Weird & Unusual Attractions in Okayama, Okayama, Japan
1. Okunoshima Island (Rabbit Island)
An island filled with over 1000 adorable rabbits roaming freely. A unique and peaceful escape from city life.
- Pet-friendly: Visitors are allowed to interact with and feed the friendly rabbits.
- Nature Retreat: A serene, relaxing environment away from the hustle and bustle of cities.
- Unique Experience: An opportunity to be surrounded by hundreds of adorable rabbits in a beautiful setting.
2. Kibiccho Ura-Hakusan Shrine
A shrine dedicated to fox spirits (kitsune) with a famous red torii gate submerged in water.
- Fox Spirit Sanctuary: A unique shrine dedicated to the reverence of fox spirits.
- Submerged Torii Gate: An uncommon sight that adds a mysterious and picturesque charm.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by a beautiful, serene forest and lake.
3. Kurashiki Ivy Square (Kurashiki Heikan-chō)
A historic district with white-walled buildings covered in ivy, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.
- Historic District: Preserves the atmosphere of the Edo Period (1603–1868).
- Ivy-covered Buildings: A unique, picturesque sight that changes with each season.
- Canal Town: Features charming canals and bridges that add to its beauty.
4. Tsuta no Ayu Fish Museum (Tsutayu Museum)
A museum dedicated to the Ayu fish, showcasing various exhibits and a giant Ayu fish replica.
- Fish-focused Museum: Dedicated to educating visitors about the Ayu fish and its significance.
- Giant Fish Replica: A massive, awe-inspiring statue of an Ayu fish.
- Interactive Exhibits: Allows visitors to learn about the Ayu fish through interactive displays.
5. Kurashiki Open-Air Architectural Museum
A museum showcasing traditional architectural styles in a beautiful outdoor setting.
- Architectural Wonders: Displaying various examples of traditional Japanese architecture.
- Open-Air Setting: Offers a unique, tranquil experience in a serene outdoor environment.
- Historical Insights: Provides visitors with a deeper understanding of Japanese architectural history.
6. Kibitsu Shrine Torii Gate Floating on Water
A famous torii gate that appears to float on the surface of the lake during high tide.
- Floating Torii Gate: An unusual and awe-inspiring sight.
- Kibitsu Shrine Connection: Located within the Kibitsu Shrine grounds.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush forests.
7. Okayama Korakuen Garden's Tea Pot Hill
A hill sculpted to resemble a giant tea pot within the beautiful Okayama Korakuen Garden.
- Giant Teapot Sculpture: A unique and eye-catching sight within the garden.
- Beautiful Garden Setting: Located in the stunning Okayama Korakuen Garden.
- Historical Significance: Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site (Japanese Classic Gardens).
8. Yurindo Upside-Down House
A house built to appear upside down, creating an illusion of defying gravity.
- Upside-Down Architecture: An unusual and fascinating architectural feat.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can enter the house and experience the upside-down effect.
- Picturesque Setting: Located within a beautiful garden setting.
9. Kurashiki Bettei Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of sake brewing in the region.
- Sake Brewing History: Showcases the rich history and tradition of sake brewing.
- Interactive Exhibits: Allows visitors to learn about the sake-making process through interactive displays.
- Tasting Opportunities: Offers opportunities to taste various sake varieties.
10. Kurashiki Ivy Square Illumination
The illuminated ivy-covered buildings of Kurashiki Ivy Square during winter evenings.
- Illuminated Architecture: Beautifully lit up ivy-covered buildings create a magical atmosphere.
- Winter Attraction: A unique winter experience not found during other seasons.
- Romantic Setting: An ideal location for a romantic evening stroll.
11. Kibitsu Shrine's Five-Storied Pagoda
A five-storied pagoda within the Kibitsu Shrine that was rebuilt in 1972.
- Historic Pagoda: A historical structure dating back to the Heian Period (794–1185).
- Kibitsu Shrine Connection: Located within the Kibitsu Shrine grounds.
- Traditional Architecture: An example of traditional Japanese architecture.
12. Kurashiki's Ichikawa Bridge
A historic wooden bridge crossing over the Kurashiki Canal.
- Historic Bridge: Dates back to the Edo Period (1603–1868).
- Canal Crossing: Provides a peaceful and picturesque scene over the Kurashiki Canal.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers excellent photo opportunities for visitors.
13. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
A historic district with white-walled buildings and beautiful canals.
- Historic District: Preserves the atmosphere of the Edo Period (1603–1868).
- Canal Town: Features charming canals and bridges that add to its beauty.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful, tranquil natural scenery.
14. Kurashiki's Ohara Museum of Art
A museum showcasing Western and Japanese artworks, including paintings by Monet.
- Western & Japanese Art: Offers a unique blend of Western and Japanese artworks.
- Notable Artists: Features works by renowned artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
- Peaceful Setting: Located within a tranquil, scenic garden setting.
15. Kurashiki's Willow-shaped Bridge (Shimotei-bashi)
A unique willow-shaped bridge over the Kurashiki Canal.
- Willow-shaped Design: An uncommon and visually appealing design.
- Canal Crossing: Provides a peaceful and picturesque scene over the Kurashiki Canal.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers excellent photo opportunities for visitors.