To all the students on a school trip visiting the Bikan Historical Area for the first time!
Do you think that the Bikan Historical Area is not enjoyable for young people?
That is not the case!
The Bikan Historical Area is filled with many attractions that we young people can also appreciate.
In this article, students from our local high school, Okayama Prefectural Kurashiki Commercial High School, will introduce the highlights so that you can fully enjoy the Bikan Historical Area.
This article is a contribution by students from the Okayama Prefectural Kurashiki Commercial High School's research project "Exploring Local Economy." It has been re-edited and published by the Haretoco General Incorporated Association.
Must-See Spot in the Bikan Historical Area: Ohara Museum of Art
The must-see spot in the Bikan Historical Area is the Ohara Museum of Art.
In the past, you could visit on a whim, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as of November 2020, the number of visitors is limited by time slots, making it difficult to leisurely appreciate the artworks during a short school trip.
However, the Ohara Museum of Art has various attractions beyond the artworks.
▼ Here are four key points.
- Red Warehouse
- Water Lilies
- Round Window
- Imabashi Bridge
First, let's look at the first point.
Pay attention to the lamp in front of the Ohara Museum of Art and the round window.
Photography is prohibited inside the Ohara Museum of Art.
The photo of the round window was taken with permission.
Next, the second point.
The water lily (suiren) is said to be inspired by Monet's "Water Lilies," referred to as "a flower that blooms in the morning and wilts at night."
It looks as if it is alive, so pay attention to the surface of the lake.
The third point is, a red warehouse in a town of white walls?!
Inside the Craft Museum, there is a red warehouse displaying works by Keisuke Serizawa.
Normally, you can stroll freely around the grounds of the Ohara Museum of Art.
For this reason, the Craft Museum and the water lilies can be seen without entering, but currently, due to visitor restrictions, only those who enter can see them.
Finally, the last point is the bridge in front of the Ohara Museum of Art.
It is called "Imabashi."
When you come to the Bikan Historical Area on a school trip, it often becomes a "meeting place," and you may stand there casually, but take a good look.
In 1926 (Taisho 15), when the then Crown Prince (later Emperor Showa) visited, the old wooden bridge was replaced with a magnificent one funded by Ohara Magosaburo.
It was designed by the painter Kojima Torajiro.
The view of the Kurashiki River and the boats moving along the river from Imabashi is an unchanging scene of the Bikan Historical Area.
To the north of the Ohara Museum of Art, there is a museum shop with various products that are exciting to explore.
Even if you cannot enter the Ohara Museum of Art, the museum shop is freely accessible.
There are also items that can only be obtained here.
| Address | 1-1-15 Chuo, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-422-0005 |
| Website | Ohara Museum of Art |
Enjoying Masking Tape "TANE"
TANE is a store that offers a full range of masking tapes "mt" (M.T.) that are popular as souvenirs and gifts from Kurashiki.
Inside the store, there is a Mini Cooper as a landmark.
TANE was born from the owner's desire to create something characteristic of Kurashiki, by renovating their home.
The masking tape "mt" sold here is a product that originated in Kurashiki.
TANE is also developing original masking tapes.
In fact, it is manufactured and sold by KAMOI KAKOSHI CO., LTD., which has its headquarters in Kurashiki.
The selection is an impressive approximately 1,000 types. The popular products are as follows.
【Popular Product Ranking】
- Denim Pattern (As of November 2020, Denim No.3 is in production, to be released in December)
- Shelf Pattern
- Momotaro Pattern
Additionally, you can experience decorating a storage box specifically for mt (mt box).
The storage box can be taken home as a souvenir, making it very popular among foreign tourists.
Through the experience, you can try out tapes you were curious about purchasing or those you were hesitant about because they were slightly different from your preferences, which is also appealing.
I asked the staff the following questions.
Q. How many people visit the store in a day?
In 2019, about 300 to 400 customers visited.
Q. Do you have any tips for stylish decoration?
It is important to coordinate colors and patterns for a unified look. I think it would also be cute to align themes with collaboration products.
Q. What are some creative ideas for store displays?
We focus on the visibility of patterns in our displays. We place popular items and those we want to sell in the most noticeable spots.
Q. What products do you recommend for school trip students and high school students?
The original tape from TANE in the Bikan Historical Area.
Q. What challenges have you faced?
For the first three years, products did not sell well, but after being featured on a television program by Matsuko Deluxe, many people became aware of us, and the variety of products increased.
