More about hotels in Okayama
A Brief Overview of Okayama
Okayama is the capital of Okayama Prefecture, Japan. The city faces Shikoku Island and the Seto Inland Sea. Okayama Prefecture itself is also known as "The Land of Sunshine" because the sun shines well throughout the year. So Okayama is a pleasant place to visit.
Okayama Prefecture, a prosperous region, is thought to have been inhabited by humans since Japan's paleolithic period. Kibi Province established alliance relations with what is now Okayama Prefecture, northern and central Hiroshima Prefecture, various islands in Kagawa Prefecture and the Harima area in Hyogo Prefecture.
In the Heian period, Kibi Province became the power center of the Taira Clan. This clan was quite influential in the eastern part of Japan and later moved to Kibi province. Then with the permission of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, in the late 15th century an Okayama Castle was built. On July 14, 1871, the prefectural system was introduced. Then the boundaries of Okayama Prefecture were finally officially established in 1876.
What Does Best Known For Okayama
Okayama is famous for its delicious fruits. Okayama City, the prefectural capital and largest city, is home to the majestic black Okayama Castle and Okayama Korakuen, the three largest landscaped gardens in Japan.
Okayama Castle is so majestic that people refer to it as Ujo or "Crow Castle". Okayama Castle is located across the Asahi River. There are many resting places to sit and enjoy the view. With Korakuen Park next door, locals usually use the main street of the palace for their daily activities.
In addition to Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden is considered one of the top three traditional gardens in Japan. It was even awarded three stars by Michelin Green Guide Japan, and later designated as a Historical and Cultural Heritage site. Because of its sterling reputation, the garden is widely revered as a charming and beautiful place to spend time all year round.
How to Get to Okayama from Australia
Traveling to Okayama from Australia can only be done by flight due to the long distance. Australians can enter and stay in Japan visa-free for a maximum of 90 days. So, you don't have to worry about a Japanese visa if you want to travel to Japan for a while.
You can leave from various international airports available in Australia, including from the cities of Sydney Kingsford Smith, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide. Book a flight to Okayama in Japan. This flight has transits at Changi Airport and Tokyo.
After arriving in Okayama, you need to go through customs and immigration checks. Then make sure your travel documents are prepared and complete any required arrival declarations.
Weather in Okayama
Okayama has several seasons, such as summer which is usually shorter, hot, scorching, rainy, generally cloudy, and winter is usually very cold, windy. Throughout the year, temperatures in Okayama vary from 2°C to 32°C and rarely go below -1°C or usually above 35°C.
Based on tourism scores, the best time of year to visit Okayama in warm weather is from late May to early June, and from early September to mid October.
Here are the details of weather in Okayama Japan:
- Spring: March to May, with an average temperature of 10°C to 20°C.
- Summer: June to August, with an average temperature of 25°C to 35°C. In summer there are frequent summer rains, the weather can be very humid and hot.
- Fall: September to November, with an average temperature of 15°C to 25°C.
- Winter: December to February, with an average temperature of 2°C to 10°C. This winter is the best time to enjoy onsen (hot springs).
Transportation in Okayama
As a strategic and large city, Okayama has transportation that can be accessed to various regions and abroad easily. Here are several transportation available in Okayama:
- Road transport: Okayama Electric Tramway, Uno Bus, Chutetsu Bus, Ryobi Bus
- Rail transport: Chuggington Train, Marine Liner, JR Seto Ohashi line
- Air travel: International flight
- Ferries
Accommodation in Okayama
1. Crowne Plaza - ANA OKAYAMA
A convenient hotel in Okayama-shi, less than an hour's drive to Okayama Airport (OKJ). Crowne Plaza - ANA OKAYAMA is the closest hotel to Korakuen Park at 1.75 km, and Kanko Stadium at 1.54 km. Super quality service and excellent facilities will make you have a memorable experience when staying at this hotel. Facilities and services include refrigerator, DVD player, desk, mini bar, extra beds available, and breakfast service.
2. Okayama Koraku Hotel
If you are planning an extended stay in Okayama, Okayama Koraku Hotel may be a good choice. The hotel offers a great location, close to Korakuen Park at 1.15 km and Kanko Stadium at 1.79 km. On-site facilities include a restaurant, elevator, safe deposit box, and bicycles for guests to rent for sightseeing around Okayama Castle and Korakuen.
3. Kifu No Sato
Kifu No Sato is a hotel with the closest access to the Contemporary Toy Museum at 228m has a classic atmosphere. There are disabled-accessible rooms and accessible showers.
4. Smile Hotel Okayama
As the name suggests, this hotel will be a great choice for you because of its heart-warming service and affordable price for a night. Facilities at Smile Hotel Okayama include, in-room climate control, towels, electric kettle, slippers.
5. Hotel Granvia Okayama
Hotel Granvia Okayama is a hotel with an infinity pool is a great choice for those who want to enjoy the cool air of Okayama. There is a swimming pool for you to relax alone or with family and friends. On-site facilities include a swimming pool, free WiFi, bar, cafe and lounge, functional rooms, and sauna.
Tourist Destinations in Okayama
1. Okayama Castle
The main icon of Okayama Prefecture which is the main target of tourists. You can see the panoramic view of the castle garden and try various attractions inside, such as making Bizenyaki (Japanese Ceramics) and wearing kimono. In addition, the marvelous view at the top of the castle makes it a great place to visit.
2. Korakuen Garden
Okayama Korakuen Garden is the most beautiful garden considered as one of the top three traditional gardens in Japan, and has been awarded three stars by Michelin Green Guide Japan and designated as a Historical and Cultural Heritage site. It is also a popular hanami spot where you can enjoy a view of the Sawa no Ike pond with three artificial islands in it, a replica of Lake Biwa located in Shiga Prefecture.
3. Kurashiki/Bikan District
This district is a favorite for its unique architectural style. The buildings line the canal, the walls are white and black, and the roofs are tiled. Bikan itself is a spot where ancient and modern life merge with natural scenery and shopping. Travelers call this area the Kurashiki Canal.
Specialty Food in Okayama
1. Hiruzen Yakisoba
This famous product of northern Okayama is made from local chicken and cabbage together with a spicy yet sweet miso sauce and served with yakisoba noodles. It became popular due to the miso sauce originating from the local restaurant "Masuya Shokudo" since the 1950s.
2. Okayama Barazushi
Served using fresh fish from the Seto Sea Hinterland and local seasonal vegetables, then topped with vinegar rice with various colorful fish and vegetables. If you want to eat this Okayama sushi, you can visit stores inside JR Okayama Station such as "Azumasushi". With prices starting from 1,600 yen, you can enjoy fresh and delicious sushi.
3. Ebi Meshi
Ebi Meshi, also called Okayama's soul food, is a shrimp dish. The color of the rice is dark because there is a sauce that is heated with chahan (fried rice), it becomes dark because it uses caramel sauce with soy sauce and seasonings, the taste is lightly spicy and slightly sweet.
Travel Tips in Okayama
For a comfortable trip, there are some tips for you when you want to travel in Okayama. Given the different climate and weather periods, you should always check the weather information before you start traveling. In addition, provide sunscreen to protect your skin from the hot air and weather in Okayama, a folding umbrella should not be left behind in case of sudden rain.
It would be better if you also buy a public transportation card to make traveling easier, such as pasmo, suica, Okayama bus card, and others. Also, always try to bring extra cash just in case.
The excitement in Okayama can always be surprising and you should visit it at least once in your lifetime. Traveling to Okayama is even more fun by booking accommodations at Traveloka. Enjoy the easy and attractive promos here.
