Here’s our recommended ranking of concept cafes in Okayama.
This ranking introduces popular concept cafes in Okayama, from classic favorites to more unique spots. Please use it as a reference.
The Charm of Okayama’s Streetscapes and Downtown Areas Where History and Modern Life Coexist in Harmony
Okayama’s streetscape has a distinctive charm, blending the historical atmosphere that still remains with the convenience of a modern city. Especially in central Okayama City, sightseeing highlights that symbolize traditional Japanese beauty—such as Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden—harmonize with the surrounding natural scenery。
Two areas that are especially famous as downtown districts are Omotecho Shopping Street and the area in front of Okayama Station. Omotecho Shopping Street features a wide variety of stores lined up under an arcade, supporting local daily life while also being a popular spot for tourists. From traditional Japanese confectionery shops and stores carrying Okayama specialties to cafes and fashion boutiques, old and new coexist side by side。
At night in Okayama, the entertainment districts of Yanagimachi and Chuocho come alive. With many izakaya pubs, bars, and clubs, you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients as well as regional sake. In these areas, you’ll find a wide range of options—from traditional Japanese ryotei restaurants to casual eateries—and you can see a lively scene with many different kinds of people coming and going.
Overall, Okayama is a city where historical background and modern convenience coexist, offering visitors a variety of experiences. Its appeal can be said to lie in the balance between its calm scenery and its vibrant downtown districts.
– Ranking –
We’re bringing you a ranking of concept cafes in Okayama across a variety of genres!
No. 10: CRAZY Universe
“CRAZY Universe” in Okayama is a bar where subculture fans—those who love anime, games, tokusatsu, and more—come together. The interior is decorated with a wide range of posters and figures, creating an exciting space just to visit. Unique cast members in cosplay provide service, and through conversation with other guests and the staff, you can share the appeal of subculture. With its friendly, homey atmosphere that even first-timers can enjoy, it’s a special place where you can talk to your heart’s content about what you love.
No. 9: NINJA BAR Ninotchka (Second Basement)
Located in Okayama, NINJA BAR 二の地下 is a unique concept bar themed around a ninja residence. Inside, kunoichi dressed in ninja garb welcome you in a space decorated with Japanese-style elements such as fox masks and wagasa paper umbrellas, creating an extraordinary atmosphere. A highlight is the “Shuriken Training,” where you can try throwing shuriken—easy for beginners to take on. There’s also a wide selection of drinks and food, and you can enjoy it all at reasonable prices starting from 2,500 yen. For certain events, costume changes are also held, making it a captivating place with new discoveries each time you visit.
No. 8: NEXTE
Located in Okayama, NEXTE is a concept cafe themed around anime and cosplay. The cast serves you while cosplaying popular anime and game characters, and the interior is decorated with anime posters and figures—creating a special space for anime fans. Pricing is straightforward, and there are discounts for women, making it easy to drop in casually. Another plus is its convenient access—just a 3-minute walk from Daunji-mae Station. Popular as a place for anime lovers to connect, it’s an ideal spot for sightseeing or enjoying the local nightlife.
No. 7: Gothic Cafe & Bar Dark Maiden
“Gothic Cafe & Bar Dark Maiden” in Okayama Prefecture is a concept cafe & bar where you can enjoy a unique worldview themed around gothic and dark aesthetics. In a fantastical space where “yami-kawaii” doll maids welcome you, you can spend an extraordinary time enjoying drinks and karaoke. Business hours are 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on weekdays, and 1:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. on weekends and holidays, and the reasonable pricing is another draw. It’s also easy to access from Okayama Station, and its stylish, social-media-friendly atmosphere is supported by many people.
No. 6: Kusou Sekai (空想セカヰ)
“Kusou Sekai” is a new-sensation concept cafe where you can enjoy oshi-katsu and subculture culture together with a lineup of unique cast members who dream of becoming idols. With a gathering of idol otaku, “jirai-kei” small-animal types, chatty girls, and laid-back personalities, it’s a place where each customer can find their own “oshi idol.” You can enjoy the experience from a budget of 2,500 yen, and immerse yourself in a special worldview centered on dreams and oshi-katsu. Why not weave your own story tonight at “Kusou Sekai” in Okayama?
