Okayama Okayama, Japan Travel Guide
Okayama Airport (OKJ) directly serves Okayama Prefecture with domestic and limited international flights. Kansai International Airport (KIX) near Osaka is a major international gateway, approximately 2-3 hours from Okayama by train. Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) is another regional option, 1.5-2 hours away.
Few direct international flights land directly at Okayama Airport (OKJ) from major global hubs outside of East Asia. Most international travelers arrive at larger Japanese centers such as Tokyo Narita (NRT), Tokyo Haneda (HND), or Kansai International Airport (KIX).
The limousine bus service is the most convenient option from Okayama Airport (OKJ) to Okayama Station. Buses depart regularly, taking approximately 30 minutes, costing around ¥780.
From Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Okayama Station, take the JR Haruka Limited Express to Shin-Osaka Station, then transfer to a Sanyo Shinkansen (Nozomi, Sakura, or Kodama). Total travel time is 2-3 hours, ¥7,000-¥9,000.
If you have a Japan Rail Pass or a regional JR pass (e.g., Kansai Wide Area Pass, Sanyo-San'in Area Pass), these may cover parts or all of this route, offering significant savings. Note that the Nozomi Shinkansen is not covered by the standard JR Pass.
Okayama City is not a major port for international sea arrivals. However, Uno Port, south of Okayama City, is an important ferry terminal. It offers frequent ferry services to the renowned art islands of Naoshima, Teshima, and Shodoshima in the Seto Inland Sea.
No significant river transportation options for tourists exist within Okayama City's main waterways. The Asahi River is mainly for scenery and recreation, not for transportation. Therefore, boat tours on the waterway are more for leisure than transportation.
Uno Port has direct access to Uno Station, which connects to Okayama Station via the JR Uno Line. This makes the transfer between train and ferry very convenient for travelers heading out to the islands, allowing for smooth transit from Okayama City.
No specific exit fees or taxes that tourists pay separately upon departure from Japan. A "Sayonara Tax" (International Tourist Tax) of ¥1,000 is included in airline or cruise ship tickets for international departures. This is typically embedded in your ticket price.
Okayama Airport (OKJ) offers basic shops, restaurants, and duty-free purchasing international departures. Okayama Station provides extensive shopping, dining, and waiting areas, making it a comfortable place to wait for your train. You can buy last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a final Japanese meal here.
Keep your passport and boarding pass readily accessible. Ensure all immigration and customs forms are completed accurately before reaching the checkpoint.
Verify luggage weight and size restrictions for your airline. Consider consolidating souvenirs to avoid extra baggage fees. Ensure all liquids are correctly stored in carry-on bags.
Pre-book airport transfers or confirm train schedules. Allow extra time for traffic or surprising delays, especially during peak travel periods.
If you plan to use a Japan Rail Pass, activate it upon arrival at a major JR station (like Okayama Station) or at the airport. This allows immediate use for your transfers and subsequent train travel.
The Japan Rail Pass offers substantial savings for extensive train travel across Japan. Strategic use of the pass enhances your travel budget.
Okayama Station has many shops for last-minute gifts, local specialties, and traditional crafts. Look for Momotaro-themed items.
Ensure all electronic devices are charged before heading to the airport or station. Power outlets are available in some waiting areas.
Exchange any remaining Japanese Yen at the airport or use it for final purchases before departure. ATMs are also available.
Navigating Okayama is a smooth experience, with various options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Embrace the local transport to fully immerse yourself in the city's charm and discover its secluded nooks.
