In the afternoon, visit Ario Kurashiki and Mitsui Outlet Park Kurashiki for shopping

After traveling in Shikoku and Okayama for several days without purchasing any daily necessities, we decided to visit the Ario Kurashiki and Mitsui Outlet Park Kurashiki shopping centers near JR Kurashiki Station. For lunch, we dined at Yorinan, then walked back to Kurashiki Station. After passing through the station and heading towards the north exit, we were impressed by the well-planned road design. The pedestrian bridge allowed us to reach the shopping centers without having to compete with cars.

Upon crossing JR Kurashiki Station, the north exit pedestrian bridge offered a clear view of the Kurashiki Station Clock Tower. By taking a half-circle route on the bridge, we quickly arrived at the Ario Kurashiki shopping center.

There were few vehicles below, making it pleasant to walk along the U-shaped path around Kurashiki Station Clock Tower. It was a great photo spot, though we didn’t plan to wait for the clock’s performance since shopping was our main goal.

Soon, we reached the large Ario Kurashiki shopping center. Besides MUJI, the mall housed many other stores. One of its unique features was the street piano placed along the square’s walkway, which anyone could play freely between 10:00 and 20:00.

In addition to visiting Ario Kurashiki, we bought sneakers at Mitsui Outlet Park Kurashiki. We spent around three hours in the afternoon shopping, with reasonable prices and a pleasant atmosphere. On our way back to Kurashiki Station to catch the train to Takamatsu, we passed by Kurashiki Mirai Park, unexpectedly finding it to be beautifully designed.

Ario Kurashiki also had plenty of facilities, including play areas for children. Despite the hot weather, the visit was relaxing and enjoyable, making shopping a delightful experience.