Ohara Museum of Art Kurashiki Japan
Japan's first private Western art museum, showcasing masterpieces by Monet, Matisse, and Picasso in historic Kurashiki.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Ohara Museum of Art Kurashiki Japan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's first private Western art museum, showcasing masterpieces by Monet, Matisse, and Picasso in historic Kurashiki.
"A must-visit for art lovers, offering world-class masterpieces in a beautifully preserved historic town."
Audio Guide Strategy
Consider using the museum's website with your own earpiece instead of renting the audio guide to save money.
Gift Shop Support
If the audio guide isn't ideal, use the saved funds for postcards or souvenirs in the gift shop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
El Greco's Masterpiece
Main Building
A rare opportunity to see a significant work by the renowned Spanish master, though availability can vary.
Monet's Water Lilies
Main Building
Experience the serene beauty of Impressionist art with works by Claude Monet, a highlight for many visitors.
Japanese Modern Art
Main Building
Explore a curated selection of modern Japanese paintings, showcasing the nation's artistic evolution.
Sculpture Garden
Outdoor Area
A tranquil space featuring French sculptures, offering a peaceful contrast to the indoor galleries.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Understanding Ticket Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Audio Guide Strategy
Consider using the museum's website with your own earpiece instead of renting the audio guide to save money.
Gift Shop Support
If the audio guide isn't ideal, use the saved funds for postcards or souvenirs in the gift shop.
Photography Policy
Photography is generally not allowed inside, which some visitors find outdated. Be mindful of the rules.
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection, though a quicker visit is possible in 1 hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
Audio Guide Strategy
Consider using the museum's website with your own earpiece instead of renting the audio guide to save money.
Gift Shop Support
If the audio guide isn't ideal, use the saved funds for postcards or souvenirs in the gift shop.
Photography Policy
Photography is generally not allowed inside, which some visitors find outdated. Be mindful of the rules.
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to fully appreciate the collection, though a quicker visit is possible in 1 hour.
Check Exhibit Rotations
Some key artworks may be on loan or under restoration, so check in advance if a specific piece is crucial for your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Ohara Museum of Art is praised for its significant collection of Western and Japanese art, including works by Monet and El Greco, set within the charming Bikan Historical Quarter. However, some visitors find the 2000 yen entrance fee steep, and the strict no-photography policy is a common point of criticism.
"Highly recommended, but note the Annex is still under construction.
2000 yen is too expensive. You can choose to pay 600 for audio guide (option to use their website with your own earpiece, instead of their equipment).
I’m sorry for doing this but go to guide(.)ohara(.)or(.)jp and use the money for the guide in the gift shop instead.
I think the guide is good, but the sequence is all jumbled up and many of the art listed in the audio guide was not on display. A large large majority of the artwork do not have any associated audio guide for it. I think the arrangement of the artwork could be much better and integrate more with the audio guide.
I believe in supporting the gallery as much as possible but paying money to listen to audio recordings that are not even properly sequenced is dumb. It’s not immersive at all. I thought audio guide is supposed to function as if there is a guide following you around and describing the artworks to you. So yeah, just spend more money in their gift shop and support the museum okay :) they have pretty nice postcards.
Recommended to spend 1.5 to 2 hrs to slowly view each artwork and listen to the audio guide. But if you rush, you can probably finish the tour in 1 hr.
The Hiroshima Museum of Art was more enjoyable :)"
Mei Mei Tay
"I quite liked the collection, not vast but curated and you also get to see the asian and china museums. At 2000 yen with no senior discount its twice as expensive as larger collections in the Ueno park area (Tokyo) and also no photos allowed which is daft. Took some any way, sue me."
Steve Rogers
"No photos is obsolete. Nobody uses flash, so it's not to protect the artwork; it is exclusively to sell items in the gift shop. The marketing benefit of allowing photos vs the sales of postcards has been proven years ago, but Ohara hasn't yet caught on. My favorite work there was not available as a print."
Stuart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Shin-Osaka Station to Okayama Station (approx. 45-60 minutes), then transfer to a local JR train on the JR Seto-Ohashi Line to Kurashiki Station (approx. 15 minutes). The museum is a pleasant walk or short taxi ride from Kurashiki Station.
Yes, Kurashiki is well-connected by train. It's a popular day trip destination from cities like Osaka and Hiroshima, making it accessible for many travelers exploring Japan.
The historic Bikan district, where the museum is located, is best explored on foot. You can also enjoy boat rides along the canal.
