Understand

During the Edo period, Kurashiki was a thriving trade city, dealing in rice, sugar, and various goods with the capital, Tokyo. As time went by, the city became renowned for its textile industry. Despite the ravages of World War II, Kurashiki managed to preserve its historic charm, with the original storehouses, mills, and shops still standing strong in the Bikan Historic Area. The picturesque canal lined with weeping willows and traditional storehouses with lattice windows creates a delightful scene. At night, the canal illuminates, adding to the enchantment. Some may even call Kurashiki "the Venice of Japan." While the city surrounding the Bikan area may be modern, Kurashiki takes you back in time, allowing you to experience the way people lived and worked in old Japan, beyond just the temples they worshipped at.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing