Among the attractions of Okayama, only Kōrakuen is widely known, and the rather ordinary station area doesn't seem to promise much to visitors. But one key unlocks the city's unique charm: Momotarō, the Peach Boy.
According to the Japanese fairytale, an old, childless couple found a peach floating down the river, and inside they found a baby boy. They duly adopted him and named him Momotarō (桃太郎), or (quite literally) "Peach Boy". As he grew, he began to feel greatly indebted to the couple that raised him, and when he was finally grown, he announced that he would be going on a journey to Onigashima (Demon Island) to fight the demons that had been causing trouble in the nearby villages. The old woman prepared kibi-dango for him to take on his journey and bid him farewell.
On his way to the island, he befriended a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant by giving them each a piece of the kibi-dango. With their help, he defeated the demons; Momotarō took the demons' treasures back home and gave them to the old couple to thank them for all the things they'd done for him throughout the years. The couple rejoiced that he was back safely, and they all lived happily ever after.
Residents claim that Okayama was the original setting of the fairytale, and that it was based on the legend of Prince Kibitsuhiko's battle against the ogre Ura, who is said to have lived in Kino-jo (Demon's Castle) in the area around Soja. Today, Okayama is a busy city of some 700,000 people, and its main street is named Momotarō-Odōri in the Peach Boy's honor; you'll find statues from the tale along the way. Although the Culture Zone can easily fill a full day, try to set aside time for cycling the Kibi Plain - it's another fun way to explore the history of this intriguing area.
Okayama, a hidden gem in Japan's Chūgoku region, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a blend of tradition and modernity. Renowned as the "Land of Sunshine," this charming city offers more than just good weather. Start your journey at **Korakuen Garden**, a breathtaking example of Edo-period landscaping, featuring serene ponds, lush greenery, and views of the striking **Okayama Castle**, also known as "Crow Castle."
Dive into the local legend of **Momotaro**, the heroic Peach Boy, which permeates the city's culture, from statues to festivals. Adventure seekers can cycle along the **Kibi Plain**, a scenic route that winds through rice fields, shrines, and ancient burial mounds. Food lovers will delight in Okayama's famous **white peaches**, **muscat grapes**, and fresh seafood, best enjoyed in local markets or charming eateries.
Nearby attractions include the **historic Kurashiki Bikan District**, with its preserved Edo-era canals and warehouses, and **Naoshima Island**, a paradise for art enthusiasts. Whether you're exploring history, indulging in seasonal delicacies, or enjoying the vibrant landscapes, Okayama invites you to uncover its unique and welcoming spirit.
