Guida
The Ohara Museum of Art, established in 1930, is the first private museum in Japan dedicated to Western art. It was founded by the industrialist Magosaburo Ohara to commemorate the painter Kojiro Kojima. The museum boasts a wide-ranging collection, including Western modern and contemporary art, as well as Eastern antiquities and works related to the Mingei (folk art) movement. Visitors can enjoy a tailored viewing experience across several facilities, including the Main Building, the Crafts and Oriental Art Pavilion, and the Kojiro Kojima Memorial Hall.
The museum's foundation is deeply rooted in the legacy of Magosaburo Ohara, a prominent figure in Kurashiki. Ohara founded the museum to honor the talent and artistic spirit of his friend, the painter Kojiro Kojima. Kojima was deeply involved in blending Eastern sensibilities with the essence of Western art through his creative activities in Europe. The collection gathered through this vision remains the core of the museum today. Since its inception, the institution has continuously accumulated a collection that reflects the flow of Japanese modern/contemporary art, the Mingei movement, and global art history.
The exhibition is divided into several specialized areas: the Main Building, the Crafts and Oriental Art Pavilion, and the Kojiro Kojima Memorial Hall. In the Main Building, you can witness the development of Western art through world-renowned masterpieces. The Crafts and 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 perspective with displays of ancient Egyptian and West Asian art, alongside Kojima's own paintings.
The museum is generally open from 9:00 to 17:00. Since exhibition content and operations may vary by day, checking the official schedule in advance is highly recommended. A special program called the "Morning Tour" is sometimes offered, allowing visitors to view the Main Building with a professional guide during the quiet early hours. This is a unique opportunity to face the artworks in a serene, contemplative atmosphere.
Beyond viewing exhibitions, the museum engages in various educational activities for children and adults. The institution also hosts artistic events, such as concerts featuring musicians, to expand the boundaries of art through music. The ticketing system uses a stamp-based format, allowing for a flexible viewing style where you can visit different halls sequentially. The system also allows for tickets to be used across different days under certain conditions.
To maintain a quiet and respectful environment, visitors are asked to observe museum etiquette. Please follow local instructions regarding photography restrictions or prohibited areas to protect the artworks. The museum is accessible to visitors with disabilities, with dedicated routes available for wheelchair users. We ask for your consideration of others while moving through the galleries.
The museum is located near the historic Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. After your artistic immersion, we recommend taking a stroll through the beautiful traditional streets and historic buildings in the surrounding area to complete your cultural journey.