Ohashi House

The Ohashi Residence (大橋家住宅, Ōhashi-ke Jūtaku) offers a rare glimpse into the lifestyle of Kurashiki's most prominent merchant family. Built in 1796, this elegant machiya (traditional town house) features tatami-floored rooms, sliding doors, and beautifully decorated spaces for entertaining guests. Visitors can also explore the private living quarters, storage rooms, and a traditional kitchen, all reflecting the refined lifestyle of the Ohashi family.

Unlike typical machiya, the Ohashi Residence stands apart with a front gate and open courtyard—an architectural style usually reserved for samurai homes. This unique design symbolizes the family's local influence during the Edo Period, when merchants were considered the lowest social class. Today, the residence remains a testament to their exceptional status and cultural legacy.