TANE is a store with an exterior characteristic of the Bikan Historical Area, and the staff were very kind.
You can feel the owner's and staff's passion and love for masking tape.
Customers of all ages, from the elderly to children, seemed to enjoy choosing masking tape, making it a store loved by people of all ages.
When you visit Kurashiki, be sure to stop by.
| Address | 5-12 Honmachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-486-3618 |
| Website | -TANE- Kurashiki Bikan Historical Area Masking Tape "mt" Specialty Store |
Make your own candle at "Candle Fairy"
For those who love crafting and making things, I recommend "Candle Fairy," where you can make your own candles.
There are four courses for handmade candles: A to D, and Course D (2,000 yen including tax) allows you to create a completely original design.
We made candles in "Course D."
The wax softens with body heat, making it easy to change its shape.
If you have a design in mind, Course D allows for complete freedom, while Courses A to C are recommended if you do not have a specific design.
Of course, you can take home the candles you made.
In addition to handmade candles, you can also purchase aroma candles and candle stands.
The owner, Inoue, shared that he wants to give back to society and uplift many people, especially those who are withdrawn, which led him to establish "Candle Fairy."
He hopes to eventually entrust the management to someone who was once withdrawn.
Although "Candle Fairy" is a bit away from the center of the Bikan Historical Area, it is the only place where you can experience making candles.
I believe that crafting together in a friendly atmosphere will create lasting memories.
| Address | 3-18-6 Achi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-454-4505 |
| Website | Candle Fairy |
Fluffy Taiyaki made by a former baker at "Taiyaki Honpo"
Across from Candle Fairy, there is "Taiyaki Honpo".
The manager of "Taiyaki Honpo" is Ono Michiyuki.
After retiring, he started a taiyaki shop to keep active.
There are mainly 4 types of taiyaki.
- Taiyaki with mochi
- Cream taiyaki
- Apple apple taiyaki
- Seasonal taiyaki
"Taiyaki with mochi" is the signature menu and the most popular.
Filled with sweet red bean paste and mochi, this taiyaki was created because it was not found in various regions' taiyaki shops.
You can enjoy the taste of both mochi and sweet red bean paste at the same time.
"Cream taiyaki" has fluffy dough filled with rich custard cream all the way to the tail.
For those who are not fond of red bean paste, cream taiyaki is recommended.
"Apple apple taiyaki" is a type of taiyaki that is not often heard of.
Hearing that "young people tend to like apple pie," the idea of combining taiyaki and apple was conceived, and it has since become a standard menu item.
The aroma of cinnamon and the crispy texture of the apple make it enjoyable, like an apple pie taiyaki.
"Chestnut an taiyaki" was a seasonal limited menu item available during the interview in October 2020.
It features a hearty chestnut filling that is appealing.
The chestnut filling is made by mashing sweet chestnuts and Tianjin sweet chestnuts.
The seasonal taiyaki varies by season as follows.
| Season (Month) | Product Name |
|---|---|
| March-April | Sakura an (with cherry leaves) |
| May-June | Green tea an (sencha) |
| July-August | Amatsu an |
| September-November | Chestnut an (with Tianjin sweet chestnuts) |
| December-February | Sweet potato an |
To prevent a decline in physical strength, manager Ono says he works daily to stay healthy.
The reason he decided to open a taiyaki shop is that "I originally worked as a baker, so I also have experience in making Western sweets. I thought I would use that experience to make taiyaki."
Please try the "fluffy taiyaki" made by a former baker.
| Address | 3-22-25 Achi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-422-1721 |
| Website | None |
When You're Hungry, Try "Teuchi Udon Oonishi"
When walking around the town, you get hungry, right?
If you want something hearty rather than a light snack at a café, how about "udon"?
"Teuchi Udon Oonishi" is a long-established udon shop that was founded in 1973.
Originally a car dealership, it changed to an udon shop due to the increase in tourists following the opening of the Sanyo Shinkansen in Okayama.
Since it has been in business before the Bikan Historical Area became a popular tourist destination, it is characterized by having many local regular customers as well as tourists.
By the way, the origin of the name "Teuchi Udon Oonishi" is Mr. Oonishi's surname. It seems they thought "hiragana would be more approachable."
Upon entering the shop, a signboard maneki-neko welcomed me.
The interior is based on wooden materials, and various works by famous artists are displayed.
You can enjoy the atmosphere while waiting for your udon to be served.
