When in Western Japan...

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.

Kokubunji is a small temple with an impressive 5-storied pagoda, rare in these parts, with carvings of symbolic animals of the Chinese zodiac at the base. Kokubunji is located in Soja, directly north of Kurashiki. Kukubunji is approximately 20 minutes by car from Kurashiki station

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.

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.

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.