EZTrip.com International Destination Guide and Hotel Listings

Okayama, with its trams and riverside walks, is a transport hub for trips out to surrounding attractions. The top draw is Kurashiki , just fifteen minutes west of the city, with its well-preserved enclave of picturesque old merchant houses and canals. From Kurashiki you can head inland to Takahashi to discover Japan's highest castle, Bitchu Matsuyama , looking down from its mountain-top over a town of old temples. For a spectacular view of both the Inland Sea and the Seto-Ohashi bridge, aim for Washu-zan on the southern tip of the prefecture. To discover fragments of the area's ancient history, consider pedalling along the Kibi bicycle route , west of the city, past fifth-century burial mounds and rustic temples and shrines. And even more off-the-beaten-track sights will be within your reach if you opt to stay at one of the prefecture's International Villas , self-catering accommodation in scenic locations specially reserved for foreign visitors.