A recommended menu for school trip students is the "Setouchi Oroshi Lemon Udon (850 yen including tax)."
The dashi made from kelp from Hokkaido and bonito flakes from Kagoshima, combined with the acidity of lemon, is delicious.
By the way, you can choose between hot and cold, but the hot version is recommended as it enhances the flavor of the dashi.
The shop's recommendation is the "Bokke, Umee - Plum Series," which was just created in August 2020.
The refreshing plum suzushiro udon (with grated daikon) is particularly recommended.
Since it is a udon shop, I think it is easy for students to drop by.
If you get hungry, be sure to stop by.
| Address | 5-29 Honmachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-422-8134 |
| Website | Official Instagram |
Takeout While Walking Around the Town: "YAMAU Coffee Stand"
If you're looking to stroll through the Bikan Historical Area with a drink in hand, how about “YAMAU coffee stand”?
Located in the heart of the Bikan Historical Area, it is open from 9 AM to 6 PM, so it is almost always open during school trips.
The exterior is stylish and traditional, making it an easy place for anyone to stop by.
Inside, there aren't many chairs, and takeout is the main focus. “The concept of YAMAU coffee stand is to have customers enjoy sightseeing in the Bikan Historical Area with a cup in hand,” said the owner, Okamoto.
The menu mainly features “coffee,” as the name of the shop suggests.
For students and women who are not fond of coffee, there are also matcha lattes and melon cream sodas available.
When we visited for the interview, there was also “lemon squash” on the menu.
One of the recommendations at “YAMAU coffee stand” is the “latte art.”
While it may not be available for some menu items like matcha lattes, it can be done for lattes and espressos.
Ice drinks are served in plastic containers, while hot drinks are served in paper cups, and many customers post their cups on Instagram.
It’s a casual place to stop by when you want to take a break, making it a great recommendation for students on school trips.
| Address | 5-4 Honmachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | None |
| Website | Official Instagram of YAMAU coffee stand |
A Specialty Shop Enjoyable Even for Those Who Dislike Coffee: “kobacoffee”
If you want to enjoy coffee in a relaxed atmosphere rather than takeout, how about “kobacoffee”?
“kobacoffee” is a specialty shop for self-roasted coffee.
The coffee menu is extensive, and you can choose not only the type of beans but also the brewing method.
A recommended item for high school students is the “cream soda.” There are 8 varieties available:
- Grape
- Lemon
- Strawberry
- Sky Blue
- Peach
- Orange
- Melon
- Coffee
Under the glass is colorful jelly, topped with soda, and finally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
The interior has a calm atmosphere.
There are also terrace seats in the courtyard, so it would be nice to enjoy coffee or dessert while feeling the refreshing breeze.
We spoke with the owner, Kobayashi.
Q. What inspired you to start the business?
I wanted to run a café since I was in my third year of high school.
At first, I worked in the service industry and at cafés, but I had a strong desire to be independent, so I decided to start my own shop.
Q. What are the challenges and joys of your work?
It’s tough to have to make decisions and take responsibility for them, as well as to satisfy the employees.
However, there is also the advantage of being able to decide everything about the menu and more.
I would be happy if people could appreciate the deliciousness of coffee.
Q. What do you think is great about the Bikan Historical Area?
The town has a row of old buildings, which is soothing to the heart.
Q. What are the unique features of your shop?
The dishes and cups used in the shop are made by artisans.
I also make coasters from scraps of jeans that I collect myself.
Q. What age group are your customers?
There are many coffee-loving women in their 30s and 40s.
The ratio of local customers to tourists is about “6:4.”
There are probably many regular customers at the counter.
Q. What is your pride and joy?
Everything.
Even for those who dislike coffee, there are plenty of other menu options, and they might find they can enjoy our coffee.
We can also provide unique blends, so please feel free to consult with us.
“kobacoffee” brews roasted beans using various equipment.
In the charming atmosphere of the Bikan Historical Area, take your time and enjoy your coffee.
| Address | 5-27 Honmachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-425-0050 |
| Website | kobacoffee |
A Little Break at the Old House Cafe "Yume Kukan Hashimaya"
If you get a little tired from walking around the city, how about taking a break at an old house cafe?
"Yume Kukan Hashimaya" is a cafe space that was created by renovating a rice storehouse, triggered by the registration of the "Kusudo House" as a tangible cultural property in 1996.
The cafe space has a grand piano permanently installed, and events such as mini concerts and live performances are also held.
