Okayama was a delightful surprise. We had initially pictured it as a quaint little village. Still, it turned out to be a bustling city with towering establishments, an efficient transport system, and many attractions waiting to be explored.
Okayama City, the capital of Okayama prefecture, is conveniently located about 180 kilometers southwest of Osaka. The journey from Shin-Osaka station by Shinkansen is a mere 30 minutes, passing through the heritage cities of Kobe and Himeji. Upon arrival at Okayama station, it’s easily linked to a bus stop that can take you to different parts of the city. The city also operates trams, making it a breeze to navigate and explore.
Finally. We're in Okayama!
Okayama City exudes a unique charm, much like Himeji and Kobe. It’s a bustling city but not as chaotic and overwhelming as Tokyo and Osaka. It’s not as loud, not as vibrant and colorful. Yet, there’s something about Japanese cities that sets them apart from each other, and Okayama’s charm is something you’ll want to experience for yourself.
The scenes around JR Okayama Station.
Trams operate day and night for the regulars. Unfortunately, for us, we weren't able to try using these trams.
We took a bus to the city’s most visited attraction. The Okayama Castle, built in the mid-1300s as a keep to Okayama’s most prominent feudal lords over the centuries, stands tall as a reconstructed castle as the original was burned down during World War II. Bus fares from JR Okayama Station to Okayama Castle costs JPY 210 one way.
The castle is separated to the mainland by a moat. After a 5-minute walk from the bus stop, a well-lit concrete bridge will bring you to the castle’s grounds. There’s quite of a climb to the castle. However, once you’re done with all the walking and the climbing, the view of the castle, especially at night, will be totally worth every step.
The bridge across the moat illuminated by paper lanterns..
 We were unfortunate that we arrived around 6 in the evening that day. The castle museum is open to public from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM and costs JPY 400 to enter for adults and JPY 100 for students. They also give discounts for groups of 20 or more. Refer to the price list below for the ticket prices (as of December 2024).
Verdict. Is Okayama City worth visiting as a tourist?
Absolutely! Aya-chan and I’s biggest regret that time was we weren’t able to allot more time to explore the city. If you’re visiting Kansai and you’re planning to go on a side-trip to Hyogo and Okayama prefectures, make sure to allot ample time to explore the wonders of these prefectures. A whole day or two would probably suffice. We’ll probably come back someday.
After two years of anticipation, Aya-chan’s dream has finally become a reality. The four of us, including Aze and Honey, decided to embark on a journey to the enchanting Bacuit Bay of El Nido. Aya, since she started working with us, has always harbored the dream of cruising through the warm, crystal clear waters of El Nido, with its majestic limestone cliffs standing as silent witnesses to our escapades.
For years, our plans seemed to be at the mercy of the weather gods, as every attempt to set a date for our trip was met with rain clouds that seemed to follow Aya-chan. It became our little running joke – that Aya was a rain magnet. But we didn’t let this deter us. With each canceled plan, our determination grew stronger. We knew that the perfect day would come when the sun would shine for us, and the islands of El Nido would welcome us with open arms.
Finally…the day has come.
The day couldn’t have been more perfect. As the clock struck 9 am, the sun greeted us with its warm embrace, a common blessing during dry season in Palawan. The sky, a vast canvas, was adorned with just a smattering of clouds. The air was still, with the winds holding their breath, as if in anticipation of our grand journey ahead. The sea mirrored this calmness, its surface smooth and unbroken, like a sheet of polished metal.
With twenty-two fellow adventurers, we stepped onto the boat, each of us carrying a sense of excitement, and our hearts beating in unison. As the boat began to glide over the sea, we left behind the all the familiar and sailed towards the promise of the extraordinary.
The Enigmatic Beauty of Shimizu Island
Nestled in the stunning Bacuit Bay of El Nido, Shimizu Island emerges as an island that’s not only rich in marine biodiversity but also steeped in legend. A mere 20-minute boat ride from Corong-corong Beach, this island beckons with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a snorkeler’s paradise.
