Okayama Prefecture, located in southeastern Chugoku region, is beloved as "Land of Sunshine" blessed with warm Seto Inland Sea climate. While having no World Heritage sites, it houses Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, representing beautiful prefecture where rich nature harmonizes with historical culture.

Korakuen Garden represents Edo period's premier stroll-style daimyo garden, with construction begun in 1687 by Okayama domain lord Ikeda Tsunamasa through retainer Tsuda Nagatada, completed in 1700. The 13-hectare vast site features lawns, ponds, artificial hills, and teahouses connected by garden paths and waterways, enabling visitors to enjoy changing scenery while walking. The approximately 640-meter Kyokusui stream circulates throughout grounds, creating spectacular views harmonizing seasonal flowers with borrowed scenery of Okayama Castle.

Okayama Castle, hirayama castle built in 1597 by Ukita Hideie under Toyotomi Hideyoshi's guidance, is nicknamed "Crow Castle" for its black lacquer exterior. Featuring rare unequal pentagonal 3-story 6-floor composite watchtower-style keep, it became home to Kobayakawa Hideaki after Battle of Sekigahara, later ruled by Ikeda family. Current keep is reconstructed but evokes Edo period majesty through beautiful castle complex.

Kibitsu Shrine, ancient shrine associated with Momotaro legend, features 16th-century main hall and worship hall designated as national treasures for unique "Kibitsu-zukuri" architectural style. Ancient burial mounds and historic sites scattered throughout Kibi Plateau enable visitors to experience ancient Kibi Kingdom historical romance.

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter preserves Edo period merchant town atmosphere through beautiful streetscapes of white-walled warehouse buildings and willow-lined canals, with Ohara Museum displaying Western masterpieces. Kojima district is known as Japanese denim birthplace.

Okayama Prefecture, nationally famous as "Fruit Kingdom," leads Japan in white peach and Muscat of Alexandria production. White peaches, carefully cultivated with individual fruit bagging, feature juicy, smooth texture with elegant sweetness. Muscat, called "Queen of Fruits," attracts with beautiful transparent green color and rich aroma as luxury fruit.

Local confections prominently feature "kibi-dango" associated with Momotaro legend, beloved for chewy texture and refined sweetness. "Oteman-ju" represents over 150-year historical confection featuring refined azuki bean paste wrapped in thin skin for rustic flavors.

Bizen-yaki, traditional craft with over 1,000 years history, represents pottery treasured for tea utensils and artworks utilizing natural soil textures without glazing. Seto Inland Sea small fish "mamakari" is enjoyed pickled or simmered, named for being so delicious that families would borrow "mama" (rice) from neighbors when used as side dish.