Okayama city developed as a castle town during the Edo Period (1603-1868) and became a significant regional power. Okayama's most famous attraction is Korakuen Garden, which is ranked as one of the three best landscape gardens in Japan, along with Kanazawa's Kenrokuen and Mito's Kairakuen. Okayama Castle is located just across from the garden. Okayama serves as the locale for the popular fairy tale of Momotaro (the Peach Boy), so visitors will notice many references to the legendary hero.