Ikeda Zoo | Review by 王小鈞

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Ikeda Zoo

A zoo with lush greenery where visitors are greeted by about 100 species of animals.

14 Sep 2026 See More

Tucked away in lush greenery, Ikeda Zoo has around 100 species of animals. Although the grounds aren't very large, you can take your time strolling around. I visited on a weekday this time, and there were very few visitors and almost no crowds. I could enjoy seeing each animal at my own pace without having to worry about it being packed.

The zoo is full of greenery, the overall grounds are quite well maintained, and the animals are well cared for. It feels relaxing and comfortable to walk around. If you're planning a trip to Okayama and like animals or are looking for a more laid-back attraction, Ikeda Zoo is also a good choice.

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Kurashiki Denim Street

Kurashiki Denim Street is a specialty spot for denim from Kojima, Kurashiki City, known as the birthplace of Japanese-made jeans. It offers a wide range of denim products, including Kojima-made jeans, bags, accessories, and interior goods, with easy-to-shop sections for men, women & kids, and miscellaneous goods. One of its charms is being able to casually experience “Kurashiki denim” while comparing differences in texture and finish.
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來到倉敷美觀地區，除了古色古香的街景之外，也別錯過充滿特色的「倉敷丹寧街」。這裡可以輕鬆感受兒島產丹寧（牛仔布）的魅力，街上充滿濃濃的丹寧元素，從牛仔服飾、褲子，到各式各樣的包包、配件與小飾品都有，選擇非常豐富。

實際逛下來，覺得這裡的商品質感都很不錯，設計也很有日本風格，而且價格沒有想像中那麼貴，喜歡牛仔或想買一些具有日本特色的伴手禮，都很適合來這裡尋寶。漫步在倉敷老街的古典街景中，搭配藍色丹寧元素，整體氛圍很有特色，也很好拍。

如果來倉敷美觀地區旅遊，推薦留點時間逛逛丹寧街，說不定會找到一件自己喜歡的丹寧單品。
Okutsu Valley

Okutsu Valley, spread across about 3km, is located upstream of the 'Yoshii River' flowing through Okayama Prefecture. The gorge features an ever-changing landscape, boasting a scenic pedestrian path beside it. As you walk, the sights of peculiar rocks, cliffs, waterfalls, and other quintessential features of a gorge come alive, attracting many nature enthusiasts.
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Okutsu Valley, located upstream of the Yoshii River, is a well-known scenic gorge in Okayama Prefecture and a popular spot for viewing fall foliage. This time, I visited in the summer. Although there were no colorful autumn leaves, the fresh, natural greenery had its own charm. Walking along the gorge, I was surrounded by dense forest, with the gentle sound of the flowing stream blending into the mountain scenery. The whole area was exceptionally peaceful and relaxing.

The weather was beautiful that day, and sunlight filtered through the lush green forest, making the gorge scenery even brighter. I enjoyed the natural scenery along the way without much noise or commotion. It was the perfect place to slow down and take in the tranquility of Okayama's mountains.
Mt. Kinojo (Kinojo Castle)

Mount Kinojo is a 400m tall mountain to the north of Soja Plains. Kinojo Castle was built on the summit of this mountain. There are no records on the “Chronicles of Japan”, thus, the establishment date is unknown. However, according to excavation results, the castle is most likely to be built around the late 7th century.
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A mysterious ancient mountain castle hidden on Mount Kinojo in Soja, Okayama. Walking into this place feels like traveling back in time to an ancient Japanese defensive fortress. Kinojo Castle was built in the late 7th century. At the time, the situation on the Korean Peninsula was unstable, and after Japan was defeated in the Battle of Baekgang in 663, defensive facilities began to be built in northern Kyushu and along the Seto Inland Sea to guard against a possible invasion by the allied forces of Tang and Silla. Kinojo Castle is also believed to have been one of them.

On the way to the parking lot on the mountain, you'll pass along a narrow mountain road, so be especially careful when driving. After arriving at the visitor center, it's about a 10-minute walk to the famous ruins of the West Gate. As you walk slowly along the mountain path, there are observation decks where you can look out over the West Gate and the surrounding mountains. In summer, everything is lush and green, and standing up high with the mountain breeze and the expansive scenery before you feels especially refreshing. Unlike Kyoto or Osaka, this place isn't packed with crowds, giving it a more secluded and mysterious atmosphere.