In Okayama Prefecture, pockets of old-world charm and modern sensibility coexist in perfect harmony. Among the most iconic of these are Okayama City’s Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens, and Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter. Walking through these two towns—where history and art, nature and design, tradition and modernity intertwine—is an invitation to step away from the everyday and awaken your senses.
The journey begins at Korakuen Garden, just a short distance from JR Okayama Station. Originally built in the Edo period as a feudal lord’s strolling garden, its chisen-kaiyushiki (pond-centered circular design) layout reveals a different scenic vista with every step. Within its expansive lawns are artfully arranged tea houses, a Noh stage, and landscaped hills, all set against seasonal plantings that evoke a deep sense of calm and spatial depth.
Adjacent to the garden stands Okayama Castle, known as “Ujo” or the “Crow Castle” for its striking black facade. The view of the castle across the river, perfectly framed with the garden in the foreground, offers a rare glimpse into a world where past and present converge—a scene that truly embodies the cultural essence of Okayama.
Just a 20-minute train ride from Okayama Station takes you to Kurashiki, where an entirely different atmosphere awaits. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter preserves the charm of a town that flourished from the Edo to Meiji periods. Along the Kurashiki River, white-walled storehouses, distinctive “namako” lattice walls, and willow-lined paths create a storybook-like setting of quiet elegance—an experience that gently immerses visitors in the beauty of historic Japan.
In Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter, the scent of culture and art lingers at every turn. The Ohara Museum of Art, Japan’s first private museum dedicated to Western art, offers a rare opportunity to view masterpieces by Monet, El Greco, Modigliani, and other iconic artists up close. After immersing yourself in fine art, wander the charming backstreets dotted with cozy cafés and craft shops, and soak in the district’s retro-modern atmosphere.
For lunch or a relaxing break, stop by a renovated machiya (traditional townhouse) restaurant or a wagashi (Japanese sweets) café. Locally inspired cuisine and regional specialties—such as the delicate Kurashiki confection Murasuzume—enhance the sensory journey of your trip. Sitting by the canal with a traditional sweet treat in hand offers a tranquil pause, turning a simple moment into a cherished memory.
Kurashiki is more than just a preserved old town—it is a “living streetscape” where historical aesthetics continue to shape modern life. Art, design, and craftsmanship are deeply embedded in the daily fabric of the town, transforming the entire area into a living gallery. A slow-paced stroll reveals subtle beauty and the refined sensibilities of local artisans, hidden in the details.
A journey through Okayama’s Korakuen Garden and Kurashiki’s Bikan Historical Quarter is a moment immersed in beauty—where the timeless elegance of Japanese tradition gently intertwines with modern sensibilities. Though popular as sightseeing destinations, these places still carry the warmth of everyday life, offering a quiet depth best savored at a leisurely pace.