Last updated on October 18th, 2024
Planning your trip and looking for where to stay in Okayama? Here are the best places to stay in Okayama, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels!
Okayama is one of Japan’s best-kept secrets. This charming city is well-known among locals for its breathtaking scenery, well-preserved history, and delicious local cuisine. Some popular attractions in Okayama are Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden, Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, and many more.
While you can visit Okayama as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, we recommend that you stay for a full day or more than two days. The city is also a great stopover to visit Hiroshima if you are coming from Osaka.
Below we’ll list some of the best hotels and accommodations to stay in Okayama.
Where To Stay in Okayama
If you’re planning a trip to Okayama, here are some recommended areas for where to stay in Okayama:
- Okayama Station – The most convenient area to stay for first-time visitors to Okayama City. A great range of accommodations are available with different price ranges and budget options.
- Stay nearby Okayama Castle – A Fantastic location to stay and within easy walking distance of the main tourist attractions.
- Kurashiki Station – Close to the train station and within walking distance of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.
- Kurashiki Historical Area – Great place to stay for the most laid-back and relaxing destination.
Okayama Station
Okayama Station is the most convenient area to stay for first-time visitors to the city. It is the main transportation hub and well-connected to all the other parts of the city using trams (streetcars).
Once you arrive in Okayama via Shinkansen, you can just drop in the luggage, and then start exploring the city. The Okayama Castle and one of Japan’s top 3 gardens are located within walking distance from the station. Plenty of restaurants and eateries can be easily found near Okayama Station.
Popular Hotels nearby Okayama Station
High-Range: Mitsui Garden Hotel Okayama is a well-priced hotel conveniently located near Okayama Station with a 3-minute walk. Rooms are modern and large by Japanese standards. Guests can also enjoy the public bath looking out on a Japanese garden.
High-Range: Hotel Granvia Okayama is really convenient being directly connected with the JR Okayama Station. It is a great place to stay within walking distance of Korakuen gardens and hop on the train to explore Kurashiki or the nearby area. The rooms are spacious with a great view of the city.
High-Range: ANA Crowne Plaza Okayama is conveniently located opposite the station with a 2-minute walk from West Exit. The rooms are spacious, and wide, and come with extra-long beds. Staff are excellent and helpful with foreign language support.
Mid-Range: Hotel Abest Grande Okayama offers 3-star accommodation in Okayama and features a fitness center, a shared lounge, and a bar. The property is close to Okayama Station and has the latest facilities including a large public bath. Besides, the hotel offers cabins (small rooms) at a cheap price which is great for solo travelers. An excellent value stay!
Budget: Kamp Houkan-cho Backpackers Inn is conveniently located within a 10 10-minute walk from the Okayama Station, which makes it convenient for sightseeing. The hostel is decorated with a mix of surfer lodge and industrial cafe/record store atmosphere. Simple practical rooms and a bunk bed for a budget stay in Okayama.
Stay nearby Okayama Castle
Another great place to stay in Okayama would be to stay near Okayama Castle.
The neighborhood is very central. It’s a fantastic location to stay and within easy walking distance of the main tourist attractions. The excellent tram system is well-connected in the neighborhood and very easy to navigate and affordable. A great place for first-time visitors and families.
Popular Hotels nearby Okayama Castle
Mid-Range: Hotel Excel Okayama offers contemporary, air-conditioned rooms for guests who looking for a great stay in Okayama. The location is excellent and proximity to Okayama Castle and easy walking to the beautiful Korakuen garden. Guests can enjoy the beautiful view when staying here.
Mid-Budget: The OneFive Okayama is a budget-friendly 3-star hotel located near the Okayama Castle area. The hotel offers spacious rooms with a simple modern style. Good value for money.
Kurashiki
Kurashiki is also another popular option when looking for where to stay on your trip to Okayama. Most Kurashiki accommodations are close to the historical area and near the train station.
Here are a few Kurashiki accommodation recommendations.
Popular Hotels to Stay in Kurashiki Station
Mid-Range: Royal Park Hotel Kurashiki is a well-maintained hotel with good facilities. It offers modern, spacious, and comfortable rooms for guests who visit Kurasahiki. The location is perfect, close to the Kurashiki Station and the historical quarter.
Mid-Range: APA Hotel Kurashiki Ekimae is a popular choice when travelers looking for where to stay. The location is superb, right next to the station and many food options nearby. Rooms are affordable and staff are friendly.
Popular Hotels to Stay in Kurashiki Historical Area
For the most laid-back and relaxing destination, staying at Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is highly recommended. There are some unique houses along the canal. It is best to stay overnight in the historical quarter and you can enjoy the scenery in the daytime and also during the sunset.
Top-Rate: Kurashiki Ivy Square is a historical building that was originally built as a red-brick cotton mill in 1889. This family-friendly hotel is located at the edge of the Bikan Historical Quarter. The rooms are spacious and guests can enjoy the onsite public bath which is a great plus. Kurashiki Ivy Square is one of the top-rated luxurious places to stay in Okayama.
High-Range: Ryori Ryokan Tsurugata – If you are looking for a hotel with the feel of a traditional Japanese inn, Tsurugata Ryokan is an alternative. Located on the edge of the Kurashiki River, the ryokan is housed in a building that dates back to the Edo period. Enjoy your stay in tatami matting, futon bedding, and soaking into the hot spring for relaxing.
High-Range: Dormy Inn Kurashiki is a popular Japanese chain hotel with onsen facilities. Guests can soak in the beautiful Japanese-style onsen on the top floor and even outdoor bath when staying in the Dormy Inn Kurashiki. The rooms aren’t large but they are clean and well-maintained.
Budget: Hostel Cuore Kurashiki is located in a historic Bikan district in Kurashiki. The property is decorated in a retro-trendy style and each guest room features a unique design and stylish interior. Guests can choose to stay in a private room or in a dormitory room with bunk beds. A popular pick for travelers who looking for budget and solo stay in Kurashiki.
Overall: Best Stay in Okayama
All in all, we hope you are able to find your best stay in Okayama. The choice of where to stay in Okayama largely depends on your preferences and the purpose of your visit. Each area offers a unique experience.
Staying in Okayama Station or Kurashiki Station if you are looking for convenience to base yourself when visiting the area. We highly recommend Mitsui Garden Hotel Okayama and Hotel Granvia Okayama for spending your comfortable nights.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history then Kurashiki Historical area is a top choice. Check out the Kurashiki Ivy Square, one of the top-rated luxurious places to stay in Okayama.
Related Read: Okayama and Kurashiki Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
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