MileHacker Logo
Day Trips from Okayama

Day Trips from Okayama

Okayama Japan Travel Guide

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Kurashiki is a well-preserved Edo-period merchant town, with a scenic canal, white-walled storehouses, and weeping willow trees. This historic quarter offers a peek into Japan's past. The Ohara Museum of Art, Japan's first private museum of Western art, is here.

Transportation: Take the JR Sanyo Line from Okayama Station to Kurashiki Station. Travel Time: About 17 minutes. Cost: Around ¥330 one way. Kurashiki is easily explorable independently. The Bikan Historical Quarter is walkable. Time Required: Half-day to a complete-day.

Quick Facts

  • 17 mins by train from Okayama
  • Approx. ¥330 one way
  • Easy to explore on foot
  • Half-day to full-day excursion

Explore More Destinations

Okayama's excellent transport links connect you to a variety of experiences, from art islands to heritage cities and beautiful natural settings.

Naoshima & Art Islands

These world-renowned islands in the Seto Inland Sea feature contemporary art museums and outdoor art installations. Highlights include Benesse House, Chichu Art Museum, and the iconic Yayoi Kusama "Pumpkin" sculptures.

Logistics

  • Uno Port ferry access
  • Overnight stay recommended
  • Book tickets and accommodation in advance

Hiroshima

A city with immense historical meaning, Hiroshima holds the Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum, and Atomic Bomb Dome, dedicated to commemorating the atomic bombing of 1945 and promoting peace.

Logistics

  • 40 mins by Shinkansen from Okayama
  • Approx. ¥5,600-¥6,000 a single direction
  • Full-day trip frequently paired with Miyajima

Miyajima & Natural Views

Miyajima Island

  • Itsukushima Shrine "floating" gate
  • Friendly wild deer roam freely
  • Hiking up Mount Misen
  • Short ferry ride from Miyajimaguchi

Setonaikai National Park

  • Stunning inland sea vistas
  • Numerous islands for exploration
  • Requires local transport for coastal spots
  • Public transport limited in certain places

Natural Retreats

  • LocationNorth of Okayama City
  • ActivitiesHiking trails, nature observation
  • Seasonal drawStunning autumn foliage
  • AccessCar or bus from JR station
  • LocationKojima area
  • ViewsSeto Inland Sea, Seto Ohashi Bridge
  • Best timeSunset photography
  • AccessLocal bus from Kojima Station

Travel Suggestion

Plan your travel with regional JR Passes for substantial train travel savings, especially for Shinkansen routes. Consult options like the Sanyo-San'in Area Pass for extended trips.

Cultural & Regional Journeys

Explore Okayama's cultural heritage or launch longer explorations across Western Japan.

Bizen Pottery

Explore Inbe district, home to Bizen-yaki, one of Japan's oldest pottery styles. Visit kilns, galleries, or try pottery making.

Fruit Picking

Enjoy seasonal fruit picking in agricultural areas (peaches, grapes). Check with local tourist information offices for current offerings.

Pilgrimage

Visit Kibitsu Shrine and Kibitsuhiko Shrine, important spiritual and historical sites linked to the Momotaro legend.

Shikoku Island

Cross the magnificent Seto Ohashi Bridge to explore Shikoku island. Visit Takamatsu for Ritsurin Garden and Sanuki Udon, or Matsuyama for Dogo Onsen and Matsuyama Castle.

Travel Highlights

  • Ritsurin Garden, Takamatsu
  • Sanuki Udon, Kagawa
  • Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama

Kansai Region

Prolong your stay to Japan's major cultural centers. Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara are easily reachable by Shinkansen from Okayama, offering imperial palaces, temples, and lively city life.

Cultural Hubs

  • Kyoto's temples and gardens
  • Osaka attractions
  • Nara's ancient capital with deer

San'in Coast Exploration

RegionTottori Prefecture
Unique SitesTottori Dunes Of sand
NatureMount Daisen
TravelJR Limited Express trains departing from Okayama
RegionShimane Prefecture
Sacred SitesIzumo Taisha Grand Shrine

Regional Travel Note

  • Consider Japan Rail Passes for discounts on train travel.
  • Regional passes like the Sanyo-San'in Area Pass can be beneficial.
  • Substantial cost reductions for Shinkansen routes.
  • Plan your route to see which pass offers the best value.
  • Always check pass validity and coverage beforehand.

Plan Your Journeys

Okayama is a central point for incredible travel experiences. Discover memorable tours and activities to add to your visit to Japan. Locate and reserve excursions with ease.

Seamless Travel Planning

1

Discover Tours

Explore a vast selection of day trips and activities in Okayama and elsewhere, all bookable through platforms like GetYourGuide.

2

Experience Local Culture

From historical walking tours to culinary classes, dive deep into the unique heritage and local life of the region.

3

Simplify Your Trip

Extended Stay Ideas

  • Renting an apartment offers more space and local living.
  • Convenient base for regional day trips.
  • Explore diverse prefectures at your pace.
  • Getting to local markets and amenities.
  • Experience Japanese daily life.
  • Discover hidden gems not just the main tourist routes.

Strategic Planning

  • Central location for easy access.
  • Efficient transport links to major cities.
  • Connect to Establisho Inland Sea islands.
  • Gateway to Kansai and Shikoku.
  • Variety of landscapes and cultures nearby.
  • Flexibility for varied interests.

Smart Travel Tips

Local Transport

Familiarize yourself with local bus and tram routes for efficient finding your way in thecity. Purchase an IC card for ease.

Seasonal Activities

Check for festivals of the season or activities like fruit picking to match your visit with local happenings.

Language Aids

Download translation apps, especially those with offline features, for communication outside major tourist spots.

Advance Booking Recommendation

Booking popular tours, activities, and particular passes for museums in advance, especially in peak seasons, is highly recommended. This helps secure your spot plus steers clear of disappointment.