population: 0.7 million

extension: 789.95 square kilometers

Museums

In Okayama, Japan, you may want to visit the Okayama Prefectural Museum, which features exhibits on local history and culture. Another option is the Okayama Orient Museum, which is dedicated to Middle Eastern and Central Asian art and artifacts. If you are interested in contemporary art, you can also check out the Okayama Art Museum.

If you are looking for similar types of museums in the area, you might consider visiting the Kurashiki City Art Museum or the Kagawa Museum, both located within a reasonable distance from Okayama.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Okayama, Japan include:

1. Barazushi: A type of sushi made with vinegared rice topped with various ingredients, such as cooked and raw fish, vegetables, and eggs.

2. Okayama-style oden: A hot pot dish made with various ingredients, such as tofu, konjac noodles, boiled eggs, and vegetables, simmered in a broth made from dashi (a type of soup stock).

3. Sōmen: Thin noodles made from wheat flour, often served cold in the summertime with a dipping sauce or toppings like grated ginger and green onions.

4. Momiji manju: A sweet pastry filled with red bean paste and shaped like a maple leaf, a popular souvenir item in Okayama.

5. Yakisoba: Fried noodles with various vegetables, meat or seafood, flavored with Worcestershire sauce, and often served at festivals and street stalls.

6. Hiruzen Jersey Milk: Local dairy products from Hiruzen Plateau, known for their rich flavor.

7. Okayama fruits: The region is famous for producing high-quality fruit such as peaches, grapes, and strawberries.

These are just a few examples of some of the most recommended and popular dishes you can try in Okayama according to local people.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Okayama, Japan:

1. Visit Korakuen Garden: This beautiful garden is one of the three great gardens of Japan, and it's a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the scenery.

2. Explore Okayama Castle: This historic castle dates back to the 16th century and offers stunning views of the city from its top floor.

3. Try local cuisine: Okayama is known for its delicious fruits, such as peaches and grapes, as well as its unique style of udon noodles called "sorameshi." Be sure to try these dishes while you're in town!

4. Attend the Momotaro Festival: This annual festival celebrates the famous folktale of Momotaro, a hero who was said to have been born in Okayama. The festival includes parades, fireworks, and other events.

5. Take a bike ride along the Kibi Plain: This scenic area is perfect for cycling, and locals often rent bikes to explore the picturesque countryside.

6. Visit the Okayama Farmers Market: This market sells fresh produce and other goods from local farmers, and it's a great place to experience the local culture and purchase souvenirs.