affected by weather conditions, so check ahead of time.
  • Naoshima Island is a popular destination, so consider booking accommodations and restaurants in advance.

Day 4: Return to Okayama

Morning

  • Take the ferry back to Uno Port () (approx. 1 hour)
  • Visit the Okayama Prefectural Museum (), which showcases the history and culture of Okayama Prefecture
  • Explore the nearby Okayama City Museum (), featuring exhibits on local art, history, and industry

Afternoon

  • Head back to Okayama Station for your departure
  • Consider visiting the AEON Mall Okayama () for some last-minute shopping or dining

Transportation:

  • JR trains connect Okayama to Kibitsu and Bizen
  • Ferries operate between Uno Port and Naoshima Island
  • Taxis and buses are available for shorter distances

Other Tips:

  • Okayama has a convenient city loop bus that covers many major attractions
  • Many restaurants in Okayama offer English menus or pictures, but it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Japanese phrases
  • Don’t forget to try some local specialties, such as Okayama-style barazushi (pressed sushi) and kibitsu-style manju (steamed buns)!