Kurashiki Bikan Histolical Quarter

[ The regional understanding in Kurashiki, Okayama prefecture ]

"Kurashiki" as a tourist destination typically refers to the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, encompassing three historical periodization elements: the traditional townscape of the Edo period (17th–19th century; Tokugawa Shogun Era), the industrial heritage of the Modern Era (19th–20th century), and the tourism resources of the Contemporary Era (20th–21st century).

In the early Edo period (17th～19th century), the Tokugawa shogunate established a magistrate's office in Kurashiki and collect annual rice tax. The rice was collected using water transportation system that uses river routes and coastal routes. So a lot of warehouses were built there and they have remain still now. 

At the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate era, Japan initiated extensive trade with foreign countries. Subsequently, significant knowledge and technology were imported from Western nations, leading to a profound transformation in industry and culture, commonly referred to as Japan's "Industrial Revolution." For this reason, many Western-style buildings were constructed during the Meiji and Taisho periods (1869-1926). The Kurashiki Town Hall, now serving as the tourist information center, stands as a representative example of this era, showcasing the architectural influence of Western designs that became prevalent in Japan during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a blend of traditional buildings from the Edo period and Western-style structures from the Meiji and Taisho periods, creating a unique and captivating landscape. Recognized for its cultural significance, it was designated as a group of important traditional buildings by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in 1979, and continues to attract numerous tourists today.

Photo : ©Okayama Prefectural Tourism Federation