OHARA HOUSE KATALYZER

“OHARA HOUSE KATALYZER” is the former residence of the Ohara family, who made significant contributions to the development of Kurashiki.
Construction began in 1795, during the late Edo period, and after several expansions, the residence assumed its present form by the mid-Meiji period.
During the Edo period, the Ohara family was involved in businesses such as serving as intermediaries in cotton yarn trade and dealing in rice. In the Meiji era, they went on to establish a number of enterprises, including Kurashiki Spinning, Kurashiki Bank, and Kurashiki Central Hospital.
In addition to the main house, the estate includes eight storehouses and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Notable features include traditional architectural elements such as Kurashiki-style windows, latticework, and white plaster walls.
The Japanese garden, viewed from the detached guest quarters, is also particularly beautiful.
The name “KATALYZER” is derived from the English word “catalyst.” As the name suggests, the facility is not merely a historical museum; its exhibitions are designed to offer visitors new perspectives through the history and philosophy of the Ohara family.
In addition, it provides educational programs for schools and businesses, serving as a local hub for learning. Going beyond the role of a typical tourist attraction, it has become a dynamic cultural facility.