History and Changes in Ownership
The facility first opened in April 1980 as the Okayama Kōsei Nenkin Kyūka Center, under the name Well Sunpia Okayama. Approximately 4.2 billion yen in pension funds was invested in its establishment. However, reports in 2004 indicated that the center was operating at a deficit of approximately 200 million yen.
As part of the Social Insurance Agency’s efforts to secure pension funding, the facility was put up for sale. In a June 2009 auction, it was purchased for 380 million yen by Taiyo Kaihatsu, a group company of Taiyo Mokuzai, which operated bowling alleys in Takamatsu and Okayama. The resort reopened under its current name, Suntopia Okayama Soja, on December 2, 2009.
Accommodation and the SUN GLAMP Glamping Resort
Suntopia Okayama Soja offers 53 guest rooms, all equipped with wireless internet access (Wi-Fi). In August 2021, the resort expanded its accommodation options with the opening of SUN GLAMP, a glamping facility featuring seven air-conditioned and heated dome-shaped tents.
Each dome is equipped with a barbecue deck, sink, toilet, and washbasin, allowing guests to enjoy an outdoor experience with the comfort and convenience of modern facilities. It is an appealing option for visitors who want to spend time in nature without giving up everyday comforts.
WAPS Leisure Pool and Kids’ Park
WAPS Leisure Pool
Open seasonally during the summer, the WAPS leisure pool is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. Its facilities include thrilling water slides and the Rock Mountain slide attraction, offering plenty of excitement for adventurous guests. Those looking for a more relaxing experience can float along the lazy river on an inflatable ring.
Kids’ Park
The Kids’ Park offers pools designed for young children, athletic play equipment, and water-based attractions. With activities suited to smaller children, it is an excellent place for families to enjoy a fun-filled day together.
Other Facilities and Activities
Beyond its pools and accommodations, Suntopia Okayama Soja offers a broad selection of facilities for leisure, sports, business, and special occasions. These include a dedicated wedding venue, restaurants, a lounge, banquet halls, and meeting rooms, making the resort suitable for everything from family holidays to corporate gatherings.
Sports facilities include a gymnasium for sporting events and competitions, table tennis facilities, a futsal court, and five tennis courts. Visitors can also enjoy a 16-hole ground golf course and a pétanque court for playing the French-origin ball sport.
The large public bath, known as Santopia no Yu, is also open to day visitors. Karaoke rooms and mahjong rooms provide additional entertainment and a relaxing way to unwind after a day of activities or a banquet.
Nearby Historical Attractions
The area surrounding Suntopia Okayama Soja is rich in archaeological sites and cultural heritage. Two especially notable landmarks are Tsukuriyama Kofun and Sakuzan Kofun, both enormous ancient burial mounds of considerable historical importance. Visitors can also explore the remains of Bitchū Kokubunji Temple and Bitchū Kokubunji Nunnery, as well as Kinojo Castle, an ancient mountain fortress.
These nearby attractions offer an opportunity to discover the long history of Soja City and the wider Kibiji region while enjoying the resort’s recreational facilities.
A Resort for Relaxation, Recreation, and Exploration
With its extensive range of activities, accommodation, dining, and bathing facilities, Suntopia Okayama Soja caters to families, leisure travelers, and business visitors alike. Its setting amid the natural scenery and historical landmarks of the Kibiji region makes it a convenient base for combining relaxation with sightseeing. Whether enjoying the summer pools, staying in a glamping dome, or exploring the surrounding heritage sites, visitors can experience a varied and enjoyable stay in Okayama Prefecture.