Yes, there are several parking lots available in the vicinity of the Bikan Historical Quarter, though they may charge a fee.
Absolutely! Kurashiki is a perfect day trip destination, often referred to as the 'Venice of Japan,' offering a charming escape with its canals and historic architecture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The standard entrance fee is 2000 yen. Some visitors feel this is a bit high compared to other museums in Japan.
Currently, there is no mention of senior discounts or other specific concessions, but it's always worth checking the official website for any updates.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not readily available, so it's recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the museum.
The museum typically opens around 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM, with last admission usually at 4:30 PM. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current hours.
Some reviews mention that the Annex may still be under construction, so it's best to confirm its accessibility before your visit.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
To fully appreciate the collection and use the audio guide, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. However, you can complete a quicker tour in about 1 hour if you're pressed for time.
No, photography is generally not permitted inside the museum. This policy is a point of contention for some visitors who feel it's outdated.
Opinions are mixed. Some find it helpful but poorly sequenced, while others suggest using the museum's website with your own device to save money and support the gift shop instead.
Highlights include works by El Greco, Monet's Water Lilies, and a strong collection of modern Japanese paintings.
Yes, besides the Ohara Museum of Art, the area features other smaller museums and galleries, including the Momotaro Karakuri Museum.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The Bikan Historical Quarter offers numerous charming cafes and restaurants serving local specialties and international cuisine.
The museum gift shop offers a selection of items, including postcards featuring famous artworks. Some visitors recommend purchasing here to support the museum.
There are no dining facilities within the museum itself, but plenty of options are available in the surrounding historical district.
Kurashiki is known for its historical charm, and you can find local sweets and regional dishes in the restaurants and cafes around the canal.
Beyond the museum shop, explore the boutiques and craft stores in the Bikan district for unique local crafts and souvenirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Momotaro Karakuri Museum is also a great interactive stop that kids will enjoy, bringing a beloved Japanese folktale to life with mechanical displays. When visiting the Ohara Museum, consider focusing on the more visually striking pieces or the sculpture garden. If the entrance fee is a concern, you might opt for a shorter visit or prioritize exploring the charming streets and shops of the Bikan district, which offers a more universally engaging experience for all ages. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options might be more suited for leisurely meals rather than quick family stops.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Be prepared for the museum's photography policy, which prohibits internal photos, and consider the entrance fee in relation to the collection's size. Some visitors suggest using the audio guide's website with your own device to save money, allowing more budget for the museum's gift shop, which offers prints and other art-related souvenirs.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Many charming cafes and local eateries in the Bikan district offer more affordable dining options compared to upscale restaurants. Look for local specialties or set meals. The canal boat rides are also a relatively inexpensive way to experience the charm of Kurashiki.
Prioritize which attractions offer the best value for your budget, perhaps choosing between the museum and other paid activities in the area. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ohara Museum of Art: A Cultural Gem
The museum's architecture itself is noteworthy, blending Western and Japanese styles. The main building, designed in a neoclassical style, provides an elegant setting for the art. Beyond the main collection, the museum complex also includes an Asian Art Museum and a Chinese Art Museum, offering a broader cultural perspective. Despite its relatively compact size, the curated nature of the collection ensures a rich and engaging experience for art enthusiasts.
While the museum is highly recommended for its collection, some visitors note that certain prized artworks, like an El Greco, might be on loan or undergoing restoration, impacting the full experience. The entrance fee of 2000 yen is also a point of discussion, with some finding it high for the number of displayed pieces, especially when compared to larger national museums. However, many agree that supporting such a historically significant private institution through admission and gift shop purchases is worthwhile.
Exploring Kurashiki's Bikan Historical Quarter
Strolling through the Bikan district is an experience in itself. You can take a leisurely boat ride along the canal, browse through charming boutiques selling local crafts and souvenirs, and stop at quaint cafes and restaurants. The atmosphere is incredibly serene, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds thin out. The preserved architecture, with its dark wooden beams and tiled roofs, creates a unique and photogenic landscape.
+1Beyond the Ohara Museum, the quarter boasts other attractions like the Momotaro Karakuri Museum, which offers a fun, interactive experience related to the famous Japanese folktale. The area is perfect for a relaxed day trip, allowing you to soak in the historical ambiance, enjoy local delicacies, and discover hidden artistic gems. It's a highly recommended stop for those seeking a more tranquil and culturally rich experience in Japan.
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