Okayama

Okayama is home to Korakuen, one of Japan's three great landscape gardens. Completed in 1700 by the local feudal lord, its sweeping lawns, plum groves, tea fields, and winding streams set a standard for classical Japanese garden design. With the dark silhouette of Okayama Castle (“Crow Castle”) rising directly across the Asahi River, the pairing is one of the most photogenic scenes in western Japan.

Often bypassed by tourists rushing between Hiroshima and Osaka, Okayama rewards those who stop. The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter — just 15 minutes away by train — preserves white-walled canal warehouses turned art galleries and craft shops. Okayama also enjoys some of Japan's sunniest weather, earning it the nickname “the Land of Sunshine.” It's famous for its exceptional white peaches and Muscat grapes.