Okayama Prefecture, known as the “Land of Sunshine,” enjoys more sunny days throughout the year than most places in Japan. It is also known as the “Fruit Kingdom of Okayama.” Thanks to the warm Setouchi climate and cultivation techniques honed over generations, the peaches and grapes grown here are regarded as some of the finest fruits in Japan.
Okayama is especially famous for its Shimizu Hakuto Peach, known for its translucent white skin and smooth texture; the Pione grape, with its large, juicy, and sweet berries; and the Muscat of Alexandria, admired for its beautiful emerald green color. Each of these varieties is cultivated more extensively in Okayama than anywhere else in Japan. Okayama’s fruits are delicious on their own and make for exceptional parfaits. In Okayama City, known as the “City of Fruit Parfaits,” around 30 cafés and hotels serve parfaits made with seasonal fruits.
The prefecture also has many tourist farms where visitors can enjoy fruit picking, including peaches and grapes. Some farms offer all-you-can-eat courses or souvenirs to take home, with the fruit varieties changing by season. It’s recommended to plan your visit in advance.
Highlights
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Okayama is recognized as one of Japan’s top fruit-producing regions, known for its advanced cultivation techniques.
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The warm climate helps produce consistently high-quality fruits.
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Especially famous for its white peaches and grapes, Okayama is a leading production area.
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Okayama City offers a wide range of fruit parfaits at many cafés and restaurants.
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Numerous farms across the prefecture offer fruit-picking experiences.