Situated in Japan’s Chūgoku region, Okayama Prefecture boasts mostly sunny days and minimal rain, hence its title “Kingdom of Sunshine.” Popular attractions in the prefecture include the renowned Japanese Three Great Gardens—Korakuen Garden in Okayama, the historic Okayama Castle, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (a preserved important architectural area), Kurashiki (known as the jeans mecca), and the Seto Ohashi Bridge—all must-visit spots in Okayama.

To better understand the travel needs of Taiwanese visitors and to introduce more travel and photography enthusiasts to the beauty of Okayama, the prefecture has partnered with a leading domestic website to host the “Momotaro’s Hometown: Okayama Travel & Photography Contest” (event website: https://contest.bhuntr.com/tw/okayamaphoto-2015). Ten selected travel planners and photography enthusiasts will be invited to Okayama for an on-site shooting trip during the first phase. In the second phase, after the submission and evaluation of their works, the top three participants who best capture the charm of Okayama will receive additional prizes.

Besides famous sites like Korakuen Garden and the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, Okayama offers other highlights such as the Kibitsu Shrine—the origin of the Momotaro legend; the relaxing Yubara Onsen hot spring resort; and Tsuyama Castle & Tsuruyama Park, one of Japan’s top cherry blossom viewing spots. Traveling from Okayama to Osaka takes just about 40 minutes by Shinkansen, and around 35 minutes to Hiroshima, making the convenient transportation a big plus for travelers.

Through this event, we hope that travel and photography lovers can not only enjoy their trips but also capture wonderful photos. We also aim to help more people in Taiwan learn about the charm of Okayama through participants’ photos. Everyone is welcome to join this exciting contest!!

“Momotaro’s Hometown: Okayama Travel Plan & Photography Contest”