5 famous places from Japanese fairytales you can visit

An old couple finds a little boy inside a giant peach and grows up to save the town from ogres - sounds familiar? This folktale is probably one of the most famous children's stories in Japan.

The story is often associated with the capital city of Okayama Prefecture, in the southern part of Japan's Honshu island, where "Peach Boy" is looked upon as a town hero with statues and references built to commemorate his brave act and legend.

According to JapanGuide.com, the picturesque city, Okayama, was developed as a castle town and is home to Korakuen Garden, one of the top three gardens in Japan.

If you are a fan of fairytales or looking for a family-friendly holiday, these destinations are a great way to explore greater Japan and appreciate its culture and history.

Another interesting place to visit is Takachiho, a mountainous region of Miyazaki Prefecture where a sacred cave is located.

In the popular legend, the sun goddess Amaterasu hid in the cave after her brother, the storm god Susanoo, went on a rampage, thus depriving Japan of sunlight. She was eventually lured out of the cave when the other gods danced for her.

Today, an re-enactment of the myth in the form of a dance is performed for visitors. The cave has been turned into a shrine and as it is considered sacred, visitors can only see it from an observation point.

Fascinated by folklores? Find out the famous places from Japanese fairytales you can visit in the gallery below.

wjeanne@sph.com.sg