The Greatest Contributor to Kurashiki's Development

Magosaburou Ohara is widely recognized as the primary driving force behind the development of Kurashiki. In the early 20th century, he inherited a spinning company and transformed it into a key player in Kurashiki's growth. Simultaneously, Ohara engaged in numerous social and cultural initiatives.

The spinning factory was constructed on the grounds of the Edo shogunate's magistrate office, now transformed into the popular tourist facility known as Kurashiki Ivy Square, featuring a hotel.

In 1923, Ohara established a cutting-edge hospital for his employees, later opening its doors to the public. The building prominently featured in the foreground of the photograph served as the hospital at that time.

In 1930, Ohara further solidified his legacy by founding the Ohara Art Museum. This institution showcased the art collection of the Western painter Kojima Torajiro, whom Ohara had supported. Notably, this museum marked Japan's inaugural private Western art museum.

Photo : ©Okayama Prefectural Tourism Federation, Kurashiki Sightseeing web