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Okayama Prefecture|A Land of Culture and Harvest in Japan’s “Sunny Country”

岡山県

 

 

Okayama Prefecture|A Land of Culture and Harvest in Japan’s “Sunny Country”

 

Okayama Prefecture, located in the southern part of Honshu along the Seto Inland Sea, is affectionately known as the “Sunny Country” for its mild climate and low rainfall throughout the year. This favorable environment has nurtured both a rich agricultural heritage and a comfortable lifestyle.

 

The prefecture is home to scenic and historical landmarks such as the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, where Edo-period architecture lines peaceful canals, and Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens.

Together with Okayama Castle, Korakuen offers a tranquil setting where nature and tradition harmonize.

 

Okayama is particularly celebrated for its premium fruits. White peaches and the luxurious Muscat of Alexandria grapes thrive here, thanks to the area’s abundant sunshine and fertile soil, making the prefecture one of Japan’s most renowned fruit producers.

 

Historically, Okayama was the heart of the ancient Kibi region. Sites such as Kibitsu Shrine and numerous ancient burial mounds reflect its deep cultural roots. The region is also associated with the Momotaro (Peach Boy) legend, adding a mythical charm to its historical significance.

 

With its mild climate, cultural landmarks, and rich agricultural output, Okayama offers a harmonious blend of nature, tradition, and everyday comfort.

 

Okayama map

 

Prefectural capital
  • Okayama City

 

Major Cities
  • OKayama city
  • Kurashiki city
  • Tsuyama city

 

Population
  • Approximately 1.9million

 

Major Tourist Attractions and Events
  • Korakuen Garden (One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens)
  • Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
  • Okayama Castle

 

Local Cuisine
  • Festival-style sushi, a colorful and decorative dish often enjoyed on special occasions in Okayama.
  • Vinegared sappa (mamakari), a local delicacy of pickled fish known for its refreshing taste.

 

Craft Works
  • Bizen-yaki – Bizen pottery
  • Kurashiki-hanpu – Kurashiki canvas textiles

 

 

⇒ Read Posts about Okayama

 

瀬戸内海—穏やかな海と多島美が織りなす、日本ならではの美しい海景。

Seto Inland Sea — A uniquely Japanese seascape, where calm waters and a multitude of islands create breathtaking beauty.

 

黒漆塗りの外観が特徴の岡山城天守閣。堀の水面に美しく映える姿が印象的。

Okayama Korakuen is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, offering seasonal beauty with Okayama Castle in the background.

 

岡山城を背景に広がる日本三名園のひとつ、岡山後楽園。四季折々の風景が楽しめる大名庭園。

Okayama Korakuen is one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, offering seasonal beauty with Okayama Castle in the background.

 

白壁の蔵と柳並木が美しい、倉敷美観地区の歴史情緒あふれる街並み。

The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter features traditional white-walled storehouses and willow-lined canals—a townscape steeped in charm and history.

 

田園風景の中にそびえる備中国分寺の五重塔。岡山を代表する歴史的なランドマーク

The five-story pagoda of Bitchu Kokubunji rises above the rural landscape—a historic symbol of Okayama.