Kurashiki - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Kurashiki

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kurashiki, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kurashiki and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kurashiki, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Kurashiki for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kurashiki

Kurashiki is a city located in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and historical buildings, including the Bikan Historical Quarter. The city is also home to the Ohara Museum of Art, which contains a large collection of Western artwork, as well as the Japan Rural Toy Museum, featuring traditional Japanese toys. Kurashiki is a popular destination for tourists and is easily accessible by train or bus from major cities like Osaka and Hiroshima.

What to visit in Kurashiki

1. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter - This beautiful historical district has been well-preserved and showcases traditional architecture from the Edo period. Visitors can walk along charming canals, view museums, and explore traditional Japanese stores and restaurants.
2. Ohara Museum of Art - Founded in 1930, Ohara Museum of Art is Japan's first Western Art Museum and currently has over 3,000 pieces of Western art. Visitors can see works by artists such as Matisse, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Renoir.
3. Kurashiki Ivy Square - This unique shopping mall once was a spinning mill and now features ivy-covered brick buildings. It's a great place to browse for souvenirs, enjoy a cup of coffee or dine in one of its fashionable restaurants.
4. Kurashiki Municipal Archaeological Museum - The museum presents artifacts from the ancient Kibi Kingdom in the Kurashiki area, including tombs, ceramics, and bronze items. Some of these items found date back to the 4th century.
5. Kanryu-ji Temple - Located close to the heart of Kurashiki, Kanryu-ji is a centuries-old Buddhist temple with a rich history. Visitors can explore the temple buildings, gardens, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
6. Mount Washu - For outdoor enthusiasts, Mount Washu provides a challenging hiking experience and stunning views. The mountain is known for its beautiful seasonal foliage, particularly during autumn.
7. Momotaro Karakuri Museum - This one-of-a-kind museum showcases traditional Japanese automata, known as karakuri dolls, which were created in the Edo period. Visitors can learn about the history of these dolls and observe them in action.
8. Kurashiki City Art Museum - Housed in a spacious modern building, this art museum focuses on the works of artists from the Kurashiki area and contemporary artists. It's a great place to see the artistic side of Kurashiki.
Overall, Kurashiki offers a mix of both traditional and modern experiences, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking for a taste of Japan's culture and history.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kurashiki.

When to go on holiday to Kurashiki

The best time to visit Kurashiki is from March to May and from September to November, during the spring and autumn seasons. The weather is cool and pleasant during these times, with mild temperatures and low humidity levels which are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, Kurashiki is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn foliage, making it a great time to visit for nature enthusiasts. However, it's worth noting that these seasons are also popular with tourists, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kurashiki

Kurashiki is located in the Okayama Prefecture of Japan and can be accessed by several modes of transportation: By Plane: The nearest airport to Kurashiki is the Okayama Airport, which is about a 40-minute drive away from the city. There are domestic flights available to Okayama Airport from major Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
By Train: Kurashiki is located on the Sanyo Shinkansen Line, and it takes about 3 hours to travel from Tokyo to Kurashiki on the bullet train. You can take the bullet train from Shin-Osaka Station, which is about 50 minutes away from Kurashiki by train. Alternatively, you can take local trains from Okayama Station, which is about 15 minutes away from Kurashiki by train.
By Bus: There are direct buses available from major cities such as Osaka and Hiroshima to Kurashiki.
By Car: You can also reach Kurashiki by car, and the journey takes about 4 hours from Tokyo, 2 hours from Osaka, and 1 hour from Hiroshima.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kurashiki, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kurashiki

Here are some typical foods you can try in Kurashiki, Japan: 1. Okayama-style sushi: This type of sushi from the Okayama Prefecture is made with vinegared rice and various toppings including raw fish, cooked fish, vegetables, and egg.
2. Barazushi: This is a traditional dish of Kurashiki made from vinegared rice mixed with various toppings such as vegetables, seafood, and egg.
3. Tsukemen: This is a type of ramen where the noodles are served separate from the broth, allowing you to dip them into the broth before eating. You can find various flavors of broth to dip the noodles in such as soy sauce, miso, and tonkotsu.
4. So-men: This is a type of Japanese noodle dish that is usually served cold with a light dashi broth. So-men noodles are thinner than other types of noodles and are made from wheat flour.
5. Kibi dango: These are small rice cakes made from Kibi wheat flour, which is a local specialty. The cakes are slightly sweet and chewy, served with kinako soybean powder and sweet syrup.
6. Momiji tempura: This is a type of tempura where maple leaf-shaped fish paste is deep-fried until crispy. It is often served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce. 7. Seto-yaki: This is a grilled seafood dish that uses locally sourced fish, typically served with a soy sauce-based sauce. I hope this helps you plan your food adventures in Kurashiki!
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Kurashiki an expensive destination for tourists?

