Okayama Ekimae Station

Riding the retro tram from Okayama Ekimae Station was like stepping into a living postcard of Japan’s past. The old-fashioned cars, with their polished wood interiors and distinct clatter, evoked a warm nostalgia that set the tone for a leisurely exploration of the city.

As we boarded at the bustling station, I found myself charmed by the tram’s vintage character—the polished brass railings, soft lighting, and those wide windows that framed Okayama’s cityscape like moving paintings. Soon, the tram rolled away from the curb, weaving through the streets with a gentle, rhythmic sway.

The route took us past a series of city highlights: Okayama Castle’s dark silhouette rising beside the river, the serene stretches of Korakuen Garden, and the lively hum of daily life just outside. Each stop unfolded another layer of the city’s charm, and it was easy to relax and let the sights flow by, knowing the journey itself was as much a part of the experience as the destinations.

Watching locals and travelers share the ride—some chatting quietly, others gazing with the same quiet wonder I felt—I realized how much this tram connects people not just to landmarks, but to a slower, more mindful pace of travel. It encouraged me to savor each moment, each corner turned, each thread of Okayama’s story glimpsed through the glass.