Interview
Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN, where you can encounter Okayama's art and food culture.
We spoke with the public relations representative of Kurakojo Cultural Salon about its establishment and thoughts.
The Establishment of Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN
Can you tell us about the establishment of Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN?
Public Relations Representative
The owner’s father purchased this land about 40 years ago.
It remained untouched for a while, but nearly 20 years ago, the owner thought about building a museum where people could experience the beauty of the region.
A foundation was established for the museum, and to attract people to this location, we decided to create "Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN."
So, the plan for Kibibi Museum came first?
Public Relations Representative
That's right.
In the "Phase 1 construction" completed in 2015, a two-story wooden building with a parlor and restaurant was built, and the bamboo grove was maintained, while Kibibi Museum was completed in "Phase 2 construction."
However, the contents of Phase 2 construction were planned from the beginning.
In the Bikan Historical Area, land and buildings cannot be freely constructed by the owners.
Kurashiki City has a central urban revitalization plan, and development is being carried out in accordance with that plan.
Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN and Kurashiki SOLA are part of a grand project incorporated into that plan.
About the Bamboo Grove
Was the bamboo grove planned for this land?
Public Relations Representative
It was not planted to create a bamboo garden.
It seems that bamboo naturally grew on this land, possibly from roots coming from nearby bamboo.
The tree in the middle was not planted intentionally either; it grew from seeds dropped by birds.
In the past, about 1,500 bamboo stalks grew here, so thick that people could not enter, resembling a jungle.
It was said to be a well-known spot for digging bamboo shoots.
Surprisingly, there is not much green space in the Bikan Historical Area.
Since the bamboo was lush and green, we thought about designing a garden where everyone could enjoy the bamboo.
Initially, the plan was to remove all the bamboo in Phase 2 construction.
However, since visitors enjoyed the bamboo grove, we changed the plan to keep the bamboo and build the museum in a corner.
What kind of maintenance do you do for the bamboo grove?
Public Relations Representative
The roots spread rapidly, so we have to dispose of bamboo shoots that grow from pathways.
In spring, leaves fall at an incredible rate, so we have gardeners and cleaners come in about four times a month.
If we don't ensure good airflow, the bamboo will rot, so we also cut down old and damaged bamboo.
Additionally, while the roots spread, they spread in a net-like pattern like melon skin, so they are shallow.
As a result, many bamboo stalks fall or break during typhoons. We need to dispose of and maintain them at that time as well.
We prefer not to use insecticides, so we only spray a minimum amount of insect repellent to make it difficult for mosquitoes to land on the leaves.
We have replanted grass several times, but it doesn't grow well because people walk on it frequently.
Kibibi Museum and the Tea Room
How was the collection of Kibibi Museum gathered?
Public Relations Representative
The owner’s father gathered the collection with the thought of wanting to "keep local artists' works in the local area."
Then the current owner thought about making the collected works publicly available, leading to the establishment of Kibibi Museum.
Why was the tea room created?
Public Relations Representative
We had many cultural heritage tea utensils.
All tea utensils are works of art.
We wanted to hold tea ceremonies where everyone could appreciate the works, learn about their history and the artists, and then enjoy tea slowly.
We actually hold tea ceremonies, preparing something like a menu of the artworks. Everyone enjoys learning while having fun.
We also provide table and chair seating for those with foot pain.
The Parlor Fruit Komachi Born from "Omotenashi"
Why was the parlor created?
Public Relations Representative
It started from the owner of Kurakojo Cultural Salon's spirit of hospitality.
Visitors to Okayama during the winter would ask, "Do you have white peaches?"
To allow such visitors to taste seasonal white peaches, the chef developed white peach soft serve ice cream over two years.
It contains over 45 percent of seasonal juice from locally grown white peaches.
In fact, many "ordinary" soft serve ice creams in the world do not contain a single drop of fruit juice.
The soft serve ice cream at Parlor Fruit Komachi retains the fragrance and flavor of biting into fruit, without using any coloring or flavoring.
There are some trade secrets, so it's frustrating that I can't share everything I want to promote.
Even if someone visits Kurashiki during the off-season, I wanted them to know, "This is how delicious Shimizu white peaches are," which is why we started this.
The Wishes Behind the Name "Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN"
Can you tell us the origin of the name "Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN"?
Public Relations Representative
With the aim of creating a stay-type tourism experience in Kurashiki, we wanted to make it a place where adults can go out to enjoy the evening.
Although it is not fully realized yet, we are focusing on lighting and other aspects to enhance the evening experience.
We hope to create a nice place where tourists and local residents can take a stroll after dinner.
I would be happy if visitors could feel quality enjoyment, relaxation, and "repose."
Enjoy Quality Time at "Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN"
Soft serve ice cream born from a spirit of hospitality, Italian cuisine utilizing local ingredients, artworks collected with consideration for the region, and a beautiful bamboo grove garden.
A space where adults can spend time calmly is attractive both day and night, and it is a warm place that thinks of the community and its people.
In the future, please check for information on music events, tea ceremonies, and lectures in the hall.
You will be able to experience the culture and beauty of Kibi and spend a fulfilling time.
Data on Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN
| Name | Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN |
|---|---|
| Location | 1-4-22 Chuo, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-425-7733 |
| Parking | None |
| Opening Hours | Varies by store |
| Closed | Varies by store |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Website | Kurashiki Yoimachi GARDEN |
