OKAYAMA, JAPAN Travel Guide | Happy Trip

OKAYAMA, JAPAN Travel Guide | Happy Trip

Okayama is known as the Land of Sunshine
thanks to its pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. The city is famous for its historic Okayama Castle
and the beautiful Korakuen Garden. Okayama stands out for its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful experience. The city is well-connected to major cities via the Shinkansen bullet train. Here are some of the places to explore during your trip to Okayama. This shrine honors Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, a mythical hero in Japanese folklore, often associated with the region’s ancient traditions. It’s also associated with the myth of Momotaro, a hero born from a giant peach who is said to have come from this area to fight evil. The approach to the shrine is lined with tall pine trees
that enhance the serene atmosphere. This breathtaking 360-meter long walkway, designated as an Important Cultural Property, provides a scenic and peaceful walking experience. Visitors come to Kibitsu Shrine to offer their respects
and enjoy its serene surroundings. To get to Kibitsu Shrine by train, head towards
the Local Line or Central Gate at Okayama Station. Look for signs directing you to the Momotaro Line
and get to Platform 10. Get off at Kibitsu Station. It is only a 7-minute walk to the shrine. This Shinto shrine is also dedicated to the deity Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. People come to the shrine to pray for household safety, business prosperity, safe travels and other significant life concerns. This is one of the most striking features of the shrine: the tallest stone lantern in Japan, reaching a height of 11.5 meters. This sacred tree is believed to be over a thousand years old but was damaged by a fire in 1930. A major restoration was carried out in 2004 to save it. To get to Kibitsuhiko Shrine by train, head towards
the Local Line or Central Gate at Okayama Station. Look for signs directing you to the
Momotaro Line and get to Platform 10. Once you arrive at Bizen-Ichinomiya Station,
the shrine is just a 5-minute walk away. NEXT: You can reach Korakuen Garden
and Okayama Castle from this station… Korakuen is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. Established in 1700, the garden features expansive lawns, ponds and traditional tea houses, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect place to stroll, relax
and take in the natural beauty of Okayama. Korakuen Garden has been awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan and was designated by the Japanese government as an Important Cultural Property and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Initially created as a private space for entertaining guests, it has since been opened to the public and now serves as a cultural heritage site. After being damaged by a flood in 1934 and an air raid in 1945, the garden has since been restored using historical references. NEXT: Okayama Castle
It is a quick 5-minute walk away from Korakuen Garden. Okayama Castle was originally constructed in 1597 and is known as “Crow Castle” due to its distinctive black facade. Although the main tower was destroyed by fire during World War II,
it was reconstructed in 1966. Visitors can view a collection of samurai artifacts
and gain insight into the castle’s rich history. From the top floor, you can see the Asahi River. Okayama prefecture is renowned for its traditional Bizen ware, one of Japan’s oldest and most distinctive styles of pottery. Originating from the city of Bizen,
Bizen ware is known for its rustic appearance. Bizen ware is a great way to bring home
a piece of Okayama prefecture’s history. 📍Bizen Potter’s Organization
We got our Bizen ware from this place. Utilizing the streetcars offer a nostalgic and
efficient way to experience Okayama’s attractions. This vintage-style tram offers a glimpse into the city’s past
and is a fun experience for visitors of all ages. Upon arriving at the JR Okayama Station, navigate to the exit
and you will notice an underground passage. This will lead you to an underground shopping arcade. It serves as a passageway to the Streetcar Station. As you walk through the underground shopping arcade, look for signs guiding you to the Okayama Ekimae Streetcar Station. Take a ticket upon entering. Upon exiting, you have the option to pay with exact cash or an IC card. Thanks for watching and we’ll see you on our next video.

Okayama is one of Japan’s underrated travel destinations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re strolling through the serene Korakuen Garden or exploring the striking black facade of Okayama Castle, this Okayama travel guide will help you uncover the best things to do in this charming and lesser-known corner of Japan.

00:00 Introduction
00:36📍Kibitsu Shrine
-Free Admission.
01:49📍Kibitsuhiko Shrine
-Free Admission.
02:44📍Korakuen Garden
-Admission Fees: https://okayama-korakuen.jp/section/english/info/index.html
03:52📍Okayama Castle
-Admission Fees: https://okayama-castle.jp/guide-en/
04:33 Bizen Ware
05:02 How To Get Around

Music used:
Forgiven Fate – Dan Lebowitz
The Color of the Barrel – Nathan Moore
Swaying Silhouettes – Nathan Moore