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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Soja.
Discover the hidden treasures of Soja, an enchanting town nestled in the heart of Japan, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern delights.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Soja:
1. Kinojo Castle
Castle ruins located in Soja, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the castle tower. Explore the ruins of the castle and its impressive gates and walls.
Don’t miss: The reconstructed main gate of the castle, which is also known as “Chrysanthemum Gate,” and the beautifully manicured Japanese garden located outside the castle.
Insider travel tips: Visit the castle during the cherry blossom season in spring for a breathtaking view. Wear comfortable shoes as there are steep stairs to climb within the castle.
Also, bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
2. Bitchu Matsuyama Castle
Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is a mountaintop castle located in Soja, Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The castle also features a museum with exhibits about the history of the castle and the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The hike up to the castle can be strenuous, but it is worth it for the stunning views from the top.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby town of Soja, which has a charming historic district and several excellent restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike up to the castle. If possible, try to visit on a clear day for the best views.
Additionally, the castle can be quite crowded during peak tourist season, so try to visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the crowds.
3. Soja City Museum
The Soja City Museum is a local museum that showcases the history and culture of Soja City in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the city’s rich history through the museum’s collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays.
The museum covers a wide range of themes and topics, including the local pottery industry, the city’s transportation history, and the lives of local celebrities and historical figures.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the pottery exhibits, which showcase some of the city’s most famous local ceramic artworks. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to try their hand at making pottery.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the museum’s exhibits, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of the Japanese language, as many of the displays are in Japanese only.
It’s also a good idea to visit the museum on weekdays, as it can get quite crowded on weekends and holidays.
Finally, make sure to take some time to explore the beautiful park outside the museum, which features a traditional Japanese garden and a small pond.
4. Kokubunji Temple
Kokubunji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Soja, Japan. It was built in the 8th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds and admire the impressive main hall, pagoda, and other ancient structures. There is also a beautiful garden with a pond and walking paths.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the large bronze Buddha statue, which is one of the largest in Japan. It is said to be over 1,200 years old.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a bit of walking involved.
Additionally, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning beauty of the temple and its surroundings.
5. Soja Athletic Park
Soja Athletic Park is a spacious outdoor park located in Soja, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers a variety of sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, baseball fields, soccer pitches, and a cycling track.
Plus, it hosts many cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Visit the Sakazu Park, a beautiful Japanese garden, inside the athletic park. It offers a serene and tranquil environment, perfect for relaxation or a picnic with family and friends.
Insider travel tips: – Come in the spring (late March to early May) to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
6. Hattanji Temple
A historic Buddhist temple located in Soja, Okayama Prefecture.
What to see or do: Admire the temple’s beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Take a stroll around the well-manicured gardens and explore the various halls and shrines, including the impressive main hall which houses a statue of the Amida Buddha.
Attend a Buddhist ceremony or event, which are regularly held at the temple.
Don’t miss: The annual Hattanji Daruma-ichi (Daruma Doll Fair) held in February, where you can buy traditional Japanese Daruma dolls and enjoy various festival food and games.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try Hattanji’s famous green tea, which is said to have been first brought here by the founder of the temple.
Additionally, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.
7. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a beautifully preserved district in the city of Kurashiki, located in Okayama Prefecture. The district boasts a unique blend of traditional Japanese architecture and Western influences from the Taisho period.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along the charming canal lined with weeping willows, and admire the traditional white-walled houses.
The Ohara Museum of Art, Japan’s oldest private museum, is also located here and displays works by Western artists such as Monet, Matisse, and Rodin.
Don’t miss: The former merchant residences known as the Kurashiki Ivy Square, built in the early 1900s and featuring a unique combination of Western and Japanese architecture.
The Kurashiki Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from the region’s ancient past.
Insider travel tips: Take a boat ride down the canal for a unique perspective of the Bikan district. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Be sure to try Kurashiki’s famous white peach and maple leaf-shaped cakes, which make for perfect souvenirs.
8. Kibitsuhiko Shrine
Kibitsuhiko Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Soja, Okayama, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy exploring the beautiful and serene shrine grounds with its many torii gates, ancient trees, and a sacred pond.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the Kibitsu no Matsu, a 2000-year-old pine tree that is considered a natural monument.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a peaceful experience.