No. 5: New Play! (にゅーぷれ！)
“New Play!” is a concept cafe in Okayama themed around Maid × Games. The interior is bathed in colorful LED lights inspired by a gaming room, and you can enjoy everything from nostalgic retro games to the latest titles. Spend a fun time through versus games and cheki photo sessions with uniquely charming maids. In addition, seasonal cosplay events and maids in special costumes offer fresh appeal, so you can have a new experience every time you visit. With reasonable pricing, even beginners can drop in easily, making it an irresistible spot for game lovers.
No. 4: Concept Cafe & Bar Alice
A fantastical concept cafe & bar that feels like you’ve wandered into the world of “Alice in Wonderland.”
Enjoy a special night through conversation with cast members dressed in story-inspired costumes, and choose from a variety of seating options suited to your purpose.
In a space like a tea party that opens at midnight, this is a place where you can meet your very own “oshi rabbit.”
No. 3: HB Cafe
HB Cafe is an idol-themed concept cafe located in Tamachi, Kita Ward, Okayama City. Real idols provide the service, so you can enjoy a fun time in a homey atmosphere. Performances and events are held daily by members of the development-style idol project “Treasure Project,” letting you discover new charm every time you visit. With access just a 4-minute walk from Tamachi Station, it’s a one-of-a-kind place where you can enjoy a special moment with idols.
No. 2: Chiyo ni ya Chiyo ni (ちよにやちよに)
Located a 7-minute walk from Okayama Station, “Chiyo ni ya Chiyo ni” is a soothing concept cafe themed around angels, with a white-based interior. Apprentice angels serve you with heartfelt care, offering visitors a special time. The simple, clean space has counter seating only, and with friendly service and a gentle atmosphere, it delivers a moment that helps you forget daily fatigue. All-you-can-drink options and a unique story setting are also part of the charm, making it a special place you’ll want to visit again and again.
No. 1: Watashi no Deban (ワタシノデバン)
“Watashi no Deban” is a cat-ear maid cafe in Okayama City. In a cute, pink-themed interior, you can enjoy heartfelt hospitality from a lineup of uniquely charming cat-ear maids. With various ways to have fun—such as a 60-minute all-you-can-drink plan, cheki photos, and karaoke—it’s a relaxing space that even first-time visitors can enjoy casually. Access is also convenient: a 2-minute walk from Daunji-mae Station. Reservations and group use are available as well, making it perfect for spending special time with friends or with your favorite maid.
We carefully selected and ranked concept cafes in Okayama. Please be sure to visit any cafe that catches your interest.
The Charm of Okayama’s Downtown Areas: A Distinctive Character and Approachability Unlike Other Cities
Okayama’s downtown areas aren’t overwhelmingly large compared to those in other cities, and their pleasantly compact scale is part of the appeal. Especially around Okayama Station, major facilities for shopping, dining, and lodging are concentrated within walking distance, making the area convenient for both tourists and locals. Rather than sprawling across a wide area like in major metropolitan cities, everything is gathered in one place—so you can enjoy sightseeing and shopping efficiently.
For nightlife, Yanagimachi and Chuocho are well known, with plenty of restaurants, izakaya pubs, and bars. The scale is smaller than entertainment districts in other cities, but that also means the area is safer—one of Okayama’s strengths—so women and families can visit with peace of mind. In addition, many places serve dishes made with local ingredients, and menus featuring Okayama-grown fruit and seafood are especially appealing to tourists.
Another advantage of Okayama’s downtown areas is how easy they are to access. Because the main areas are concentrated within walking distance from Okayama Station, you can spend less time getting around and use your sightseeing time more efficiently. Okayama Station is also a major stop for the Shinkansen, making it extremely convenient to reach from other cities. This makes it easy for tourists to use Okayama as a base and visit surrounding sightseeing spots as well.
Here are some sightseeing spots in Okayama!
Korakuen Garden
One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, this stroll-style landscape garden offers beautiful scenery in every season.
Okayama Castle
Known as “Ujo (Crow Castle)” for its black exterior. Highlights include the view from the main keep and the historical exhibits.
Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
An area that retains an Edo-period atmosphere, lined with white-walled storehouses and old townhouses. It also offers plenty of stylish cafes and shops.
Kibiji Area (Bitchu Kokubun-ji Temple)
A scenic area known for its vast rural landscapes and five-story pagoda, where you can enjoy visiting ancient burial mounds and cycling.
Momotaro Shrine and Momotaro Odori Avenue
A sightseeing area symbolic of Okayama, dotted with art and statues related to the Momotaro legend.
When you’re in Okayama, be sure to stop by the sightseeing spots too!