The main reason for stopping off in the capital of Okayama-ken, OKAYAMA , 730km west of Tokyo, is to stretch your legs in its famous garden, Korakuen , considered one of Japan's top three. The spacious gardens are overlooked by the reconstructed castle Okayama-joi , around which the city developed in the Edo period, but aside from the intriguing Okayama Orient Museum there's little else of note in this modern town.

Okayama, with its trams and riverside walks, is a transport hub for trips out to surrounding attractions. The top draw is Kurashiki , just fifteen minutes west of the city, with its well-preserved enclave of picturesque old merchant houses and canals. From Kurashiki you can head inland to Takahashi to discover Japan's highest castle, Bitchu Matsuyama , looking down from its mountain-top over a town of old temples. For a spectacular view of both the Inland Sea and the Seto-Ohashi bridge, aim for Washu-zan on the southern tip of the prefecture. To discover fragments of the area's ancient history, consider pedalling along the Kibi bicycle route , west of the city, past fifth-century burial mounds and rustic temples and shrines. And even more off-the-beaten-track sights will be within your reach if you opt to stay at one of the prefecture's International Villas , self-catering accommodation in scenic locations specially reserved for foreign visitors.