Katorei Otsuka Museum of Art

Overview

The Katorei Otsuka Museum of Art, located in Ibara City, Okayama Prefecture, houses a significant collection of works by masters associated with the Nihon Bijutsuin (Japan Art Academy). The museum boasts masterpieces such as Keika Kanjima's representative works, "Sakura" (Cherry Blossoms) and "Fuji" (Mount Fuji), as well as Taikan Yokoyama's "Reihou Fuji" (Spiritual Peak Fuji). These works offer a profound encounter with Japanese aesthetics. Adjacent to the museum is the "Katoreien" Japanese garden, designed by Sougen Ueda, the 15th head of the Ueda Souka school. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. The Katorei Otsuka Museum of Art was established to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Takaya Corporation, a company based in Ibara City that manufactures electronic components and semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Chojiro Otsuka, the founder of Takaya Corporation, was known for his love of art and played a key role in establishing the museum. The museum building was designed by Kuramorikenchiku Sekkei Jimusho, an architectural design firm active in Okayama Prefecture. In addition to the museum, they have designed numerous public and commercial facilities. The museum's architecture blends Japanese and Western styles, harmoniously blending with the surrounding nature. In addition to the exhibition halls, the museum also has a cafe and a shop. The cafe offers museum-original sweets and drinks, while the shop sells original museum goods and local specialties. The Katorei Otsuka Museum of Art is a peaceful museum where you can appreciate the works of masters associated with the Nihon Bijutsuin and the beautiful Japanese garden, "Katoreien." Please be sure to visit when you are in Okayama Prefecture.