[For Seniors] Local Quiz of Okayama Prefecture: Rediscover the Region’s Charms

Hiruzen Yakisoba

The answer is “Hiruzen Yakisoba.” Hiruzen Yakisoba is a local specialty from the Hiruzen Highlands area in Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture. Its defining feature is a unique style where chicken and cabbage are stir-fried and seasoned with a miso-based sauce. Loved since the late 1950s, this dish is known nationwide as a rare miso-based variation of yakisoba. It’s a dish that lets you savor the delicious ingredients grown in the refreshing highland climate.

Yunogo Onsen

Yunogo Onsen, located in Mimasaka City, Okayama Prefecture, is known as one of the three famous hot springs of Mimasaka. According to legend, a white heron healed its wounds there, which is why it came to be called “Sagi no Yu” (Heron’s Bath). The hot spring town features traditional, nostalgic inns and foot baths scattered throughout, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the waters while feeling the area’s history and nature. The water is mildly alkaline and is said to leave the skin smooth, making it a recommended onsen for older visitors as well.

Bizen ware

The traditional craft for which Bizen City is famous is Bizen ware. Bizen ware is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, with a history of over a thousand years. It is a simple yet robust pottery fired without glaze. Its earthy texture and rich firing colors are highly valued, and it is said to develop more character the more it is used. Many artisans continue to carry on the tradition today, producing a variety of works such as vases, tea utensils, and tableware. It is familiar to older generations as well and is one of Okayama Prefecture’s representative specialties.

Koishikawa Korakuen Garden

The correct answer is “Kōrakuen.” Kōrakuen, located in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, is counted as one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, along with Kenrokuen in Ishikawa Prefecture and Kairakuen in Ibaraki Prefecture. Kōrakuen is a daimyo garden created in the early Edo period by Ikeda Tsunamasa, lord of the Okayama Domain, and is admired for its vast grounds and harmonious scenery. Visitors can easily enjoy the changing beauty of the seasons, and many people come from all over Japan to this popular sightseeing spot in Okayama. It is especially recommended for seniors as a place to take leisurely strolls and spend time engaging with history.

Mamakarizushi (mamkari sushi)

Mamakarizushi is a representative local dish of Okayama Prefecture. It is made by marinating sappa—small fish of the herring family—in vinegar and placing them on vinegared rice. The name “mamakarI” is said to come from the phrase meaning “so delicious you’ll borrow someone else’s rice.” This traditional sushi has long been enjoyed in households and communities during celebrations and festivals, and it is an essential dish when discussing the food culture of Okayama.

pheasant

Okayama Prefecture’s prefectural bird is the green pheasant. Pheasants live throughout Japan and are known for their beautiful plumage and distinctive call. In particular, in Okayama, they are famous as one of the companions of Momotaro in the folk tale “Momotaro,” and are cherished as a regional symbol. As part of efforts to protect the natural environment, Okayama Prefecture also engages in activities to preserve pheasant habitats. You may even spot pheasants in Okayama’s fields and hills, so try looking for them and enjoy the nature close at hand.

Washuzan Highland

Washuzan Highland is a popular amusement park located in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. It’s especially famous for its thrilling roller coasters and a Ferris wheel that offers sweeping views of the Seto Ohashi Bridge. The park features a Brazilian-themed area where visitors can enjoy an exotic atmosphere and live performance shows. It’s a beloved sightseeing spot among locals and is often visited by three-generation families.