Additionally, the adjacent room serves as a gallery, where visitors can casually enjoy the exhibits during the exhibition period.
In a warm wooden environment, it operates as a place where "you can share enjoyable moments while having tea."
There are two recommended menu items.
◆ Frozen Maruto Smoothie (800 yen)
This is a matcha smoothie with a Japanese twist, made using the red bean paste from the long-established "Fujito Manju" in Kurashiki.
This product is a takeout item created for high school students and school trip participants.
The slightly bitter Kyoto matcha pairs well with the sweet red bean paste from Fujito Manju, making it enjoyable for adults as well.
◆ Special Hand-Kneaded Hamburger Curry (1,500 yen)
This is a special curry topped with a juicy hamburger.
What do you think the "red item that looks like a spice" on top of the rice is?
The answer is "tomato skin."
Since it seems wasteful to throw away the skin, they have arranged it to be dried and sprinkled on the curry.
The owner, Mr. Kusudo, expressed, "I want to connect with customers slowly while having tea."
Four years ago, in 2016, he took over "Yume Kukan Hashimaya" due to a generational change.
He mentioned that the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 has made it difficult due to a decrease in tourists, but the "thank you" from customers brings him joy.
It was also impressive to hear him speak of his sense of responsibility to "pass it on to the next generation."
Yume Kukan Hashimaya is located in the area called "Higashimachi," which is a little away from the center of the Bikan Historical Area.
How about visiting this slightly more adult space where you can enjoy "art, music × cafe"?
| Address | 1-20 Higashimachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-451-1040 |
| Website | Yume Kukan Hashimaya |
If you want to enjoy the fruit kingdom of Okayama, visit "Parlor Kudamonokomachi"
When you think of Okayama, you think of fruit.
Okayama Prefecture, known for its production of grapes, peaches, and other fruits, is also called the "Fruit Kingdom."
"Parlor Kudamonokomachi" is a "fruit parlor & cafe" where you can enjoy fruits produced in the Fruit Kingdom of Okayama.
First, I would like to introduce the "Original Soft Serve Ice Cream (no flavoring or additives)."
This soft serve ice cream has been researched so that you can enjoy Okayama's white peaches all year round. It is made by squeezing the juice of Shimizu white peach, known as the "Queen of White Peaches," and mixing it into the soft serve ice cream.
There are also the following menu items.
| Name | Price (including tax) |
|---|---|
| Seasonal Premium Parfait | 1,500 yen~ |
| Pancakes with Seasonal Fruits | 1,000 yen |
| Today's Fruit Parfait ※A parfait using the original soft serve ice cream and more than seven types of fruits mainly from Okayama Prefecture | 1,000 yen~ |
The staff's uniforms are also impressive.
They are designed in a "Taisho Roman style," featuring an apron that flutters and a modern take on traditional clothing.
Additionally, behind the shop, there is a bamboo grove garden for you to feel "relaxed."
It is called "Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN," where the naturally growing bamboo thicket has been maintained and transformed into a valuable green space in the Bikan Historical Area.
When the bamboo sways under the blue sky during the day, it is very soothing.
From sunset until 10:30 PM, it is illuminated, and you can stroll freely during opening hours (free of charge).
I asked the staff some questions.
Q. Why did you choose this type of uniform?
To let people feel the culture of historic Kurashiki, we designed the uniform with a focus on the Taisho Roman style.
Q. Where do you source your fruits from?
We are committed to local production for local consumption and sometimes source directly from farmers.
Q. What challenges do you face in running the shop?
The lack of definitive answers.
Since every customer has different preferences, I try to do what I think is right to satisfy everyone.
At "Parlor Kudamonokomachi," you can enjoy exceptional fruits that you can only taste here.
I think fruit lovers will be thrilled, so please make sure to visit.
| Address | 1-4-22 Chuo, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, 1st floor of Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN East Building |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 086-425-7733 |
| Website | Parlor Kudamonokomachi |
Conclusion
Did you enjoy the Bikan Historical Area?
In the Bikan Historical Area, there are many souvenirs and foods that you can only buy here.
Whether you are a tourist or a local, you should be able to find a place you want to visit.
Finally, let me introduce our "recommended spot."
That is the "Bikan Historical Area at night."
It has a different charm compared to the noisy daytime filled with tourists. However, it is unlikely that students on a school trip will visit the Bikan Historical Area at night.
Students on a school trip, please come back and enjoy it slowly someday.
Come back to the Bikan Historical Area!
