Photo of Okayama

About Okayama

Okayama, the capital city of Okayama Prefecture, lies in western Japan's Chügoku region. Famed for its gorgeous Korakuen Garden and magnificent 16th-century castle, it’s a wonderful destination for those interested in discovering historic Japan. Set between the city and the heritage community of Kurashiki, the best places to stay in Okayama offer everything from contemporary style to the traditional ryokan experience.

Beautiful Okayama Castle is a fascinating landmark, as is the 15th-century Kibitsu Jinja, a key Shinto shrine. Stroll around the 300-year-old Okayama Korakuen Garden, or venture into the acclaimed Hayashibara Museum of Art, the Yumeji Art Museum and the Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art. The Inujima Seirensho Museum is also brilliant. To step back into the past, take a guided tour of the Bikan quarter of nearby Kurashiki, where you’ll find traditional ryokans, boutiques and teahouses aplenty.

The city is particularly busy during the annual Momotarō Matsuri Festival, based around an iconic Japanese fable. Book your room at one of the best places to stay in Okayama well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Okayama

For City Style

  • Okayama Koraku Hotel boasts spacious, contemporary accommodation right in the city centre. Rooms have big beds and flat-screen TVs, there's a well-equipped business centre, and an array of shops and restaurants await within walking distance. A stylish yet affordable Okayama city base.

For Traditional Charm

  • Ryokan Kurashiki is tucked within the city's historic merchant's quarter. Perfect for a romantic break, this traditional ryokan has cosy interiors and serves delicious regional kaiseki cuisine. Low-key and owner-managed.
  • Tsurugata Ryokan, on the edge of the river in Kurashiki, is housed in a building which dates back to the Edo period. A charming choice for couples, friends or families, the ryokan has tatami matting, futon bedding and restful garden views.

FOR AN APARTMENT or HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Osaka's Kansai International Airport, and hop aboard a one-hour train to Okayama. Alternatively, fly to Tokyo and catch a domestic flight to Okayama Airport.
  • You may want to drive if you're exploring beyond Okayama itself. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn, when temperatures range between 22 and 30°C degrees. Do expect the school holidays to be especially busy.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Okayama

Best Hotels in Okayama

  • Okayama Koraku Hotel Okayama (Kita-Ku) 211 rooms from $87

    Cycling  -  The hotel's complimentary bicycles are ideal for exploring the city on two wheels, or cycling through parks
    Business meetings  -  A business centre, smaller rooms for solo travellers and a central location make this a top business choice
    Museums  -  Visit the Okayama City Museum, the Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art or the Yumeji Art Museum
    Value chic  -  A great value hotel for business or leisure travellers, set close to key transport links
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Located in the heart of the city, Okayama Koraku Hotel offers spacious and contemporary accommodation. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV and laptops can also be rented at reception. Warm and friendly English-speaking staff. Enjoy a Japanese set menu at lunch and dinner. An excellent value stay! See More

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  • Nagi Kurashiki Hotel & Lounge Okayama Prefecture from $141

    Eco break  -  Eco-conscious guests will appreciate their efforts in sustainability, from water dispensers to eco-friendly amenities
    City Style  -  Chic travellers adore its stylish rooms, infused with local Okayama denim and Setouchi's tranquility
    Romantic Break  -  For couples, its peaceful ambience and intimate concierge service promise a romantic retreat
    Sights nearby  -  Let the travel concierge craft your perfect Setouchi adventure, tailored just for you
    Air conditioningNo pets

    This hotel is your gateway to Setouchi's serene beauty, in the heart of Kurashiki. Interiors showcase local charm, blending Okayama denim with upcycled fabrics for a distinct vibe. From eco-conscious amenities to a personal travel concierge, it's equipped to enrich your journey. See More

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  • Uno Hotel Okayama 56 rooms from $126

    Active Holiday  -  Boat tours and fishing offer the chance to get out on the water or, for the adventurous, there's rock climbing nearby
    Local exploring  -  Conveniently located in Uno Port, this is an ideal spot to explore the islands scattered across Seto Inland Sea
    Views  -  Many rooms have views over the Seto Inland Sea
    Great walks  -  Head for Washuzan Hill where you can see stunning views of Setouchi Ohashi Bridge and admire the beautiful sunsets
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A modern hotel at Uno Port in Tamano. Guest rooms are warm and stylish while bright communal areas pop in shades of seaside blue. There's a restaurant serving French cuisine, plus a shared kitchen. With a terrace overlooking the ocean, choose to chill, or head further afield for some island hopping. See More

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  • Tsurugata Ryokan Okayama (Kurashiki-shi) 13 rooms from $179

    Local exploring  -  A 2-minute walk from Ohara Museum of Art and Kurashiki Ivy Square, well-located for cultural explorations
    Museums  -  Check out the Kurashiki Archaeological Museum, the Ohara Museum of Art and the Yumiko Igarashi Museum
    Great walks  -  The scenic Shinkeien Gardens are lovely for long walks - especially in the spring or autumn
    Total relaxation  -  The ryokan's traditional onsens invite guests to relax with long soaks
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel

    Tsurugata Ryokan is located in Kurashaki Bikan Historical Quarter. This historical building from the Edo period offers traditional accommodation with tatami (woven-straw floors) and futon bedding. Enjoy a relaxing massage and lovely kaiseki cuisine! A quiet and charming stay in a wonderful spot. See More

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  • Ryokan Kurashiki Okayama (Kurashiki-Shi) 8 rooms from $395

    Museums  -  The Kurashiki Archaeological Museum and the Ohara Museum of Art (Japan's first museum of Western art) are excellent
    Great walks  -  Guided walking tours of the Bikan quarter offer a unique insight into historic Japanese culture
    Sights nearby  -  The Kanryuji Temple, a key Buddhist site, is just around the corner and well worth a visit
    Restrictions on children  -  Young children are welcome in the Yu room or the Nishi suite
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParking

    Located in the city's historic merchant's quarter, Ryokan Kurashiki offers spacious and traditional Japanese accommodation with the odd Western-style bed. Let the wonderfully preserved architecture take you back in time and enjoy absolutely splendid cuisine! A peaceful and elegant city stay. See More

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