We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers: Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.
Free Newsletter

Interested in Kurashiki?

We'll send you updates with the latest deals, reviews and articles for Kurashiki each week.

We remove posts that do not follow our Traveler Lists guidelines.
We reserve the right to remove any lists for any reason.
Report a problem

Explore other Kurashiki resources:

  [ Create a List ]
Maneki-neko's Traveler List
Vote on this Traveler List!

Write a thankful note to show in this member's profile.Compliment Maneki-neko

When in Western Japan...

Ask this member a question. Maneki-neko Ex-pat, 20 years living here!
May 21, 2006
4.0 of 5 stars based on 3 votes
If you're visiting western Japan, yuo will undoubtedly go to Hiroshima or Nagasaki...How about stopping at the charming town of Kurashiki?
  • Explore locations featured in this Traveler List: Kurashiki
  • Category: Walking tour
  • Traveler type: Culture, Sightseeing, Shopping, Never been before, Repeat visitors
  • Appeals to: Couples/romantics, Honeymooners, Singles, Families with small children, Families with teenagers, Large groups, Seniors, Students, Budget travelers, Tourists
  • Seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Tags: Japan, Kurashiki, Art, Gardens, Amusement, Shopping, Castle, Sightseeing
1. The Bikan-chiku
This is the historical part of the city of Kurashiki (population 470,000). The Bikan-chiku is a 5-minute walk from Kurashiki station. Kurashiki has many rice granaries lining the canal which runs through the Bikan area, and the canal was used in the Edo era. Today, it is lined with weeping willows and the granaries are still well-preserved. There are many traditional buildings in and around the narrow streets off the main street by the canal. You can visit one of the many shops selling handicrafts or souvenirs, or even drop into a cafe for a cup of coffee or a restaurant for a bowl of noodles.
2. Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park, Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture
This is an exact copy of the Tivoli Park in Copenhagen, Denmark. You can stroll through the park and enjoy the flowers, or grab a draft beer adn sit outside on "Old Copenhagen" and enjoy the scenery. In the summer is a large-scale beer garden with nightly musical attractions and fireworks.
3. Ohara Museum of Art
Ohara Museum of Art, Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture
The Ohara Museum houses an outstanding collection of western art- Rodin, Buffet, El Greco, Monet, etc. Behind the museum is a seperate section with works by famous Japanese woodblock artist Munagata Shiko.
4. Aeon Kurashiki Shopping Mall
The largest shopping mall in the Okayama area. Has a great selection of clothing stores, a sporting goods store, 100-yen shop, numerous restaurants (even a Starbucks!) and a 5-screen movie theater. Shuttle bus service from Kurashiki station.
5. Korakuen Park and Okayama Castle
15 minutes away by local train and you can visit Korakuen Park, which is noted as being one of the three most famous traditional Japanese gardens. Many seasonal events are held such as moon-viewing during the fall and cherry blossom viewing in the spring. On New Year's Day, admission is free, and they release the giant cranes to stretch their wings and fly around, attracting photographers from all over the country. Nearby is Okayama Castle, also known as "Karasu-jo" ("Crow Castle") as its walls are black and it is somewhat imposing.
Explore locations featured in this Traveler List: Kurashiki