Okayama , Japan

1 Day Okayama Guided Walking Tour

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About this experience

Nicknamed the 'Land of Sunshine' and boasting iconic sites such as the Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden, and Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, Okayama prefecture offers an exceptionally scenic and historic destination.

Within the Okayama Castle Grounds, visitors can admire the unique “black” castle tower. Inside the main keep, you will be able to learn about Japan's warring-states period.

Nearby Korakuen is one of Japan’s three most famous gardens. This large garden used to serve as an exclusive relaxing place for the feudal lords.

Okayama is also known for its historical townscape. This old merchant town is known as the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. The streets are covered on both sides with old Japanese-style storehouses and former family residences dating back to the time when the city was an important trading and distribution hub. The area is bisected by a willow-lined canal.

Join this 1-Day tour of Okayama for a picturesque journey through the history of Japan.

Available options

1 Day Okayama Guided Walking Tour

What's included

English speaking guide

Transportation to/from activities (public transport)

Entry fees at all tour locations

Detailed itinerary

This castle, which is said have been completed in 1597, was built during a chaotic and violent period of Japanese history known as the Sengoku Period. From the 15th to 16th century, Japan was ravaged by civil wars. By the end of this time period, the country had mostly split into the Western and Eastern Armies, with Okayama serving as a key strategic location for the army in the West. The castle which we can observe today is a replica built in 1966 given the original’s destructing during World War II.

The stories of three generals who are deeply connected to the history of Okayama Castle are highlighted in the museum located within the Main Keep. Your guide will walk you through the different exhibits and provide you with the historic details and context necessary to understand the importance of this castle. You will also be able to explore the castle grounds and observe the main tower’s unique black exterior which helped it earn its nickname of “Crow Castle.”

Stop 2

From here, you will head to Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s top three beautiful gardens. The construction of Korakuen began in 1687 under the orders of the feudal lord Ikeda Tsunamasa. While later lords made a few changes to the garden according to their taste, the garden we see today has, for the most part, kept its appearance from the Edo Period.

The garden has been opened to the general public since 1884, and features multiple tea houses, temples and ponds. While originally meant to be admired from inside its different buildings, Korakuen is now a Kaiyu, or “stroll” style garden. This type of garden is meant to be enjoyed by walking around the different areas connected by undulating paths. At every turn, visitors are presented with a different view, creating an engaging and fulfilling experience. These types of gardens also feature groves of various types of trees which blossom at different times throughout the year, making them even more dynamic and worthy of multiple visits.

Stop 3

From Okayama station, we will head out by train to the city of Kurashiki, where we will be able to visit the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. This beautifully preserved historical district with its old-fashioned buildings will allow guests to picture what life would have been like in the past. The canal running down the middle of the old townscape further adds to the charm and beauty of the area. Your guide will take you to some of the most relevant locations within the historical quarter, such as Achi Shrine, Kurashiki Ivy Square, and former family residences.

You will also have time to walk around the townscape on your own and step into any museums, shops or cafes which pique your interest. If you wish to further immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere of Kurashiki, we encourage you to rent a Kimono at many of the available shops throughout the town. Alternatively, there are may other interesting locations to explore, such as the Ohara Museum of Art and Denim Street.

What's not included

Transportation to meeting point

Accommodation

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Tour Availability Disclaimer: All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.

Meeting point

The meetup point is in front of the Shinkansen gates located near the East Exit at Okayama Station. When you arrive, be sure to look for the guide holding our company tour sign.

About Okayama

Okayama is a vibrant city in western Japan known for its stunning castle, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage. Often called 'The Land of Sunshine,' it offers a mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and delicious local cuisine. The city is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese charm and contemporary urban life.

Top Attractions

Okayama Castle

Okayama Castle, also known as 'Crow Castle' due to its black exterior, is a stunning example of Japanese castle architecture. It offers panoramic views of the city and houses a museum.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥300

Korakuen Garden

Korakuen Garden is one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens. It features ponds, tea houses, and a variety of seasonal plants and flowers.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥300

Okayama Art Museum

The Okayama Art Museum houses a diverse collection of Japanese and international art, including works by famous artists and contemporary pieces.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥300

Omoto Shrine

Omoto Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine dedicated to the goddess of the sun. It is known for its stunning torii gate and serene atmosphere.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Okayama Orizuru Tower

The Okayama Orizuru Tower is a modern landmark in the city, offering panoramic views from its observation deck. The tower is shaped like an orizuru, or paper crane.

Architecture 1 hour Free to enter, observation deck fee applies

Must-Try Local Dishes

Okayama Ramen

A local ramen variety with a rich, soy-based broth and thick, curly noodles, topped with pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.

Dinner Contains pork and eggs, vegetarian and vegan options may be available upon request.

Momiji Manju

A sweet, maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with red bean paste or custard, a popular souvenir from Okayama.

Dessert Vegetarian, may contain gluten and soy.

Bara-zushi

A local sushi variety where vinegared rice is spread on a seaweed mat and topped with fresh fish, then sliced into bite-sized pieces.

Lunch Contains fish and seafood, gluten-free.

Kibi Dango

Sweet rice dumplings skewered on a stick, often coated in soybean flour, kinako, or brown sugar.

Snack Vegetarian, may contain gluten and soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Cycling along scenic routes Kayaking or canoeing in the Asahi River Visiting hot springs (onsen) Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Strolling through Korakuen Garden Exploring Okayama Castle and its museum Visiting local temples and shrines

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, while autumn offers cool temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. These are the best times to visit for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Okayama is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Only use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Okayama Airport • 17 km from city center

By train

Okayama Station

By bus

Okayama Station, Central Okayama

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and covers most major attractions in the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kita-ku Naka-ku Asahi-ku

Day trips

Kurashiki

30 km from Okayama • Half day to full day

Kurashiki is a charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-era merchant district, the Bikan Historical Quarter, and its beautiful gardens and museums.

Kojima

40 km from Okayama • Full day

Kojima is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and fresh seafood. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local delicacies.

Tsuyama

50 km from Okayama • Full day

Tsuyama is a historic town known for its well-preserved castle, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a mix of historical sites and natural beauty.

Festivals

Okayama Matsuri • Late April to early May Korakuen Garden Illumination • Late November to early December Okayama Summer Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photos.
Try Okayama's local specialties, such as Okayama ramen, Momiji manju, and Bara-zushi, for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the historic streets of Sendaimachi Suji and the Bikan Historical Quarter in nearby Kurashiki for a glimpse into Japan's past.
Take a day trip to Kojima to relax on the beach and enjoy fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea.
Visit Okayama during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) or the fall foliage season (November) for stunning natural beauty.