By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, reported by Chen Guanxin
Though Okayama, Japan’s summer fruit kingdom, may not be as well-known as Tokyo, Osaka, or Hokkaido, the story of Momotaro—who fought demons with his dog, monkey, and pheasant—is sure to bring back childhood memories. And the home of Momotaro is none other than Okayama itself. The largest summer festival in Okayama—the Momotaro Festival—will be held on August 3 and 4 along the Asahi River in Okayama. The event will feature a stunning fireworks display and dance performances with performers wearing demon face paint. At this annual demon-themed festival that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, tourists can also get their faces painted like demons.
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The highlight of Okayama’s biggest summer festival, the Momotaro Festival, is the sight of beautiful girls dancing in the streets with demon-patterned face paint. (Photo provided by Okayama City Convention & Visitors Bureau)
While visiting Okayama for the Momotaro Festival, don’t miss the local Momotaro Museum. Located in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, this museum is based on the story of Momotaro. It not only offers plenty of information but also features many fun interactive exhibits that challenge everyday perceptions. One unique attraction is an adventure cave inspired by the Demon Island from the story, resembling a haunted house. Walking through the dark, eerie cave, you never know when a demon might leap out—it’s thrilling and exciting.
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This year’s fireworks display on the evening of August 3 will be the star of Okayama’s summer nights. (Photo provided by Okayama City Convention & Visitors Bureau)
In the colorful summer nights, besides the grand Momotaro Festival, Korakuen Garden—one of Japan’s three most famous gardens—will also host a two-week “Fantasy Garden” nighttime event from August 2 to 18. During the event, Korakuen will be open in the evenings from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with the garden lights turned on starting at 7:30 PM. In addition to the illumination, there will also be garden concerts and special food offerings.
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The summer-exclusive “Fantasy Garden” allows visitors to experience the beauty of Korakuen at night. (Photo provided by Okayama City Convention & Visitors Bureau)
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Okayama Prefecture is known as a fruit kingdom, where you can enjoy freshly picked fruit from summer through autumn. The area also has a fruit street, where you can savor various limited-time fruit sundaes in the summer. (Photo provided by Mook Editorial Department)