Where to Stay in Okayama & Kurashiki: Choosing the Right Area

A terminal served by the Sanyo Shinkansen and limited expresses to Shikoku and the San'in region, with hotels and shopping complexes around the station. Streetcars run toward Okayama Korakuen and Okayama Castle, and JR trains make Kurashiki easy to reach.

Best for

• ✓Travelers getting around by shinkansen
• ✓Those also heading to Shikoku or San'in
• ✓Families who want to keep travel to a minimum

Nearest stations

🚉 JR Okayama Station; Okayama Electric Tramway Okayama-ekimae stop

An area close to Okayama Castle and Okayama Korakuen, with shopping streets such as the Omotecho arcade and many restaurants. You can enjoy walks along the Asahi River and the atmosphere of the old castle town.

Best for

• ✓Those who want to take their time at Okayama Korakuen and Okayama Castle
• ✓Anyone who wants to dine and shop in the shopping arcades

Keep in mind

Getting to Okayama Station requires a streetcar or bus.

Nearest stations

🚉 Okayama Electric Tramway Shiroshita and Kencho-dori stops

The area around Kurashiki Station on the JR Sanyo Line and Hakubi Line, with hotels and a large shopping complex in front of the station. The Bikan Historical Quarter is within walking distance, and buses from Okayama Airport arrive here.

Best for

• ✓Those basing themselves in Kurashiki and traveling back and forth to Okayama
• ✓Families who also want to go shopping

Nearest stations

🚉 JR Kurashiki Station; Mizushima Rinkai Railway Kurashikishi Station

A historic townscape where white-walled merchant storehouses and the Ohara Museum of Art line the Kurashiki River, with lodgings in renovated townhouses and old homes. You can stroll along the river in the evening after daytime visitors have left, and at night when the lanterns are lit.

Best for

• ✓Those who want to stay in a historic streetscape
• ✓Travelers who prefer a relaxed stay
• ✓Anyone who wants to visit art museums

Keep in mind

Vehicle access within the quarter is restricted, so check with your lodging in advance about how to bring in your luggage.

Nearest stations

🚉 JR Kurashiki Station