Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is one of Japan’s most atmospheric old towns, where Edo period storehouses and merchant homes line narrow lanes beside the willow-fringed Kurashiki River. In 1642, this district came under the direct control of the Tokugawa shogunate and flourished as a bustling trading center for rice collection. The district still has its original white-plastered walls and lattice windows. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll or take a short ride on a traditional riverboat, once used to transport goods, for a unique perspective on the townscape. At night, the riverside buildings are elegantly illuminated in a display created by the world-renowned lighting designer, Ishii Motoko.
The quarter is also home to the Ohara Museum of Art, Japan’s first private museum dedicated to Western art, showcasing works by Monet, El Greco, and Japanese masters. The Ohara family, the founders of the company, have been active merchants since the Edo period. Another highlight is Ivy Square, a red-brick former cotton mill transformed into a complex of shops, galleries, and a hotel. The site was previously home to a spinning mill built on the grounds of the former Edo Shogunate’s government office.
Kurashiki is also known for its craftsmanship today. Boutiques selling high-quality Kurashiki denim and canvas products, as well as cafés serving seasonal treats, make it a delightful place to browse and linger.