Kurashiki Ivy Square, Kurashiki

Built in 1889 as the country's first cotton mill, Kurashiki Ivy Square has since transformed into a complex of museums, shops, and restaurants. Learn about the history of Kurashiki Bosekijo, the company that established the profitable mill building, and stop in the museum housing works by Western-style artist Kojima Torajiro, as well as some of the Egyptian and Islamic works from his own collection. Peruse artisan shops selling ceramics and other handicrafts, or take a rickshaw ride through the square. Museum-goers should be prepared for minimal English explanation regarding the exhibits. PutKurashiki Ivy Square into our Kurashiki trip planner and find out what's close by, where to stay, and where to head next.