Ohara Museum of Art

Overview & Highlights

The Ohara Museum of Art, established in 1930, is the first private museum in Japan to focus on Western art. It was founded by the industrialist Magosaburo Ohara to commemorate the painter Kojiro Kojima. The museum boasts a wide-ranging collection, including modern and contemporary Western masterpieces, as well as ancient Eastern art and works related to the Mingei (folk art) movement. Visitors can explore various facilities, including the Main Building, the Crafts & Oriental Art Pavilion, and the Kojiro Kojima Memorial Hall, each offering a unique perspective on art.

History & Cultural Background

The museum's foundation is deeply tied to Magosaburo Ohara, a prominent figure in Kurashiki. Ohara established the museum to honor the talent and artistic spirit of his friend, the painter Kojiro Kojima. Kojima's work, shaped by his experiences in Europe, sought to blend Eastern sensibilities with the essence of Western art. The collection gathered through this vision remains the core of the museum today. Since its inception, the institution has continued to accumulate a significant collection of Japanese modern and contemporary art, alongside global artistic movements and folk art.

Major Exhibits

The museum is divided into several specialized areas: the Main Building, the Crafts & Oriental Art Pavilion, and the Kojiro Kojima Memorial Hall. In the Main Building, you can witness the evolution of art through world-famous Western masterpieces. The Crafts & Oriental Art Pavilion showcases Eastern antiquities such as ceramics and prints, alongside works by figures central to the Mingei movement like Shoji Hamada and Bernard Leach. Additionally, the Kojiro Kojima Memorial Hall offers a multi-faceted view of art through ancient Egyptian and West Asian artifacts, alongside Kojima's own paintings.

Seasonal Tips & Visiting Times

The museum is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. As exhibition contents and operational details may vary by day, it is highly recommended to check the official information before your visit. Occasionally, special programs such as a "Morning Tour" are held, allowing visitors to experience the Main Building with a professional guide during the quiet, serene hours of the morning. This is a wonderful opportunity for a more focused and tranquil viewing experience.

Experiences & Activities

Beyond viewing the permanent collections, the museum engages in various educational activities for children and adults. The museum also hosts musical performances, expanding the boundaries of art through the connection between visual and auditory arts. The ticketing system is designed for flexibility; tickets often feature a stamp system, allowing visitors to move between different halls or return to a specific pavilion at a later time. This system also allows for the possibility of using tickets across different days depending on the specific program rules.

Etiquette & Accessibility

To maintain a serene environment, visitors are asked to observe quiet etiquette. Please follow local instructions regarding photography restrictions and prohibited areas to protect the delicate artworks. The museum is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with designated routes available for wheelchair users. We ask that you remain mindful of those around you while moving through the galleries.

Surrounding Area

The museum is located near the historic Kurashiki Bikan Beautiful Street district. A perfect itinerary includes a visit to the museum followed by a leisurely stroll through the beautifully preserved streets and traditional buildings of the surrounding area.