Interview with Deputy Director Tomohiro Fujitani
We spoke with Deputy Director Tomohiro Fujitani about the establishment, charm, and exhibits of "Ohara House Katalyzer."
This interview features content from the initial coverage conducted in November 2018.
Please tell us the reason for opening the former Ohara family residence, which had hardly been made public until now, as "Ohara House Katalyzer."
Fujitani
It comes from the desire to let people know about Kurashiki and the Ohara family.
For example, not many people in Kurashiki know that the first president of Chugoku Bank was Ohara Magosaburo.
However, Ohara Kenichiro, the ninth head of the Ohara family, has been thinking of making it a place that can be called a "hall of knowledge," rather than just a simple memorial museum.
To create a facility for learning, we also hold seminars for teachers called "Kurashiki Mirai K Juku."
The director of our facility has served as a high school principal and is currently a specially appointed professor at Okayama University, where he has been practicing education related to solving local issues.
It serves not only as a tourist spot but also as a cultural and educational venue.
What is the charm of Ohara House Katalyzer for tourists?
Fujitani
It is the atmosphere of Kurashiki condensed in one place. The authentic white walls and storehouses of Kurashiki that have not been remodeled remain.
Some visitors have even said, "I don't need to walk outside anymore; I'm satisfied with just Ohara Katalyzer," as they can fully enjoy the essence of Kurashiki.
If you just want a quick look, it takes about 30 minutes, so even those in a hurry can stop by. For those who can take their time, matcha in the tatami room is popular.
Every corner is picturesque, and there are no areas where photography is prohibited. You are sure to take interesting photos.
Exhibits related to the Ohara family
Here are some of the exhibits from the Ohara family's collection that caught our attention during our conversation with Fujitani.
Relief depicting the businesses established or deeply involved by the seventh head of the Ohara family, Ohara Magosaburo
Fujitani
This relief was created by architect Shizutaro Urabe. It expresses Magosaburo's achievements and is arranged as follows from the right:
- Okayama Orphanage
- Kurashiki Sunday Lectures
- KURABO INDUSTRIES LTD.
- Ohara Agricultural Research Institute
- Ohara Social Problems Research Institute
- Labor Science Research Institute
- Kurashiki Central Hospital
- Mingei Movement
- Kurashiki Silk Textile Co., Ltd.
- Ohara Museum of Art
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Fujitani
Do you see the name "Yoshio Obayashi" written on the tea bowl to the right?
It is a signature from people who participated in the tea ceremony. The following names can be seen:
- Yoshio Obayashi, the second president of the major general construction company Obayashi Corporation
- Souzui Kanazawa, the head of the Urasenke school
- Individuals whose identities are difficult to ascertain, such as "Tane" and "Tomi"
Custom-made audio by audio critic Shigemi Takajou
Fujitani
This was made by Shigemi Takajou at the request of Ohara Soichiro. It is currently under repair and will soon be available for listening here.
Message from Deputy Director Tomohiro Fujitani
Finally, could you give a message to those visiting Ohara House Katalyzer?
Fujitani
The building and garden are very impressive. By learning about the Ohara family, you can gain a better understanding of Kurashiki.
Please feel free to visit. I believe you will enjoy it.
Articles about Ohara House Katalyzer
Data of Ohara House Katalyzer
| Name | Ohara House Katalyzer |
|---|---|
| Location | 1-2-1 Chuo, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-434-6277 |
| Parking | None |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM * Last admission is until 4:30 PM * Café is open until 4:30 PM * Matcha is available from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM |
| Closed Days | Monday Closed during year-end and New Year holidays * Open on public holidays and substitute holidays |
| Admission Fee (including tax) | [General] Adults: 500 yen High school students and below: 400 yen * Group rates available for 20 or more people Preschool children: Free |
| Payment Methods |
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| Reservation | Available |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking |
| Restroom | Western-style toilet |
| Website | Ohara House Katalyzer |
