"Land of Eternal Sunshine" Scenery: So Beautiful You Could Take Photos for Four Days and Three Nights Without Running Out of Material

Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Okayama Prefecture, the birthplace of Japan’s Momotarō (Peach Boy) legend, is known as the "Kingdom of Sunny Weather" due to its mostly sunny and rain-free climate year-round. Thanks to its unique geography, the fruits produced here are abundant and exceptionally sweet, earning it the additional title of the "Fruit Kingdom." Last year, the launch of direct flights from Taiwan to Okayama Airport by a low-cost carrier sparked a travel trend among Taiwanese visitors. With summer now in full swing, the scenic beauty here is so stunning that you could take photos for four days and three nights and still not capture it all.

Located just about 40 minutes by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Osaka, Okayama Prefecture is not only home to Kibitsu Shrine, the origin site of the Momotarō legend, but also boasts popular attractions such as Korakuen Garden, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, the laid-back and relaxing Yubara Onsen hot spring town, and Tsuyama Castle’s Tsuruyama Park, which is listed among Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots.

Moreover, Okayama Prefecture is famous as the "Fruit Kingdom," producing nationally renowned fruits such as Okayama white peaches and Muscat grapes. Melons, strawberries, pears, and more—delicious seasonal fruits are available year-round for visitors to enjoy.

To help more travel and photography enthusiasts discover the beauty of Okayama, the third edition of the "Hometown of Momotarō: Okayama Travel & Photography Competition" has officially kicked off. Photographers from all walks of life are invited to join this free trip to Okayama for a 4-day, 3-night photo shoot to capture the most beautiful summer scenery of the region.