Kurashiki is a popular tourist destination in Japan known for its historic district, museums, and traditional architecture. However, it may be considered slightly expensive compared to other destinations in Japan. Accommodation and food costs in Kurashiki can be higher than other cities in Japan. However, there are many budget-friendly options available for tourists such as guesthouses, hostels, and affordable dining options. It ultimately depends on your travel budget and itinerary.

Where to find accomodation in Kurashiki

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Kurashiki, Japan are around the Bikan Historical Quarter, the Kurashiki Station area, and the Mizushima area. These areas offer easy access to the city's main attractions and are well-connected to public transportation. The Bikan Historical Quarter is particularly popular among tourists as it boasts beautifully preserved traditional buildings and charming canals. The Kurashiki Station area is also well-connected via train and bus, providing easy access to other parts of the city and nearby attractions. The Mizushima area, on the other hand, is a more industrial part of town that's perfect if you're interested in visiting the nearby Mizushima Industrial Park or Mitsui Outlet Park.
You can check hotel prices at Kurashiki here:
Booking.com

Is Kurashiki a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kurashiki is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Japan, in general, has a low crime rate and high level of safety, and Kurashiki is no exception. However, as with any destination, it's always important to stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and take necessary precautions to ensure your own safety.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kurashiki.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kurashiki the most?

Kurashiki is a charming and historical Japanese city that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. The city offers a combination of ancient architecture and modern amenities that can appeal to those who seek peacefulness and serenity in their travels. Couples would love exploring the canal area's picturesque scenery, especially during cherry blossom season and enjoying romantic canal boat rides. Young people will enjoy fun activities like shopping in the Bikan historical district, visiting the Chuo Park Sports Center, and trying out the local food. Families will enjoy learning about Japan's history at the Kurashiki Archaeological Museum, walking along the canals, visiting the Ohara Museum of Art for beautiful art collections and the Ivy Square mall for shopping and dining. Overall, Kurashiki is a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers interested in exploring traditional Japanese culture.

How to get around Kurashiki

In Kurashiki, Japan, one can move around by using various modes of transportation such as trains, buses, taxis, and rental bikes. The Kurashiki City Loop Bus is particularly useful for sightseeing as it stops at major tourist attractions including the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, Ohara Museum of Art, and the Kojima Jeans Street. The city also has a well-connected train network that connects it to other cities in Japan. Taxis are also readily available but can be more expensive compared to public transportation. Additionally, rental bikes can be an enjoyable and eco-friendly way of exploring Kurashiki.

What to see around Kurashiki

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kurashiki, Japan: 1. Okayama: Okayama is famous for its beautiful Korakuen Garden, which is considered one of the best traditional Japanese gardens in the country. The Okayama Castle and the Okayama Orient Museum are also worth visiting.
2. Mount Washu: Mount Washu is a beautiful mountain in the Chugoku region, famous for its stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. Its hiking trails offer breathtaking scenery that is sure to soothe your soul.
3. Bizen: Bizen is a small town near Kurashiki that is famous for its Bizen-yaki pottery. You can visit the traditional kilns and pottery workshops to observe the process of creating fine pottery.
4. Tamatsukuri Onsen: Tamatsukuri Onsen is a beautiful hot spring resort located near Kurashiki. It offers a relaxing atmosphere with natural hot springs, beautiful scenery, and great cuisine.
5. Miyajima Island: Miyajima Island is a short train ride away from Kurashiki and is famous for its iconic floating Torii gate, one of the most famous landmarks of Japan. The island also has a rich history and culture, with many temples and shrines to explore, as well as excellent hiking trails.
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