The Okayama Prefectural Museum celebrates every aspect of the region, from Paleolithic times to today. Established in 1971as part of the 100th anniversary of the prefecture’s establishment, today the museum houses art, pottery and archaeological artifacts. Start your visit to the city and region here to get a sense of how the distinct culture of the area was established and has evolved over time.
Explore the exhibition chronologically, starting with archaeological artifacts. Peer at stoneware discovered in nearby mountains and even fossils of a Naumann elephant that once lived in the area.
Skip forward in time to a selection of straight-bladed ancient swords discovered in nearby mountain caves, which pre-date the development of the more well-known curved Japanese swords. Imagine not just lifting these heavy weapons but becoming an expert swordsman waving them through the air.
Look closely at the details of Bizen ware, Okayama’s local pottery style, whose decorations are made using elaborate firing techniques.
See more artistry displayed in a selection of Buddhist altar fittings, from gongs to intricate openwork depicting a chain of flowers. Spot the distinctive red lacing of the 12th-century Ōyoroi armor, whose uniqueness is the reason for its designation as a national treasure.
In the modern section, appreciate the fine brushwork on a panel painting by Nobuharu Hasegawa, one of Okayama’s greatest artists, depicting a selection of birds and flowers. Examine maps or look at the well-developed folklore collection, full of tools and implements used by local fishermen and farmers.
The Okayama Prefectural Museum is near the Korakuen Garden, so it’s easy to access from elsewhere in the city. Walk from Okayama Station in about 30 minutes or take a tram in 5 minutes to the stop about a 10-minute walk from the park’s southern entrance. Parking is available at the main gate of the garden, but this fills up quickly during the tourist season.
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday during regular business hours, with slightly longer evening hours in summer. The museum closes for several days at year-end. There is an admission fee, with discounts for seniors and free admission for students.
