A day in Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Japan is full of treasures, and the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is one of them. In the city of Kurashiki, this district is a journey back in time, offering a fascinating dive into Japanese history and culture. With its vast expanse, you wander through the streets as if you were living in a neighborhood from another era.

The cobbled streets, the willow-lined canals, and the traditional wooden buildings.

I set off from Hiroshima for a day trip to visit this place, and it was incredibly hot this July, nearly over 35°C. As usual, I forgot sunscreen and a hat! The day was filled with the sound of cicadas.

The history of Kurashiki Bikan

Kurashiki Bikan is a district that has preserved its old-world charm. Once an important trading center, the area thrived thanks to its network of canals that facilitated the transport of goods. The rice warehouses, now converted into museums, shops, and cafes, bear witness to this rich commercial history. The name “Kurashiki” means “warehouse of Kurashiki.”

If you have time, visit Kurashiki Monogatarikan, the mini local history museum before starting your day to fully understand the city’s history.

One of the most iconic aspects of Kurashiki Bikan is undoubtedly its canals. Lined with weeping willows, they create an almost romantic atmosphere.

You can even take a ride in a traditional boat.

One of the best ways to discover Kurashiki Bikan is to get lost in its small alleys. Each street corner reveals new surprises, whether it’s a hidden café, an art gallery, or a breathtaking view of the canals. These moments of spontaneous exploration are often the most memorable.

The Ohara house

There are many different houses to explore, but I highly recommend visiting the Ohara House, which is very interesting. The tour starts with modern artistic structures, then continues directly to the cultural heritage of this house, beginning with the kitchen, the well, and the stove.

You then navigate inside, and it’s incredibly spacious—I wouldn’t have guessed it from the outside. There are different buildings, each with complementary yet distinct architectures. You’ll find the Japanese style with the tea house and its sliding wooden panels with silk paper, but there are also more robust stone buildings, still with a Japanese style. Each room explains more about the history, but the explanations are in Japanese.

The final touch overlooking the garden is superb, and you can relax for a moment on the tatami mats while ordering tea. It’s a well-deserved break after exploring the interior of this magnificent home.

Kanryuji temple

At the heart of Kurashiki Bikan, the Kanryuji Temple stands out. The temple is located a few steps from the bustling streets of the historical district. To get there, you pass by the Tsurugatayama Tunnel. And to its left, you can see the long staircase leading to the shrine.

The pavilions are elegant, with walls decorated with calligraphy and traditional paintings. The architectural details, such as the pagoda roofs and carved wooden doors, are stunning.

There is also a zen garden located behind the temple. The sand raked in delicate patterns and the carefully arranged stones create an ideal space for reflection.

Achi Shrine

Continuing behind the Kanryuji Temple, you come across this place. Nestled on a hill, it offers a stunning view of the historical district and its canals. To get there, you have to climb a stone staircase, an ascent that is well worth the effort.

The Achi Shrine is known for its sacred tree, “阿智神社御神木招霊の木” (Achi Jinja Goshinboku Shōrei no Ki). This majestic tree, revered by locals, is believed to invite benevolent spirits and offer blessings to visitors.

After exploring the shrine, I took a moment to rest on a bench in the shade.

Kurashiki Yoimachi Garden

This traditional garden, often overlooked by usual tourist circuits, offered me a welcome break in the whirlwind of summer heat and tourism. I found myself sitting on a rock amidst bamboo at least 4 to 5 meters tall. The wind in the leaves, the people around in silence—it was an amazing sensation.

The garden is carefully designed to reflect the Japanese aesthetic of harmony and simplicity.

Kurashiki Ivy Square: British-Japanese charm

Among Kurashiki’s gems, Kurashiki Ivy Square is a must-visit place that combines British charm with Japanese elegance. This historical complex, once a cotton mill, has been transformed into a cultural space. The red brick complex is covered in ivy. It’s beautiful and creates a real contrast with the traditional Japanese district.

Inside the buildings, you will find a variety of exhibitions and shops.

What else to do in Kurashiki

The museums of Kurashiki Bikan

Kurashiki Bikan is home to several fascinating museums worth visiting. Among them, the Ohara Museum of Art is a must-see. Founded in 1930 by Magosaburo Ohara, this museum is the first Western art museum in Japan and houses works by masters such as Monet, Renoir, and El Greco. The contrast between the traditional Japanese architecture of the building and the Western art it contains is striking.

Another interesting museum is the Kurashiki Toy Museum, which features an impressive collection of traditional Japanese toys.

Shopping in Kurashiki Bikan

For shopping enthusiasts, Kurashiki Bikan is a true paradise. Local craft shops offer unique and authentic products, ranging from pottery to textiles to traditional souvenirs.

Kurashiki denim street: The elegance of denim

While exploring Kurashiki, don’t miss Kurashiki Denim Street. This picturesque street is a tribute to the region’s famous denim industry.

Here, only denim products adorn the shop windows. Local artisans perpetuate an ancestral know-how, producing high-quality denim clothing that combines comfort and style.