Shimizu Island holds more than just natural allure; it carries a poignant tale that adds to its mystique. The island’s name, evocative of its Japanese connection, is a tribute to a Japanese scuba diver who met a tragic fate while exploring the underwater caves surrounding the island. According to local lore, the diver, known by the surname Shimizu, vanished into the ocean’s depths, only to be found lifeless days later on the island’s serene shores.
Shimizu island’s white sand beach!First timer!
Bacuit Bay’s Twin Gems: Twin Rocks
As the name suggests, Twin Rocks features two monumental rock formations that rise majestically from the turquoise sea, creating a striking visual contrast against the marbled sky. It’s a sight that embodies the raw beauty of nature and the spirit of adventure that El Nido offers.
For the first-time visitor or the seasoned traveler, Twin Rocks is a testament to the fact that there are always new discoveries to be made, no matter how many times you’ve explored a place. It’s a reminder to keep looking beyond the familiar routes and itineraries because you never know what natural masterpiece awaits around the corner.
Twin Rocks…literally.
Big Lagoon: A Kayaker’s Paradise
The Big Lagoon is often the star of the show when it comes to natural attractions. Its expansive and deep waters are a call to those who love to explore by kayak. The journey to the lagoon is an adventure in itself, offering a mix of tranquility and excitement as you paddle through the serene waters.
For many, the trip to the Big Lagoon is a memorable experience. The physical exertion of kayaking can be quite tiring, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The sense of achievement when you navigate through the lagoon’s vastness is unparalleled.
However, nature has its own plans, and sometimes they include a sudden downpour. It’s a reminder that even the best-laid plans can be at the mercy of the elements. Rain can add an unexpected layer to the adventure, making the experience even more unforgettable. Rain started to fall.
Photos first before working out.Squeezed through this tiny little cave at the far end of the lagoon.…and it’s about to rain. Thanks, Aya-chan.
The Hidden Charm of the Secret Lagoon
Tucked away beside the majestic Big Lagoon, there lies a hidden place known to locals as the Secret Lagoon. It’s a place shrouded in mystery and humor, with a running joke among the local men about the three types of water you’ll find within its embrace: saltwater, brackish water, and the whimsically named ‘human water.’
The journey into the Secret Lagoon is an adventure in itself. Visitors are greeted by a small, unassuming hole in a rock, a natural gateway so narrow that it permits entry to only one person at a time. This singular passage adds to the lagoon’s allure, making the act of entering feel like stepping into another world.
Once inside, the Secret Lagoon opens up into a serene oasis, a stark contrast to the narrow entry point. The Secret Lagoon is not just a body of water; it’s a testament to nature’s ability to hide wonders in plain sight, challenging adventurers to seek out and appreciate these hidden treasures. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences require a bit of effort—and a sense of humor—to uncover.
Lunch first before squeezing through the Secret Lagoon…not a good idea.The tiny, unassuming hole on a rock to access the lagoon.Say “pee!”
Entalula Beach: A Slice of Paradise
Entalula Beach is a beach that has captured the hearts of travelers from around the globe. With its powdery white sands, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s no wonder this beach is often listed among the world’s best.
A visit to Entalula is like stepping into a postcard-perfect scene. The secluded nature of the island offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re basking in the sun, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply enjoying a picnic on the beach, Entalula provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and adventure.
And these were what’s underneath the turquoise jewel.Honey in action.
It was a day to disconnect from the world and immerse ourselves in nature’s beauty. A day where time seemed to stand still, and the only thing that mattered was the beauty that surrounded us and the memories we were about to create.
RA
AFQs (Answered Frequent Questions), because FAQs are too mainstream:
Tours cost PHP 1,200-1,400 per person, inclusive of lunch prepared by the tour guides.
Tours can be arranged through your hotel or accommodation.
Tours start as early as 8:00 AM and end before 5:00 PM.
Snacks, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages are available in SOME islands and only accepts cash and GCash as modes of payment.
Other fees include: 1) Environmental fee of PHP 200 per person (PHP 100 if resident of Palawan); 2) Kayak rental fee of PHP 300 per kayak (can seat 2-3 persons)
Use of snorkels and water shoes are highly recommended. These can be rented at PHP 100, if I remember correctly.
You may leave a comment if you have further questions.