9. Mt
Mt. Soja, also known as Sojusan, is a 767 meter-high mountain located in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking the well-maintained trails that lead to the summit, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is also home to several shrines and temples, including Sojaji Temple and Kannō-ji Temple.
Don’t miss: The view from the summit is truly breathtaking, so make sure to bring a camera and capture the panoramic vista. Also, keep an eye out for the resident monkeys that can often be seen along the trails.
Insider travel tips: The best time to hike Mt. Soja is during the autumn months when the leaves change color, making the scenery even more spectacular.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and pack plenty of water and snacks for the hike.
Additionally, the nearby city of Okayama offers plenty of accommodations and restaurants for those looking to extend their stay in the area.
10. Yokai Street
Yokai Street is a unique and quirky street located in Soja, Japan, dedicated to the colorful and mischievous world of Yokai, supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore.
What to see or do: Walking down Yokai Street, visitors will be greeted by a variety of colorful statues and installations featuring different Yokai. Each statue comes with its own unique name and backstory, making it an exciting interactive experience for all ages.
The street is further brought alive with various themed shops selling Yokai merchandise, and visitors can even try out some Yokai-themed food and drinks at the street’s cafes and restaurants.
Don’t miss: Make sure to keep an eye out for Kappa, a turtle-like Yokai that loves cucumbers, and Tsukumogami, household items that come to life on their 100th birthday.
Another must-see is Nurikabe, a wall-like Yokai that is believed to cause confusion in travelers.
Insider travel tips: Visit Yokai Street during its annual Yokai Festival, held every summer, to enjoy special events and performances celebrating the world of Yokai.
In addition, make sure to bring some cash as most shops do not accept credit cards.
11. Oyama Temple
A stunning Buddhist temple located in the city of Soja in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture of the temple, and take a stroll around the lovely gardens surrounding it. Visitors can also participate in meditation sessions and other Buddhist activities.
Don’t miss: The annual Oyama Fire Festival, held in August, when the temple is illuminated with thousands of lanterns and visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the temple grounds, and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Visitors can also try the local specialty, Soja udon noodles, at one of the nearby restaurants.
12. Omogo Gorge
Omogo Gorge is a natural attraction located in Soja, a town in Kogi State, Nigeria. The gorge is a deep valley formed by the erosion caused by the flow of the River Omogo.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the gorge by hiking down the rocky terrain and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills, the river, and the lush vegetation.
There are also opportunities for swimming and picnicking by the riverbank.
Don’t miss: The highlight of a visit to Omogo Gorge is the chance to see the popular Omogo Waterfall. The waterfall cascades down the rocky cliff into a clear pool, creating a refreshing and picturesque sight.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
13. Soja Farmers Market
A weekly farmers market featuring local vendors selling a variety of fresh produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, and more.
What to see or do: Stroll around and browse through the stalls to discover fresh produce and unique handmade items. Sample local artisanal cheeses, homemade jams, and freshly baked bread.
Talk to the vendors to learn about their products and farming methods.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the live music performances by local musicians. Grab a bite to eat from one of the food vendors and enjoy a picnic in the park.
Insider travel tips: Come early for the best selection and to avoid the crowds. Bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
Dress comfortably and wear sunscreen as the market takes place outdoors. Don’t forget to bring reusable bags to reduce waste and be eco-friendly.
14. Soja Sunflower Field
A picturesque sunflower field in the town of Soja, Okayama, Japan.
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning sight of sunflowers stretching as far as your eyes can see, sway gently in the breeze and turn their bright yellow faces to the sun.
Take photos with loved ones amidst the sea of yellow blooms.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to sample delicious sunflower-inspired snacks, including soft-serve ice cream and freshly squeezed sunflower juice.
Insider travel tips: Visit in early August when the sunflowers are in full bloom.
15. Daichoji Temple
Daichoji Temple is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in the city of Soja, Okayama prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s exquisite architecture, including the main hall, the bell tower, and the pagoda.
The temple grounds are also home to a variety of lovely gardens and ponds, making it a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the impressive statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion, which stands 11 meters tall and is made of bronze.
Also, don’t miss the stunning autumn leaves that can be seen in the temple gardens during the fall season.
Insider travel tips: If you visit during the summer months, be sure to attend the temple’s annual Obon festival, which features traditional Japanese dance performances and a lively market selling local food and souvenirs.
Additionally, there are several hiking trails nearby that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.