As baby pink cherries bloom across Japan, hordes of tourists from all over the world arrive, hopeful to witness this famous explosion of beauty. Japan’s historic and former capital city, Kyoto, is a popular destination, not only during the sakura bloom, but all-year round. The grandeur of its ornate temples, shrines, and natural sights is not to be understated. It hits its tourism peak in the ephemeral autumn and spring, when bright red leaves and pale pink petals color the trees.
In 2023, Japan was among the top destinations for international tourism. Over-tourism has become more pervasive and problematic in these hot spots like Tokyo or Kyoto. It creates significant congestion and accessibility issues, resulting in unfortunate protection measures like banning tourists from the Geisha streets of Gion, or blocking off various views of Mt. Fuji. To mitigate the harmful impact of over-tourism, there are strong national efforts to highlight other regions of Japan.
Due to the current value of the yen against foreign currencies, it is Japan may continue to see an increase in international tourism. It is important travelers bring attention to assist in efforts against over-tourism and prevent the potential destruction of the charm which draws visitors in the first place. This is especially important during the crowded spring season.
Fortunately, Japan is full of hidden gems. Many of its offerings remain to be discovered and sought out by foreign crowds. One spot slowly creeping onto travel blogs is the charming Okayama.
Okayama, Japan is the capital of the coastal Okayama Prefecture. Only a 48-minute bullet train ride from Osaka, Okayama is a unique and ideal addition to any Japan itinerary. For one, it has its own bullet train station and is therefore accessible to other desirable locales such as Kobe, Hiroshima, and even the serene Shikoku region.
While there are magnificent castles across Japan, Okayama Castle is one of Japan’s few with a black exterior, notably different from its neighbors in Himeji or Osaka. It stands in the skyline, an elegant structure against the season’s pink trees. If you’re in the area of the castle, you can easily visit Korakuen, a 32-acre garden considered to be one of the nation’s most beautiful. Explore the various botanical delights, enjoy some matcha ice cream, or even take a ride in a giant peach boat to create the ideal spring day.
While many follow the classic Tokyo-Kyoto itinerary to experience both old and new, Okayama has its own gorgeous traditional offerings off the beaten path. The Bikan Historical Quarter in Kurashiki is a collection of winding stream-side paths, dotted with cafes, shops, and museums. Unlike Arashiyama’s packed streets, a morning to mid-afternoon walk up the steps of Achi-jinja Shrine is nothing short of pleasant.
Don’t let its small-ish population fool you; Okayama houses many domestic and international students attending Okayama University. It boasts a surprising youthful energy. So it follows that it has several, bouncy nightlife options. Foreigners or those less comfortable with Japanese should start the night at the Aussie Bar, an Australian owned-and-operated bar and expat hangout. While there, you can pick up a brochure with nearby recommendations put together by the staff. Tailor a DIY bar crawl to your tastes! If you’re a homesick American you can hit up the Pinball Cafe, a rock-and-roll themed dive. Bartender Hiroshi will offer you a warm welcome, sporting his own greaser-inspired wardrobe. If you’re lucky, he might play your music requests!
During the cherry blossom season, you’ll see groups of friends snacking and imbibing on picnic blankets under the falling petals. Sometimes into the late night hours! This is a tradition known as “hanami” (literally, flower-viewing). For a quirky and local drinking experience, partake in your own hanami. Buy some convenience store snacks, or a bento from a local eatery, and admire the delightful bloom.
With transportation, Okayama boasts several swimming beaches. Be sure to pay mind to seasonal closures; beaches in Japan are often not open year-round. Shibukawa Beach is popular for locals and domestic tourists, being the largest swimming beach in the prefecture. For a more adventurous day trip, Shiraishi Island Beach offers a more secluded experience. A great spot for kayaking!
There is much joy to be found across this under-appreciated prefecture. While some spots should not be missed, Okayama shines when it surprises. Which, if you take care to wander into alleys and unassuming bars, it surely will. For the diversity of its offerings without the inconvenience of a crowd, the area can’t be beat.
Okayama is accessible via bullet train, but also via connection to the Okayama Momotaro Airport. If available, car rentals are recommended to explore nearby nature destinations.