Hayashibara Museum of Art by Rabbityama
The museum building was originally part of the Ninomaru annex of Okayama Castle and was used as a guesthouse in the Edo Period. During the Meiji Period, Lord Ikeda used it as his administrative headquarters, and it officially became a museum in 1964 at the wishes of Ichiro Hayashibara, who it is named after.Hayashibara inherited his grandfather's company, which produced starch syrup, and he expanded the company. With the wealth he gained from the company, he was able to pursue his interest in collecting artwork, and it is this collection that is displayed in the museum today.
Most of the collection dates back to the Edo Period. Anyone interested in Japanese calligraphy and scrolls should enjoy this museum. Aside from these, there are also clothing, pottery, swords, and a samurai suit among other things. The collection is large, so they do change the exhibits throughout the year.
The museum is relatively small however, the entrance fee is only 300 yen, so it's not unreasonable. It takes about 30 minutes to see, and it's closed on Mondays.
