A place blessed with a mild climate, where nature and history coexist
Okayama Prefecture is located in the Chugoku region and the prefectural capital is Okayama City. It is bordered by Hyogo Prefecture to the east and Hiroshima Prefecture to the west. The northern part of the prefecture is mountainous with many hot springs, while the southern part meets the Seto Inland Sea with its many islands.
Okayama Korakuen Garden, a pristine garden of the Edo period, is one of the three major gardens of Japan and a world-class cultural property. The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, with its beautiful white walls, is also known as one of the best sightseeing spots in the prefecture, and visitors can enjoy walking around the town and experiencing the atmosphere of the Edo period. The mild climate also produces many fruits, with peaches, muscats, and pione (a type of grape) boasting the highest quality and production in Japan.
Bizen-yaki (Pottery)
Bizen-yaki is produced in the Ibe area of Bizen City. Because the ceramics are made without glaze, no two pieces are alike. It is characterized by a rustic and warm finish that retains the texture of the clay.
Katsuyama-takezaiku (Bamboo Crafts)
Katsuyama-takezaiku are made in the Maniwa City area. They are woven from green bamboo using minimal processing, then as they are used, gradually change color over time into a pale amber.
Matsuri-zushi
Matsuri-zushi is made for festivals, celebrations and for entertaining guests. It is a gorgeous chirashi-zushi made using vegetables and seafood. Ingredients vary with the season, and the method of preparation varies depending on region or household.
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